cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the relative decay constants of 235U and 238U by multi-step CA-TIMS measurements of closed-system natural zircon samples

Abstract The U decay constants ( λ 238 U and λ 235 U) of Jaffey et al., 1971, Phys. Rev C 4, 1889–1906, are widely regarded as the “gold standard” for U–Pb geochronology and geochronology in general, given their exceptional precision and accuracy compared with all earlier U decay constant measurements and with the decay constants for all other isotopic systems used in geochronology. However, several years ago it became clear that U–Pb analytical methods had improved to the point where even these small uncertainties in the decay constants had become the limiting factor in the accuracy and precision of measured U–Pb ages of the mineral zircon. Earlier work indicates that the accepted value of λ 235 U is slightly low relative to the accepted value for λ 238 U, and the accepted value of 137.88 for the 238 U/ 235 U isotopic ratio of natural U. The present study applies detailed multi-step CA-TIMS measurements to a suite of zircon samples selected for apparent perfect concordance except for small deviations that could be explained by errors in the constants used in age calculations. Most samples were selected from a 400 Ma–560 Ma age range, a range where errors from tracer calibration uncertainties and corrections for intermediate daughter isotope disequilibrium are both low. The new measurements yield a value for λ 235 U = 0.98574 ± 0.00021 Ga − 1 . The weighted mean of this new result and two other recent results is 0.98571 ± 0.00012 Ga − 1 . Remarkably, this just overlaps the almost four-decade-old Jaffey et al. (1971) result of 0.98485 ± 0.00135 Ga − 1 within the stated errors of that study, but the new result is a full order of magnitude more precise. Thus, adoption of the new value for U–Pb geochronology is strongly recommended. Recent research also suggests the need for revision of the 238 U/ 235 U isotopic composition of natural U. If a new value for the 238 U/ 235 U isotopic ratio is adopted, the λ 235 U value can be adjusted accordingly. Errors in the 238 U/ 235 U propagate over a range of geologic ages quite differently from errors in the decay constants, so it is possible to differentiate between these two effects.
A primer on the use of modern missing-data methods in psychosomatic medicine research

Abstract: This paper summarizes recent methodologic advances related to missing data and provides an overview of two “modern” analytic options, direct maximum likelihood (DML) estimation and multiple imputation (MI). The paper begins with an overview of missing data theory, as explicated by Rubin. Brief descriptions of traditional missing data techniques are given, and DML and MI are outlined in greater detail; special attention is given to an “inclusive” analytic strategy that incorporates auxiliary variables into the analytic model. The paper concludes with an illustrative analysis using an artificial quality of life data set. Computer code for all DML and MI analyses is provided, and the inclusion of auxiliary variables is illustrated.
Microcollimated energy-dispersive x-ray diffraction apparatus for studies at megabar pressures with a synchrotron source

A new high-pressure energy-dispersive x-ray diffraction apparatus is described. Two major features distinguish this system from previous ones: the ability to collect diffraction data from small sample areas subjected to pressures over 1 Mbar and to scan across the sample. This system also has the ability to calibrate the diffraction angle without making any assumptions about the lattice spacings of the sample.
Investigating the genetic variation and structure of a native unionid mussel in the Laurentian Great Lakes following an invasion of dreissenid mussels

Despite massive population declines in the open waters of Lake St. Clair due to invasive dreissenid mussels, the St. Clair River Delta has persisted as a refuge habitat for native unionid mussels. This study was conducted to determine how Dreissena-induced population declines might have impacted the genetic population structure of native unionid species. Nine variable microsatellite markers were used to assess the genetic population structure of the Fatmucket mussel (Lampsilis siliquoidea) across 18 sites (n = 341 individuals) within the delta and four of its tributaries. Results indicate that Fatmuckets within the various bays of the St. Clair Delta and tributaries show limited genetic differentiation by geographic distance but still represent a single population with evidence of recent gene flow, little differentiation among sampling sites, relatively high allelic richness at all sites, and little evidence supporting a recent genetic bottleneck. The Fatmucket is the most common species found in the delta and poor genetic health and connectivity of this species might have indicated a dire situation for less common and imperiled species found in the same habitats. Because this did not appear to be the case, little can be assumed about other mussel species.
Perpendicular Domain Orientation in Thin Films of Polystyrene−Polylactide Diblock Copolymers

Block copolymer thin films are ideal templates for a wide range of technologies where large area patterns of nanoscale features are desired. One of the main challenges in using lamellae- and cylinder-forming block copolymers for this purpose is to induce the block copolymer domains to orient perpendicular to the film surface. We here show that perpendicular domain orientation can be easily achieved with polystyrene-b-polylactide (PS−PLA) thin films. Cylinder-forming PS−PLA films were prepared by spin-coating on a variety of substrates followed by thermal annealing. The molecular weight, film thickness, annealing temperature, and annealing time were varied. When the film thickness was larger than the repeat spacing of the bulk morphology, the domains oriented perpendicular to the surface independent of the substrate/film interface. The films were then used to prepare nanoporous templates by a combination of hydrolytic PLA degradation and oxygen reactive ion etching (O2-RIE). The template pattern was then t...
Comparison of techniques for transsphenoidal pituitary surgery.

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to compare three different techniques for transsphenoidal pituitary surgery: (1) sublabial transseptal approach with microscopic resection, (2) transnasal transs...
The effects of prevailing wage regulations on construction efficiency in British Columbia

This study examines the effect of prevailing wage legislation on the efficiency of school construction. Specifically, stochastic frontier regression and British Columbian construction data are used to measure the effect of the introduction and expansion of prevailing wage requirements on technical efficiency, or the ability of builders to obtain maximum output from available resources. Results indicate that average technical efficiency for all construction projects in the sample is 94.6%. Average efficiency for projects covered by the introductory stage of British Columbia's construction wage legislation is 86.6%. By the time of the expansion of the wage policy 17 months later, the average efficiency of covered projects increased to 99.8%. These findings suggest that the introduction of prevailing wage laws disrupted construction efficiency. However, in a relatively short period, the construction industry adjusted to wage requirements by increasing overall efficiency. A short-term decrease in construction...
Wood placement in river restoration: fact, fiction, and future direction

Despite decades of research on wood in rivers, the addition of wood as a river restoration technique remains controversial. We reviewed the literature on natural and placed wood to shed light on ar...
Carbon-13 NMR spectra of olefin-copper(I) complexes

Abstract The carbon-13 NMR spectra of olefin—copper(I) complexes are examined. The change in the chemical shift of the vinyl carbon upon coordination is compared to the change observed in the proton spectrum. The Dewar—Chatt—Duncanson model for olefin—metal bonding is used to compare chemical shift changes observed in polyolefin and monoolefin complexes. The role played by π-back donation in the relatively large upfield shifts observed in monoolefin complexes is described. The use of copper(I) triflate as a CMR shift reagent for olefins is suggested.
Light spot scanner on a gallium arsenide strip

Abstract A one dimensional monolithic array of GaAs light emitting PNPN diodes processed on a single crystal strip, intended for use as a flying spot scanner, is proposed. This will be called the Light Spot Scanner (LSS). A bright spot (ON state of the light emitting PNPN diode) shifts from one elementary diode to the next with the aid of a three-phase driving voltage. The experimental GaAs LSS consisted of 100 diode elements. The driving current was within 50–300 mA at voltages ranging from 1.2 to 1.5 volts. The effective light output of 9400 A wavelength was about 1.5 mW when driven at 50 mA. The maximum scanning speed was 3.0 × 10 5 elements/sec.
Mining academic data to improve college student retention: an open source perspective

In this paper we report ongoing research on the Open Academic Analytics Initiative (OAAI), a project aimed at increasing college student retention by performing early detection of academic risk using data mining methods. The paper describes the goals and objectives of the OAAI, and lays out a methodological framework to develop models that can be used to perform inferential queries on student performance using open source course management system data and student academic records. Preliminary results on initial model development using several data mining algorithms for classification are presented.
Intermediates in drug metabolism reactions.

(1974). Intermediates in Drug Metabolism Reactions. Drug Metabolism Reviews: Vol. 2, No. 1, pp. 33-56.
Analysis of splitters for self-collimated beams in planar photonic crystals

In this paper, we present methods for beam splitting in a planar photonic crystal, where the light is self-guided as dictated by the selfcollimation phenomenon. We present an analysis of a one-to-two and one-to-three beam splitter in a self-guiding photonic crystal lattice and validate our design and simulations with experimental results. Moreover, we present the first one-to-three splitter in a self-guiding planar photonic crystal. Additionally, we discuss the ability to tune the properties of these devices and present initial experimental results.
Paws + Cause = Pause? Memory Load and Memory Blends in Homophone Recognition

Previous research has shown that separate information sources, activated closely together in time, can induce errors suggestive of memory blends. In Experiment 1, homophones were used to induce such memory errors. In a study task, participants made relatedness judgments to word pairs that included homophones (e.g., PAWSBEAR). During this task, one group (study-similar) maintained memory loads with words that were orthographically similar to the presented homophones (e.g., JAWS). Another group (test-similar) maintained memory loads similar to those obtained for the study homophones alternate spelling (e.g., CAUSE). A third group maintained no memory load during the task. In a surprise recognition test, participants were presented both previously viewed homophones (PAWS) and nonpresented alternate spellings (PAUSE). We hypothesized that partially activated alternate spellings, in conjunction with the orthographically similar memory words, would result in the creation of blended memories. The results followed suit: The test-similar condition produced significantly elevated false alarms, relative to both the study-similar and the no-load conditions. Experiment 2 replicated these results while including memory loads to control for potential orthographic confusions. The findings are discussed in terms of multiple, episodic memories later activated as single, blended memories.
Steady state unfocused circular aperture beam patterns in nonattenuating and attenuating fluids.

Single integral approximate formulas have been derived for the axial and lateral pressure magnitudes in the beam pattern of steady state unfocused circular flat piston sources radiating into nonattenuating and attenuating fluids. The nonattenuating formulas are shown to be highly accurate at shallow beam depths if a normalized form of the beam pattern is utilized. The axial depth of the beginning of the nonattenuated beam pattern far field is found to be at 6.41Y0. It is demonstrated that the nonattenuated lateral beam profile is represented at this and deeper depths by a Jinc function directivity term. Values of α and z are found that permit the attenuated axial pressure to be represented by a plane wave multiplicative attenuation factor. This knowledge should aid in the experimental design of high accuracy attenuation measurements. The shifts in depth of the principal axial pressure maxima and minima due to fluid attenuation are derived. Single integral approximate equations for the attenuated full beam...
On the Problems of Karatepe: The Reliefs and their Context

It is a good maxim that all controversial archaeological issues should be reviewed regularly in the light of new material and/or changing perspectives; and certainly one of the most controversial issues in the history of the early first millennium B.C. in the Near East has been the dating of the reliefs and inscriptions built into the two Citadel Gates at Karatepe.The site itself, set on the west bank of the Ceyhan River in the northeast corner of Cilicia, sits on a natural hill just south of a spur of the foothills that mark the beginning of the juncture of the Taurus and Amanus mountain ranges (cf. Maps, Figs. 2, 3). It was first discovered and explored in 1946 by a Turkish team, headed by H. Th. Bossert, investigating ancient road systems of the “Neo-Hittite” period. Active field seasons were initiated at Karatepe, along with soundings at the neighbouring site of Domuztepe on the opposite bank of the Ceyhan, and were continued through the mid-1950s, since which time restoration has been in process at Karatepe under the direction of Professor Halet Cambel of Istanbul University.
“On-line voltage and dynamic security assessments and control: Recent developments and some future directions”

Certain transmission corridors around the world are being forced to carry more power than they were originally designed to carry. These difficulties, coupled with a steady increase in load demands, have forced electric power systems into being operated with technical difficulties such as degraded reliability, degraded security, and degraded power quality. In addition, such factors as increasing numbers of bulk power interchange transactions and non-utility generators, and the trend toward installing higher-output generators with lower inertia constants and higher short-circuit ratios have all compounded the problem. To a large extent, these changes have contributed to the emergence of the new types of complex behaviors observed in many power systems. In this paper, a comprehensive package for on-line voltage stability assessments and control of large-scale power systems will be presented. The tool handles the full AC nonlinear modeling of the base-case power system under a contingency list. It takes the general characteristics of power system operating environments into account and includes the effects of control devices. Many practical aspects of power system operations and characteristics are modeled in the tool; such as limits of real power generation, generator capability curve, the sequence of generator pick-up, generation participation factor, userdefined priority of employing control devices and physical limitations of control devices. The major features of the tool are the speed, accuracy, and reliability of its simulation engine. The tool can handle power system models up to 80,000 buses and has several installations in the power industry. Another tool to be presented is TEPCO-BCU, an integrated package developed under joint multi-year efforts between Tokyo Electric Power Company, Tokyo, Japan and Bigwood systems, Inc., Ithaca, NY, USA, for fast and yet exact transient stability assessment and control of large-scale power systems for on-line mode or on-line study mode, or off-line planning mode. The algorithmic methods behind TEPCO-BCU include BCU method, Group-based BCU method, BCU classifiers, improved energy function construction, and BCU-guide time domain method. To meet the on-line dynamic security assessment for large power systems, a parallel version of TEPCO-BCU, termed Parallel TEPCO-BCU has been developed. Applications of TEPCOBCU, Parallel TEPCO-BCU to real-time stability monitoring system will be described. (1 page)
Room-temperature optically-pumped GaSb quantum well based VCSEL monolithically grown on Si (100) substrate

Room-temperature optically-pumped In/sub 0.2/Ga/sub 0.8/Sb quantum well lasers on Si are reported. The defect-free monolithic epistructure growth on a Si(100) substrate is initiated by an AlSb quantum dot nucleation layer followed by an AlSb/GaSb superlattice. The 13% mismatch between the AlSb and Si lattice is accommodated by misfit dislocations and associated crystallographic undulations in the AlSb buffer. The nucleation layer and buffer are characterised by atomic force microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The lasing spectrum is characterised as a function of pump power and polarisation analysis.
Influence of the Energy Relationships of Trophic Levels and of Elements on Bioaccumulation

A concern of ecotoxicology is to predict to which trophic levels in biocenoses bioaccumulation of compounds or of elements occurs. Transformity, a measure of the energy required to produce and maintain a component or a flow resulting from an energy transformation process, may help predict bioaccumulation potential. This notion derives from two concepts. First, common substances are more likely to be processed by the biosphere. Moreover, the uptake of rare ones from the physical environment by organisms of low trophic levels makes them less unusual to organisms of high trophic levels, which may evolve a capability of processing them. Second, transformity expresses energy relationships between parts of a system. Substances that require more energy to form or concentrate are also the more unusual. The hypothesis was formulated that there is a correlation between the rarity, complexity, and energy required for concentrating a substance, and thus its transformity, and the transformity of the trophic level to which it bioaccumulates. This hypothesis was tested for a set of elements with published data on their biogeochemistry and bioaccumulation and on energy transfers between trophic levels in ecosystems. The transformities of the elements were calculated from the energy required by the biosphere for maintaining a difference in concentration compared to its physical environment. Transformities of corresponding trophic levels were calculated from the energy driving the energy flows. There was a significant rank correlation between the transformity of elements and that of trophic levels. This may be an important generalization in ecotoxicology because it may lead to the possibility of predicting bioaccumulation tendency.
Sexual experience changes sex hormones but not hypothalamic steroid hormone receptor expression in young and middle-aged male rats.

Testosterone is well known to regulate sexual behavior in males, but this is dependent upon prior sexual experience. Aging is associated with decreased libido and changes in testosterone, but the role of experience in these age-related processes has not been systematically studied. We examined effects of age and sexual experience on serum hormones (total testosterone, free testosterone, estradiol, LH) and on numbers of androgen receptor (AR) and estrogen receptor α (ERα) immunoreactive cells in the hypothalamus. Extensive sexual experience was given to male rats at 4 months of age. Rats were euthanized at either 4 months (young) or 12 months (middle-aged (MA)). Comparable sexually naive male rats were handled and placed into the testing arena but did not receive any sexual experience. Thus, we had four groups: young-naive, young-experienced, MA-naive and MA-experienced. Serum hormone levels were assayed, and numbers of AR and ERα cells were quantified stereologically in the medial preoptic nucleus (MPN) and the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (AVPV). Sexually experienced males had significantly elevated serum testosterone and free testosterone in both age groups. Both total and free testosterone were higher, and estradiol lower, in middle-aged than young rats. Experience did not alter either AR or ERα expression in the preoptic brain regions studied. Aging was associated with increased expression of AR, but no change in ERα. These results show that sexual experience can induce short-term and long-term alterations in serum hormones but these effects are not manifested upon their receptors in the hypothalamus.
Factors affecting the relative stability of a series of iminium cation stereoisomers

Abstract The role of three structural variables on the stability of simple iminium cations has been examined via molecular orbital calculations. In general, the more stable conformation for the hydroxyl substituent is axial, and the more stable geometry for each of the two double bonds is E. These conclusions apply also to more complex iminium cations derived from acyl pyrrolidines that could be precursors for the aza-Cope rearrangement – Mannich cyclization reaction. For these systems, molecular orbital calculations are also used to determine the effect of pyrrolidine substituent steric bulk on the relative stability of the cations. Results indicate that larger groups favor the E geometry of the iminium cation. This holds true for either geometry (E or Z) of the second double bond. For all substituent groups except hydrogen, the E geometry of both double bonds leads to the most stable isomers. When both double bonds are in the E geometry, the axial position for the OR substituent is preferred for all substituents but R = phenyl.
FINAL STATES WITH THREE CHARGED PARTICLES AND A VISIBLE anti K$sup 0$ FROM K$sup -$d INTERACTIONS AT 4.5 GeV/c

Abstract We report on a study of the interactions of 4.48 GeV/ c K − mesons on neutrons. The 372 000 picture exposure was taken in the Argonne National Laboratory 30 inch deuterium-filled bubble chamber. K 0 final states from the three-or four-prong-plus-vee topologies are discussed. The final states investigated include (1) K − n → p π − π − K 0 , (2) K − n → p π − π − K 0 π 0 , (3) K − n → π + π − π − K 0 n . These reactions are dominated by K ∗ (890) and Δ(1236) production and the quasi-two-body reaction K − n → K ∗− Δ 0 has been studied. A search for exotic resonances found no evidence for their production. A Reggeized multi-peripheral model of Plahte and Roberts has been applied to reactions (1)–(3). Good agreement with our data is obtained for distributions in (i) cos θ ∗ , (ii) effective mass. The model also gives the correct energy dependence between 3 and 4.5 GeV/ c .
Recent Advances in Magnetron Phase Locking: Effects of Frequency Chirps and Locking of Multiple Magnetrons

Summary form only given. Phase-locking is utilized today in many important applications, ranging from small scale devices such as cardiac pacemakers to large scale devices such as radar. We have recently developed a magnetron-specific model to qualitatively explain the various regimes observed in magnetron injection-locking experiments, which utilize two continuous wave magnetrons: one functions as an oscillator and the other as a driver. We have applied this model to study injection locking when the driver has a frequency chirp. The model has also recently been extended to analyze peer-to-peer locking of two magnetrons of comparable powers and frequencies. The feasibility of locking will be explored in terms of the variations in these parameters of the individual magnetrons, as well as the degree of coupling among them. Locking of a larger number of such magnetrons will be explored. A preliminary experiment is being conducted on the peer-to-peer locking of two commercial KW magnetrons.
Groundwaters of New Zealand

Groundwaters of New Zealand attempts to bring together in one volume a complete reference guide to groundwater research and resources in New Zealand. It was written to provide a “state-of-the-art” snapshot of groundwater research, ideas and developments, and current and historical references that encompass the entire country. To this end, this well written, illustrated, and documented book is a grand achievement. However, given its size, the book could do a better service by providing a perspective of New Zealand groundwater research and management in relation to practices outside of its borders.
The osmotic fragility of some fish erythrocytes in hypotonic saline.

Abstract 1. 1. Osmotic fragility curves of erythrocytes from eleven species of marine teleosts from the Gulf of Mexico are of the normal sigmoid type. 2. 2. The mean corpuscular fragility value is generally consistent within a species but varies widely among the different species. 3. 3. Two species of gars, Lepidosteus osseus and L. productus, have erythrocytes which are resistant to hemolysis in hypotonic sodium chloride solutions.
Macroscopic Anatomy of the Heart of the Ringed Seal (Phoca hispida)

Anatomical properties of the ringed seal (Phoca hispida) heart and associated blood vessels reveal adaptations related to requirements for diving. Seven adult ringed seals were embalmed and dissected to document the gross anatomical features of the heart. Computed tomography images of the thoracic cavity were taken on one seal prior to dissection. The shape and position of the heart is different from the typical carnivore heart. The most notable difference is its dorsoventral flattened appearance with its right and left sides positioned, respectively, within the thoracic cavity. The long axis of the heart is positioned horizontally, parallel to the sternum. The right ventricle is spacious with thin walls which extend caudally to the apex of the heart such that the apex is comprised of both right and left ventricles. The cusps of the left atrioventricular valve of the ringed seal heart resemble an uninterrupted, circular curtain making it challenging to distinguish the divisions into parietal and septal cusps.
Stimulation of the rat ovary by gonadotropins and separation of steroids by gas chromatography

Abstract 1. 1. A new method is presented for the extraction, separation and identification of steroids from ovarian tissue by gas chromatography. The steroids are readily extracted by a single-phase solvent system and purified in a minimum of steps. The efficiency and reproducibility of extraction is excellent. Polar and non-polar column systems or mixed phase systems are used to separate a wide variety of estrogens, androgens and progesterones. A choice can be made of detector systems of different sensitivities. 2. 2. The method has been used in a study of the regulation of steroid synthesis in rat ovaries by gonadotropins. Estrone and β-estradiol are synthesized from endogenous cholesterol by ovarian homogenates from immature rats and by ovaries stimulated by pregnant mare serum gonadotropin and human chorionic gonadotropin. In addition to estrogens, progesterone and 4-androstenedione are synthesized by luteinized ovaries. However, large amounts of unidentified steroids derived from 5-pregnenolone were synthesized in vitro from ovaries previously stimulated by gonadotropins in vivo . One or more of these steroids may be the major progestational or estrogenic compounds of the rat. 3. 3. It is suggested that a principal mechanism of action of gonadotropins may be by activation of ovarian glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase ( D -glucose 6-phosphate:NADP oxidoreductase, EC 1.1.1.49). The active enzyem may be a complex of gonadotropin with the precursor enzyme of the ovary. The increased rate of metabolism of glucose 6-phosphate through the pentose phosphate pathway could explain most of the stimulatory effects of gonadotropins on the ovary.
Integrating the Past and Paving the Future: Examining Current Trends and Extending Boundaries of Language and Social Psychology Research

This special issue introduction contextualizes the importance of recent international and interdisciplinary trends and developments in language and social psychology research. The articles included in this special issue are written by keynote speakers and invited panelists at the Ninth International Conference on Language and Social Psychology held at Pennsylvania State University during the summer of 2004. They are forward-thinking and cross multiple research and content boundaries including ethnicity, aging, adolescents, and stereotypes.
IV contrast material for abdominal CT: comparison of three methods of administration

Despite a decade of experience, there is still no consensus as to the optimal IV contrast regimen for use in combined abdominal and pelvic CT scanning. In order to determine which regimen is most effective, 90 patients undergoing CT were prospectively randomized into one of three groups, depending on the method by which IV contrast material was administered: (1) a single bolus (150 ml or 175 ml, depending on the patient's weight) started when scans were made at the level of the dome of the diaphragm; (2) a split bolus delivered by means of a power injector, with the first bolus (100 or 125 ml) given when scans were made at the level of the dome of the diaphragm and the second bolus (50 ml) given when scans were made at the level of the iliac crest; (3) an initial hand-delivered bolus (100 or 125 ml) given when scans were made at the level of diaphragm, followed by rapid IV drip infusion of 50 ml throughout the remainder of the study. Quantitative comparison of pre- and postcontrast scans was performed at ...
Probabilistic Code for DNA Recognition by Proteins of the EGR Family

A recognition code for protein-DNA interactions would allow for the prediction of binding sites based on protein sequence, and the identification of binding proteins for specific DNA targets. Crystallographic studies of protein-DNA complexes showed that a simple, deterministic recognition code does not exist. Here, we present a probabilistic recognition code (P-code) that assigns energies to all possible base-pair-amino acid interactions for the early growth response factor (EGR) family of zinc-finger transcription factors. The specific energy values are determined by a maximum likelihood method using examples from in vitro randomisation experiments (namely, SELEX and phage display) reported in the literature. The accuracy of the model is tested in several ways, including the ability to predict in vivo binding sites of EGR proteins and other non-EGR zinc-finger proteins, and the correlation between predicted and measured binding affinities of various EGR proteins to several different DNA sites. We also show that this model improves significantly upon the prediction capabilities of previous qualitative and quantitative models. The probabilistic code we develop uses information about the interacting positions between the protein and DNA, but we show that such information is not necessary, although it reduces the number of parameters to be determined. We also employ the assumption that the total binding energy is the sum of the energies of the individual contacts, but we describe how that assumption can be relaxed at the cost of additional parameters.
The mini-RAST: Comparison with other varieties of the radioallergosorbent test for the measurement of immunoglobulin E antibodies

In the performance of the RAST a variety of different solid-phase supports for allergens are utilized. In this study we coupled allergens to microcrystalline cellulose and reduced the quantities of solid-phase allergen tenfold and of anti-IgE fourfold. These reductions actually increased the sensitivity of the RAST for IgE antibodies to several allergens, including those derived from Alternaria tenuis and rye grass pollen. We have termed this procedure the mini-RAST to distinguish it from the procedure employing larger quantities of solid-phase allergen and anti-IgE, the maxi-RAST. We then compared three RAST procedures for the detection of IgE antibodies to ragweed allergens: the maxi-RAST, the mini-RAST, and the paper disk RAST, using both commercial paper disks and disks prepared in our laboratory. The maxi-RAST and the mini-RAST yielded similar results and both appeared more sensitive than the paper disk RAST for the detection of IgE antibodies to ragweed. The results indicate that the microcrystalline cellulose RAST can be significantly scaled down without a loss of its ability to detect IgE antibodies and with a considerable saving of valuable solid-phase allergens and anti-IgE.
Adaptive Sliding Mode Spacecraft Attitude Control

An adaptive sliding mode spacecraft attitude controller is derived in this paper. It has the advantage of not requiring knowledge of the inertia of the spacecraft, and rejecting unexpected external disturbances, with global asymptotic position and velocity tracking. The sliding manifold is designed using optimal control analysis of the quaternion kinematics. The sliding mode control law and the parameter adaptation law are designed using Lyapunov stability. Numerical simulations are performed to demonstrate both the nominal and the robust performance.Copyright © 2014 by ASME
Diffraction-limited 3D cell volume derivation for scattering data analysis

Ultrasound speckle carries information about the interrogated scattering microstructure. The complex signal is represented as a superposition of signals due to all scatterers within a resolution cell volume, VE. A crossbeam geometry with separate transmit and receive transducers is well suited for such studies. The crossbeam volume, VE is defined in terms of the overlapping diffraction beam patterns. Given the focused piston transducer's radius and focal distance, a Lommel diffraction formulation suitable for monochromatic excitation is used to calculate VE as a function of frequency and angle. This formulation amounts to a Fresnel approximation to the diffraction problem and is not limited to the focal zone or the far field. Such diffraction corrections as VE are needed to remove the system effects when trying to characterize material using moment analysis. Theoretically, VE is numerically integrated within the overlapping region of the product of the transmit-receive transfer functions. Experimentally, VE was calculated from the field pattern of a medium-focused transducer excited by a monochromatic signal detected by a 0.5mm diameter PVDF membrane hydrophone. We present theoretical and experimental evaluations of VE for the crossbeam geometry at frequencies within the transducers' bandwidth, and its application to tissue microstructure characterization.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Smaller white-matter volumes are associated with larger deficits in attention and learning among long-term survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia

BACKGROUND The primary objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) have deficits in neurocognitive performance, and smaller white-matter volumes are associated with these deficits. METHODS The patients studied included 112 ALL survivors (84 patients who had received chemotherapy only, 28 patients who had received chemotherapy and irradiation; 63 males, 49 females; mean age ± standard deviation, 4.1 yrs ± 2.6 yrs at diagnosis; mean ± standard deviation yrs since diagnosis, 6.0 ± 3.5 yrs), and 33 healthy siblings who participated as a control group. Neurocognitive tests of attention, intelligence, and academic achievement were performed; and magnetic resonance images were obtained and subsequently were segmented to yield tissue volume measurements. Comparisons of neurocognitive measures and tissue volumes between groups were performed, and the correlations between volumes and neurocognitive performance measures were assessed. RESULTS Most performance measures demonstrated statistically significant differences from the normative test scores, but only attention measures exceeded 1.0 standard deviation from normal. Patients who had received chemotherapy alone had significantly larger volumes of white matter than patients who had received treatment that also included cranial irradiation, but their volumes remained significantly smaller than the volumes in the control group. Smaller white-matter volumes were associated significantly with larger deficits in attention, intelligence, and academic achievement. CONCLUSIONS Survivors of childhood ALL had significant deficits in attention and smaller white-matter volumes that were associated directly with impaired neurocognitive performance. Cranial irradiation exacerbated these deficits. Cancer 2006. © 2006 American Cancer Society.
Comparison of stationary phase formation in RP- for methanol-water systems

Abstract A proposed model for a ternary stationary phase system for RP-18 and RP-8 is evaluated. The stationary phase is a combination of bonded organic moiety, silica substrate and associated solvent molecules. The volume and composition of the stationary phase were found to vary under changing mobile phase conditions. Stationery phase formation by solvation of the bonded organic moiety is different but related for RP-18 and RP-18. Selectivity (α) was also seen to plateau for RP-18 and RP-8 at different values. The overall stationary phase formation was found to be dependent on the chain length of the bonded organic moiety and residual silanol activity for RP-18 and RP-18.
The UV‐Absorption Spectrum of Human Iridal Melanosomes: A New Perspective on the Relative Absorption of Eumelanin and Pheomelanin and its Consequences

Photoemission electron microscopy is used to measure the absorption coefficients, ec, of intact iridal stroma melanosomes isolated from dark brown and blue-green human irides for the spectral range λ=244-310 nm. These iridal stroma melanosomes were chosen because different colored irides produce organelles of varying eumelanin:pheomelanin ratios with similar size and morphology. Similar absorption spectra are found for the two types of melanosomes. The experimental spectra measured within are compared with both the extinction coefficient spectra obtained on soluble synthetic model systems and the monomeric precursors to each pigment.
Hydrogen and Chlorine Hyperfine Splittings of Several 2-Hydroxy-1,4-naphthosemiquinones

RECENTLY, Hollocher and Weber1 published electron spin resonance spectra of alkaline aqueous systems containing partially reduced 2-hydroxy-3-methyl-1,4-naph-thoquinone (I), but did not identify the radical responsible.
Results of Complete Penile Disassembly for Epispadias Repair in 42 Patients

ABSTRACTPurpose: We evaluated the Mitchell complete penile disassembly technique for epispadias repair.Materials and Methods: A total of 42 males 1 month to 22 years old presented for repair of epispadias between 1998 and 2002. Cases were divided into 2 groups. Group 1 included 29 cases of complete epispadias as a component of bladder exstrophy, 8 with previous continent urinary diversion. Group 2 included 13 cases of epispadias alone (10 primary and 3 secondary). Of the 29 patients in group 1, 21 underwent complete penile disassembly as part of 1-stage primary closure of bladder exstrophy.Results: Mean followup was 37.5 months (range 6 to 52). Ischemic changes at the glans penis were observed in 5 cases during our initial experience. Ventral orthotopic meatus was observed in all 42 patients, conical glans in 40 (95.2%), straight shaft in 34 (81%) and urethral fistula in 1 (2.4%). There were no cases of dehiscence, meatal stenosis or urethral stricture. Erectile function was preserved in all patients.Conc...
Response functions for sodium iodide scintillation detectors

Abstract The response of sodium iodide detectors to gamma rays has been calculated by a method that takes into account the multiple scattering and escape from the detector of the incident gamma rays as well as of the secondary charged particles and bremsstrahlung. The method is applicable to gamma rays with arbitrarily high energies, and its accuracy has been verified by comparisons with experimental response functions at energies up to 20 MeV. A systematic tabulation has been made of the response functions for 3″ x 3″ detectors irradiated with broad parallel beams of gamma rays, at energies between 100 keV and 20 MeV. These results are given in a parametrized form which makes it easy to interpolate with respect to incident gamma-ray energy. A few response functions have also been calculated for detectors irradiated with 50 MeV gamma rays. Exploratory calculations have shown that 3″ x 3″ detectors are “omnidirectional” in the sense that the shape of the response function depends very little on the direction of the incident gamma-ray beam. Therefore, the tabulated data for broad parallel beams incident perpendicularly can, in good approximation, also be applied to other source geometries, e.g. the case of a detector exposed to an isotropic gamma-ray flux.
A FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF BURR FORMATION IN FACE MILLING OF A CAST ALUMINUM ALLOY

The research discussed in this article focuses on the effects of tool geometry (i.e., rake angle and cutting edge radius) and flank wear upon burr formation in face milling of a cast aluminum alloy. As to tool edge preparation, the use of a tool with variable cutting edge radius was investigated using FEM, and compared for its cutting performance (i.e., burr reduction and tool life) with a conventional tool with uniform cutting edge radius. In order to evaluate 3D face milling through 2D orthogonal cutting simulations, the cross-sections that consist in the cutting speed direction and chip flow direction were selected at different locations along the tool rounded corner. At these cross-sections, the local value of cutting edge radius and their associated tool rake angles as well as the effective uncut chip thickness were determined for 2D cutting simulations. In addition, 3D face milling simulations were conducted to investigate more realistic chip flow and burr generation. Comparisons were made for burrs...
A novel ligand in lymphocyte-mediated cytotoxicity: expression of the beta subunit of H+ transporting ATP synthase on the surface of tumor cell lines.

Extracellular adenosine triphosphate (eATP) has been suggested to play a role in lymphocyte-induced tumor destruction. We now provide evidence that a protein responsible for ATP synthesis in mitochondria may also play a physiologic role in major histocompatibility complex-independent, lymphocyte-mediated cytotoxicity. A 51.5-kD protein (p51.5) bearing structural and immunologic characteristics of the beta subunit of H+ transporting ATP synthase (E.C. 3.6.1.34, beta-H+ATPase, published molecular mass of 51.6 kD) was detected on the plasma membrane of three different human tumor cell lines studied. NH2-terminal amino acid sequence analysis of purified p51.5 from K562 tumor cells revealed 100% homology of 16 residues identified in the first 21 positions to the known sequence of human mitochondrial beta-H+ ATPase. Antibody directed against a 21-mer peptide in the ATP binding region of beta-H+ ATPase (anti-beta) reacted with only one band on Western blots of whole tumor extracts and tumor membrane extracts suggesting that the antiserum reacts with a single species of protein. Anti-beta reacted with the cell membranes of tumor cells as determined by fluorescence-activated flow cytometry and immunoprecipitated a 51.5-kD protein from surface-labeled neoplastic cells (but not human erythrocytes and lymphocytes). Purified p51.5 bound to human lymphocytes and inhibited natural killer (NK) cell-mediated cytotoxicity. Furthermore, anti-beta treatment of the K562 and A549 tumor cell lines inhibited NK (by > 95%) and interleukin 2-activated killer (LAK) cell (by 75%) cytotoxicity, respectively. Soluble p51.5 upon binding to lymphocytes retained its reactivity to anti-beta suggesting that the ATP binding domain and the lymphocyte-receptor binding domain reside in distinct regions of the ligand. These results suggest that beta-H+ ATPase or a nearly identical molecule is an important ligand in the effector phase (rather than the recognition phase) of a cytolytic pathway used by naive NK and LAK cells.
A sub-bottom profiling survey of the St. Magnus Bay deep, Shetland

Synopsis This survey of St. Magnus Bay, Shetland revealed an infilled elongate basin beneath the deep inner part of the bay. Speculations as to the origin of the bay by meteorite impact remain unconfirmed.
Ingredient Consistency of Commercially Available Polyphenol and Tocopherol Nutraceuticals

Label claims of vitamin E succinate and polyphenolic nutraceuticals are assessed. A validated HPLC method was utilized to assess vitamin E succinate products. Three novel LC/MS methods were used to assess the polyphenols, pterostilbene, phloretin, and myricetin, in dietary supplements. The amount of vitamin E succinate varied from 0-130% of the stated label content with two products containing vitamin E acetate rather than vitamin E succinate. Expected polyphenols were found in 7 of the 8 supplement products. None of the polyphenol supplements contained content within 100-120% of label claims. The present study indicates a lack of uniformity in nutraceutical products.
Social Epidemiology: A Tool for Examining Prostate Cancer Early-Detection Decision Making among Older African American Men

The article explores the disparate burden of prostate cancer among older African American men, and this population's minimal use of cancer early-detection strategies. Social epidemiology is introduced as an emerging field that studies the social context of disease with an emphasis on how macrostructural forces and human interactions affect population health. A conceptual model is presented as a social epidemiological tool for investigating complex health and social issues and developing culturally relevant programs and interventions based on empirical findings. The model is then applied to the problem of prostate cancer early-detection decision making among older African American men.
A Distributed Evolutionary Algorithm for Reorganizing Network Communications

The Distributed Evolutionary Algorithm (DEA) presented in this paper produces efficient TDMA schedules for communication in an environment of changing network topology by passing topological and traffic information among nodes communicating on the schedule. As information is gained in this way more nodes are added to the communicating group until the entire network is communicating on a common schedule. The key feature of the DEA presented is that the reorganization phase is fast, requiring a number of TDMA slots only on the order of the number of nodes. A secondary feature is that some network communication can take place, and thus some of the traffic requirements can be satisfied, even while the network is being reorganized. Numerical results are presented for a number of randomly generated networks which show how the algorithm performs.
EFFECT OF HYPOPHYSECTOMY ON DIURNAL RHYTHM OF SPONTANEOUS ACTIVITY IN THE RAT

THE FIRST RECOGNITION, from a modern scientific standpoint, of a diurnal rhythm in the albino rat was by Szymanski (I), who demonstrated and described a 24-hour cycle in the “voluntary” or spontaneous activity of the rat. Slonaker (2) previously noted that the major portion of the rat's activity, in normal illumination, falls in the period of darkness, i.e. at night. Szymanski (1) and later Slonaker (3) observed that despite minor fluctuations such as the “hunger cycle” of Richter (4), the rat is active for the 10 hours between, roughly, 8 P.M. and 6 A.M., and quiet for the major portion of the other 14 hours. Szymanski found that the total activity increased in rats maintained in constant darkness, and furthermore than the diurnal rhythm in activity persisted under such conditions. Thus the diurnal rhythm in activity of the rat may be classed as “persistent” under the definition proposed by Welsh (5). These conclusions have been corroborated and somewhat amplified (6).