cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The Water Balance and Stable Isotope Hydrology of Lake Edward, Uganda-Congo

ABSTRACT Lake Edward, Uganda-Congo, is one of the least studied of the great lakes of East Africa, and little is known of its physical hydrology. Stable isotope data and modeling and previously published estimates of Lake Edward's water balance are used to constrain the physical hydrology of the lake, and particularly the relative proportion of surface outflow to evaporative water losses. Stable isotope calculations suggest that Lake Edward loses roughly 50% of its water income by evaporation, while reviews of published hydrologic data together with our calculations suggest that evaporation comprises 54% of water losses. The similarity of these two sets of calculations lends credence to their validity, and provides a new water budget for the lake. Our results have important implications for the chemistry and hydrocli-matic sensitivity of Lake Edward.
Imperfect oviposition decisions by the pitcher plant mosquito (Wyeomyia smithii)

Wyeomyia smithii mosquitoes distribute their eggs across available oviposition sites (water-holding pitcher plant leaves) of varying quality. I experimentally examined responses to three components of site quality: conspecific larval density, larval density of the pitcher plant midge,Metriocnemus knabi, and pitcher size. Responses to larval treatments were complex and apparently suboptimal. Although mosquito larval performance is better in leaves with fewer conspecific and more midge larvae, females did not lay more eggs in such pitchers. Instead, more eggs were laid in experimental pitchers containing either midge or mosquito larvae, but fewer eggs in pitchers with neither or both. More eggs were laid in larger pitchers, which tend to accumulate more resources and dry out less often. Therefore, although the oviposition decisions made were suboptimal, they were better than random.
The Effects of Graft Rotation on Attachment Site Separation Distances in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction

We created a model to see if twisting the graft in an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction affected the distance separating the femoral and tibial attachments of the perimeter fibers of a patellar tendon graft. Graft bone plugs were simulated by two 12.5-mm diameter Delrin cylinders. Holes, 1 mm in diameter, were placed at the four corners of a centralized rectangle measuring 5 by 10 mm. Graft ligament fibers were represented by color-coded sutures passed through the holes in the modeled bone plugs. This graft model was fixed in tun nels reamed under arthroscopic guidance at the ante rior cruciate ligament attachment sites of the femur and tibia in six fresh-frozen knee specimens. Spring gauges were used to measure indirectly the changes in distance of separation during knee flexion between the femoral and tibial attachments relative to a zero defined at 90° of knee flexion. The tibial cylinder was rotated at 45° increments from 90° external to 180° internal rotation relative to the femoral cylinder ...
On static compaction of test sequences for synchronous sequential circuits

We propose three static compaction techniques for test sequences of synchronous sequential circuits. We apply the proposed techniques to test sequences generated for benchmark circuits by various test generation procedures. The results show that the test sequences generated by all the test generation procedures considered can be significantly compacted. The compacted sequences thus have shorter test application times and smaller memory requirements. As a by product, the fault coverage is sometimes increased as well. More importantly, the ability to significantly reduce the length of the test sequences indicates that it may be possible to reduce test generation time if superfluous input vectors are not generated.
A statistical approach to diagnosing intermittent performance-problems using monotone relationships

Managing a computer system requires that good performance (e.g., large throughputs, small response times) be maintained in order to meet business objectives. Rarely is performance consistently bad. More frequently, performance is good one day and bad the next. Diagnosing such intermittent performance-problems involves determining what distinguishes bad days from good days, such as larger paging rates. Once this is understood, an appropriate remedy can be found, such as buying more memory. This paper describes a statistical approach to diagnosing intermittent performance-problems when the relationships among measurement variables are expressed qualitatively as monotone relationships (e.g., paging delays increase with the number of logged-on users). We present a non-parametric test for monotonicity (NTM) that evaluates monotone relationships based on FA, the fraction of observation-pairs that agree with the monotone relationship. An interpretation of FA in terms of statistical significance levels is presented, and NTM is compared to least-squares regression. Based on NTM, an algorithm for diagnosing intermittent performance-problems is presented. NTM and our diagnosis algorithm are applied to measurements of four similarly configured IBM 9370 model 60s running IBM's operating-system Virtual Machine System Product (VM SP).
System-level modeling of microprocessor reliability degradation due to TDDB

Time-dependent dielectric breakdown (TDDB) is leading reliability concerns for modern microprocessors. In this paper, a framework is proposed to analyze the impact of TDDB on state-of-art microprocessors and to estimate microprocessor lifetimes due to TDDB. Our methodology finds the detailed electrical stress and temperature of each device within a microprocessor system running a variety of standard benchmarks. Combining the electrical stress profiles, thermal profiles, and device-level models, we do timing analysis on the critical paths of a microprocessor using our methodology to characterize microprocessor performance degradation due to TDDB. In addition, we study DC noise margins in conventional 6T SRAM cells as a function of TDDB degradation to provide insights on reliability of memories embedded within microprocessors under realistic use conditions.
Transition from ‘model-based’ to ‘model-free’ behavioral control in addiction: Involvement of the orbitofrontal cortex and dorsolateral striatum

Cocaine addiction is a complex and multidimensional process involving a number of behavioral and neural forms of plasticity. The behavioral transition from voluntary drug use to compulsive drug taking may be explained at the neural level by drug-induced changes in function or interaction between a flexible planning system, associated with prefrontal cortical regions, and a rigid habit system, associated with the striatum. The dichotomy between these two systems is operationalized in computational theory by positing model-based and model-free learning mechanisms, the former relying on an "internal model" of the environment and the latter on pre-computed or cached values to control behavior. In this review, we will suggest that model-free and model-based learning mechanisms appear to be differentially affected, at least in the case of psychostimulants such as cocaine, with the former being enhanced while the latter are disrupted. As a result, the behavior of long-term drug users becomes less flexible and responsive to the desirability of expected outcomes and more habitual, based on the long history of reinforcement. To support our specific proposal, we will review recent neural and behavioral evidence on the effect of psychostimulant exposure on orbitofrontal and dorsolateral striatum structure and function. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled 'NIDA 40th Anniversary Issue'.
Wave Speed in Excitable Random Networks with Spatially Constrained Connections

Very fast oscillations (VFO) in neocortex are widely observed before epileptic seizures, and there is growing evidence that they are caused by networks of pyramidal neurons connected by gap junctions between their axons. We are motivated by the spatio-temporal waves of activity recorded using electrocorticography (ECoG), and study the speed of activity propagation through a network of neurons axonally coupled by gap junctions. We simulate wave propagation by excitable cellular automata (CA) on random (Erdos-Renyi) networks of special type, with spatially constrained connections. From the cellular automaton model, we derive a mean field theory to predict wave propagation. The governing equation resolved by the Fisher-Kolmogorov PDE fails to describe wave speed. A new (hyperbolic) PDE is suggested, which provides adequate wave speed that saturates with network degree , in agreement with intuitive expectations and CA simulations. We further show that the maximum length of connection is a much better predictor of the wave speed than the mean length. When tested in networks with various degree distributions, wave speeds are found to strongly depend on the ratio of network moments rather than on mean degree , which is explained by general network theory. The wave speeds are strikingly similar in a diverse set of networks, including regular, Poisson, exponential and power law distributions, supporting our theory for various network topologies. Our results suggest practical predictions for networks of electrically coupled neurons, and our mean field method can be readily applied for a wide class of similar problems, such as spread of epidemics through spatial networks.
Indices of ordinal variation

Properties of the index of ordinal variation (IOV) and Leik's ordinal variation (LOV) measure are examined. The two measures for ordinal variation are compared using numerical examples.
Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation for the Management of Cardiac Tachyarrhythmias

ABSTRACT Radiofrequency catheter ablation techniques allow for safe and highly effective curative therapy of a variety of cardiac dysrhythmias. The technique involves the delivery of a high-frequency, alternating electrical current through an intravascular catheter to sites of arrhythmogenic myocardium. This current induces resistive electrical heating of the tissue, resulting in discrete areas of myocardial destruction through coagulation and desiccation. Dysrhythmias most commonly treated with these techniques are atrioventricular nodal reentry and tachycardias related to accessory atrioventricular bypass tracts. For these dysrhythmias, success rates of 90% to 95% are achievable with a low (2% to 4%) risk of complications. Radiofrequency catheter ablation techniques also have been used to treat ventricular tachycardias, atrial flutter, ectopic atrial tachycardia, and sinus node reentry, albeit with lower success rates. These techniques are still evolving, alternate energy sources (such as microwave and laser) and improved catheter technology should enhance the technique’s safety and efficacy for a wider range of dysrhythmias.
Complete interatrial and intra-atrial block (atrial dissociation)

Abstract Certain aspects of complete interatrial and intra-atrial blocks have been discussed and four personal, not previously reported, observations of this disturbance have been added. A few additional cases scattered in the literature have been mentioned, thus supplementing the extensive review of the subject undertaken elsewhere.
Barriers to implementing treatment integrity procedures: Survey of treatment outcome researchers.

Treatment integrity refers to implementing interventions as intended. Treatment integrity is critically important for experimental validity and for drawing valid inferences regarding the relationship between treatment and outcome. Yet, it is rarely adequately addressed in psychotherapy research. The authors examined barriers to treatment integrity implementation by surveying psychotherapy researchers. Results indicate that lack of theory and guidelines on treatment integrity procedures, as well as time, cost, and labor constraints, were regarded as strong barriers. The lack of general knowledge about treatment integrity and the lack of editorial requirement for reporting integrity procedures were also perceived as barriers to its implementation. However, psychotherapy researchers indicated awareness of the importance of treatment integrity for the experimental validity of a study and did not regard lack of its appreciation as a barrier for implementing integrity procedures. Further, a higher number of endorsed barriers predicted lower adequacy of treatment integrity procedures in the authors' own research. Recommendations for improving how integrity is addressed include journal and editorial enforcement of treatment integrity implementation, funding for integrity procedures, and provision of specific guidelines.
Ultrastructure of the Gunn rat substantia nigra I. Cytoplasmic changes.

The substantia nigra of various aged hyperbilirubinemic (Gunn) rats was studied by means of electron microscopy. The cytological features observed in the neuronal somata were the presence of (1) complex membranous bodies (CMBs), (2) dilated cisternae of granular endoplasmic reticulum, (3) single membrane bound vacuoles and (4) enlarged mitochondria. Nearly every neuronal soma studied in two week old Gunn rats contained CMBs, which consisted of several layers of membrane that usually, but not always, surrounded small islands of cytoplasm. On occasion CMBs were seen to be directly connected with granular endoplasmic reticulum and, in a few instances, they were located within a cistern of endoplasmic reticulum. There were significantly fewer CMBs in the neuronal somata of adult Gunn rats. They were located peripherally in the somata or in the proximal portions of dendrites. Furthermore, in these animals the cytoplasm appeared normal and did not exhibit the features commonly seen in younger animals. Only a few hyperchromatic neurons were observed and no pronounced gliosis was evident. Therefore it is assumed that the majority of substantia nigra neurons recovered from the toxic effect of bilirubin or that the concentration of bilirubin deposited in the substantia nigra is not sufficient to be lethal. The hypothesis that is considered is that CMBs represent autophagic activity which results from exposure of neurons to bilirubin. The adjacent neurites and glia did not demonstrate the cytoplasmic changes that were characteristic of the neuronal somata.
The post-mortem origin and mechanism of neuronal hyperchromatosis and nuclear pyknosis.

Abstract In an attempt to elucidate the mechanism by which post-mortem traumatization induces transformation of a normal neuron to a “dark” neuron, several series of cats and guinea pigs were fixed and prepared histologically in various manners. The initial change was demonstrated in frozen sections of tissues fixed by immersion in formalin; cytoplasmic and nuclear membranes were detached from their surroundings forming cleavage spaces which were enlarged by dehydration. The transfer of tissues directly into rapidly acting fixatives or their prolonged storage in fixatives was of no avail for restoration of attachments. The perfusion of fixatives was of significance for avoiding “dark” neurons, provided the procedure was successful and the autopsy delayed; 4 hours sufficed after use of Heidenhain's Susa fixative. Perfect perfusion and fixation were obtained, even if the brain was exposed to air and thus to atmospheric pressure prior to death or if perfusion was performed 10 min after death. “Dark” neurons were present in areas of imperfect perfusion. They were present when the perfusion was delayed 30 min. For proper fixation many factors had to be considered; among them, hydrostatic pressure, composition of the solution to flush blood vessels, use of a coagulant fixative, and delayed autopsy. The aim of fixation is to affix cellular membranes in such a manner that neurons are no longer vulnerable to traumatization incurred during autopsy and removal of the organ.
Propagation Losses Of Thin Film Waveguides

Propagation losses of ZnS thin film waveguides have been investigated. The effects of oxygen and water backpressures during the deposition of ZnS thin films on waveguide performance and microstructure have been observed. These effects dominated losses caused by surface finish. A decrease in losses, and a change in preferential crystal orientation from (111) faces parallel to the substrate to (220) was observed for increased H2O partial pressures. Increasing 02 partial pressure resulted in lower waveguide losses possibly from attachment to unbonded Zn and void filling. Because waveguide scattering losses are Rayleigh-like, a quadratic dependence on crystallite grain size is expected. (220) oriented crystallites had smaller grain sizes than the (111) and overall lower losses.© (1988) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Thrombosis after travel.

Traveling has always been a risky venture. In times gone by, the traveler left the security of home to face myriad dangers, including accidents, storms, infectious disease, malnutrition, and assault. Consider the choices faced by travelers from New York to San Francisco before the transcontinental railroad traversed North America in 1869. They had to choose between a harsh overland route by wagon train through forbidding territory, a sailing expedition around Cape Horn through some of the most treacherous waters on earth, or the most dangerous route, by sea to Panama, and then a trek by canoe, mule, and foot through mosquito-infested jungles in the hope of booking passage by ship from the Pacific side. By comparison, today's traveler would seem to have little to worry about.
Mohs micrographic surgery for squamous cell carcinoma associated with epidermolysis bullosa.

Aradhna Saxena, MD, Jason B. Lee, MD, and Tatyana R. Humphreys, MD, have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters.
EFFECT OF SINGLE DOSE DEXAMETHASONE ON THE CONCENTRATION OF SERUM TRIIODOTHYRONINE IN MAN

ABSTRACT In 9 euthyroid volunteers and 6 athyreotic subjects receiving replacement thyroxine therapy, a single dose of dexamethasone caused significant reduction in circulating concentrations of total serum triiodothyronine (T3). The fall was observed 24 hours following the administration of dexamethasone with return to pre-treatment concentrations evident by 48 hours. The reduction in serum T3 in the athyreotic group on replacement thyroxine therapy demonstrates a direct effect of glucocorticoids on the peripheral metabolism of T3 in man.
Removal of Salmonella Enteritidis from commercial unpasteurized liquid egg white using pilot scale cross flow tangential microfiltration

Abstract Effectiveness of a cross flow microfiltration (MF) process for removal of a cocktail of Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis species from commercial unpasteurized liquid egg white (LEW) from a local egg breaking plant, while maintaining its functional properties was evaluated. To facilitate MF, LEW was wedge screened, homogenized and then diluted (1:2 w/w) with distilled water containing 0.5% sodium chloride. Diluted unpasteurized LEW was inoculated with five strains of S . Enteritidis (ATCC 4931, ATCC BAA-708, ATCC 49215, ATCC 49218, and ATCC BAA-1045) to a level of approximately 10 7 CFU/mL of LEW and microfiltered using a ceramic membrane. Process parameters influencing egg white functional properties and pathogen removal efficiency were evaluated. Average permeates flux increased by almost 126% when pH of LEW was adjusted from pH 8 to pH 7 at 25 °C. Microbial removal efficiency was at least, on average, 6.8 Log 10 CFU/mL (limit of detection ≤ 0.5 Log 10 CFU/mL). Functional property analysis indicated that the MF process did not alter the foaming power of LEW.
A New Product Integral Representation for Differential Equations in Separable Banach Spaces

Abstract LetXbe a separable Banach space. Consider the problem[formula]where the continuous functionf: [0, ∞) × X → Xis locally Lipschitz continuous inx, uniformly inton bounded intervals, and continuous intuniformly w.r.t.x. The product integral formula x(T) = lim n → ∞ ∏ i = 0 n [I + T n f(i T n )]x 0 , 0 ≤ T t max for the solutionx(t) of (D) has been shown to converge. We also show that iff(t, .) is Lipschitz continuous onXwith constantL, then the mappingx0 → x(T) is Lipschitz continuous with constanteLTfor anyT > 0. This formula has been recently developed for differential inclusions inRnby Wolenski, but the infinite dimensional case is considerably more involved.
First principles impurity diffusion coefficients

Abstract We report the prediction of impurity diffusion coefficients entirely from first principles, using density-functional theory (DFT) calculations. From DFT we obtain all microscopic parameters in the pre-factor and activation energy of impurity diffusion coefficients: (i) the correlation factor through a five frequency model, (ii) the impurity jump frequency within the framework of transition state theory and (iii) the free energies of vacancy formation and vacancy–solute binding. Specifically, we calculate the impurity diffusion coefficients of Mg, Si and Cu in dilute face-centered cubic Al alloys. The results show excellent agreement with experimental data. We discuss the factors contributing to the trends in diffusivities of these impurities.
Implications of very long baseline interferometry measurements on North American intra-plate crustal deformation

Very Long Baseline Interferometry experiments over the last 1-3/4 years between Owens Valley, CA and Haystack, MA Radio Observatories suggest an upper limit of east-west crustal deformation between the two sites of about 1 cm/yr. In view of the fact that the baseline between the two sites traverses most of the major geological provinces of the United States, this low rate of crustal deformation has direct relevance to intra-plate crustal tectonics. The most active region traversed by this baseline is the Basin and Range province, which was estimated by various researchers to be expanding in an east-west direction at rates of .3 to 1.5 cm/yr. The Colorado Plateau and Rocky Mountain system also appear to be expanding, but at a somewhat lower rate, while east of the Rocky Mountains, the predominant stress appears to be compressional, nearly horizontal, and east to northeast trending.
A Note on the Wave Functions of the Relativistic Hydrogenic Atom

The radial functions for the discrete levels of Dirac's relativistic hydrogenic atom are expressed in terms of the generalized Laguerre polynomials which have known properties. This leads to an easy method of evaluating the normalization constants and the average values of ${r}^{q}$.
The declining use of animal and behaviour images in animal behaviour journals

It is difficult to overstate the value of images in science. Visualization is often the most effective tool to convey scientific concepts, and the opportunities that come with imaging techniques are growing. Nevertheless, we noticed that recent articles in animal behaviour journals include few images of animals or behaviour. To see whether their numbers have declined, we selected five behaviour journals and collected data from 1114 articles published over the journals' histories. We discovered that graphs (x–y plots) have increased over time, charts and tables have not changed, and images (graphical representations, including photographs, of animals, of behaviour, of animals expressing behaviour and of experimental design) have significantly decreased. To test whether supplementary online information has had effects, we compared the use of visual devices in 75 articles with or without supplementary online information. We found that supplementary online information has added means of visually presenting information, but has not compensated for the decline of images.
Toward homogeneous erythropoietin: chemical synthesis of the Ala1-Gly28 glycopeptide domain by "alanine" ligation.

The Ala1−Gly28 glycopeptide fragment (28) of EPO was prepared by chemical synthesis as a single glycoform. Key steps in the synthesis include attachment of a complex dodecasaccharide (7) to a seven...
Rotation/Inversion Study of the Amino Group in Ethylamine

Using the HF, MP2, and DFT methodologies in the GAUSSIAN 94 set of quantum chemistry codes with a 6-311G** basis set, we examine theoretically the internal rotation and inversion of the amino group in ethylamine. An analytical potential energy surface corresponding to energy as a function of φ, the dihedral angle of the lone-pair of electrons on the amino group, and τ, the angle between the amine plane and the C−N axis, for these motions is generated by fitting the energy determined at 109 geometries to sums of products of Bessel functions of the first kind, Jm, and cos(mφ). The surface depicts several special points: the minimum energy trans conformer, the two gauche conformers, the three first-order transition states for internal rotation of the amino group about the C−N bond, the two first-order transition states for the inversion of the amino group, and the three second-order transition states also for the inversion motion. The results of a related study on the internal rotation of the ammonium group...
ALCOHOL AND MARIJUANA USE AMONG RURAL YOUTH: INTERACTION OF SOCIAL AND INTRAPERSONAL INFLUENCES

Abstract Epidemiological research indicates that the prevalence rate of drug use among adolescents has risen steadily during this decade, and although alcohol use has stabilized it is still highly prevalent. Psychosocial etiological models have typically examined main effects of risk and protective factors. This study examined moderating effects of intrapersonal skills on social (peer and parental) risks associated with alcohol and marijuana use among eighth-grade rural adolescents, an understudied population. Results indicated that the relationships of peer and parental attitudes, and peer usage to alcohol and marijuana use, are moderated by adolescents’ decision-making and self-reinforcement skills. Social risk factors were strongly associated with increased alcohol and marijuana use among adolescents with poor intrapersonal skills. However, good decision-making and self-reinforcement skills diminished the influence of social risk factors on substance use. Results are discussed in terms of implications for psychosocial models of alcohol and drug use, and for designing effective school-based universal prevention interventions.
Occurrence of Huntaphelenchoides Sp. (Aphelenchoididae) and Acrostichus Sp. (Diplogasteridae) in the Reproductive Tracts of Soil Nesting Bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea)

The dauer (J III ) stage of Huntaphelenchoides sp. was found in the reproductive tracts of male and female adults of a solitary digger bee, Anthophora bomboides stanfordiana (Apoidea: Anthophoridae). Huntaphelenchoides sp. caused no damage to the adults or broods of A. bomboides and reproduced on fungi isolated from the cells. The dauer stage of Acrostichus sp. was recovered from the reproductive tracts of adult Halictus ligatus and H. farinosus (Apoidea: Halictidae). Acrostichus sp. was cultured on the bacterium, Escherichia coli. Also, unidentified aphelenchoidid dauer juveniles were found in the reproductive tracts of H. farinosus. These nematodes from the reproductive tracts of these soil dwelling bees are phoretic rather than parasitic.
Optimization of planar interdigitated microelectrode array for biofluid transport by AC electrothermal effect

Point-of-care (POC) diagnostics is one of the most important applications for microfluidic research. However, the development of microfluidic POC devices needs to overcome great obstacles to reach market. One challenge is to find a chip-scale pumping strategy that is of low cost, small size, and light weight. Because of their simple implementation, electrokinetic techniques have been extensively investigated as a promising candidate for realizing disposable pumps, with the majority of research effort focusing on direct current and alternating current (AC) electroosmosis. As POC applications often need to handle conductive biofluids with medium to high salt content, AC electrothermal (ACET) effect has been investigated recently for pumping of biofluids, albeit with less than desirable pumping performance. In order to achieve effective on-chip ACET micropumps, this paper presents one of the first efforts in optimizing ACET micropump design utilizing planar interdigitated electrodes. The effects of electrode dimensions on pumping rate were numerically studied using COMSOL Multiphysics and MATLAB, and an optimal ratio of electrode geometry was found for various pumping scenarios. The optimal geometry ratio was tested to be valid over a wide range of electrode characteristic lengths, AC signals, and fluid ionic strengths. Experimental validation of the simulation results was also conducted, and higher flow velocities over prior reports were consistently demonstrated by optimized electrode arrays.
Immobilization of spent nuclear fuel in iron phosphate glass

Twenty-four iron phosphate compositions (15 wt% wasteloading) were evaluated to determine their suitability for vitrifying Al-clad, highly enriched uranium, spent nuclear fuel (SNF). In half the compositions melted, 80 wt% of the Al2O3 in the simulated SNF was removed prior to vitrification. All twenty-four compositions formed homogeneous glasses, many at temperatures as low as 1150°C. As little as 2.5 wt% Na2O decreased melt viscosity and increased alumina solubility in those glasses of higher alumina contents (7.2 wt% Al2O3). None of the glasses contained undissolved uranium compounds as has been found in borosilicate glasses containing as little 4.4 wt% UO2. The chemical durability (measured by the product consistency test (PCT)) of the iron phosphate wasteforms is as good as, and in many cases up to 15 times better than the approved reference material (ARM-1) borosilicate glass.
GABAA Receptor Activation Modulates Corneal Unit Activity in Rostral and Caudal Portions of Trigeminal Subnucleus Caudalis

Corneal nociceptors terminate at the trigeminal subnucleus interpolaris/caudalis (Vi/Vc) transition and subnucleus caudalis/upper cervical spinal cord (Vc/C1) junction regions of the lower brain st...
A comparison of in vivo and in vitro tests for the absorption, penetration, and diffusion of some medicinals from silicone and petrolatum ointment bases.

Five drugs–sulfanilamide, ammoniated mercury, salicylic acid, iodine and sodium radio–iodide (I135), and chlortetracycline–each incorporated into three silicone ointment bases and three petrolatum ointment bases, were tested by in vitro procedures for diffusion of the drug and by in vivo procedures for penetration and absorption of the drug. A modified agar plate method and a chemical procedure were the two in vitro tests used for measuring diffusion. The penetration of the drugs from ointments was determined by applying the ointments to the skin of white rats and subsequently analyzing a biopsy of the inuncted skin. The absorption of the drugs into systemic circulation was measured by analyzing the blood or a “storage organ” for the drugs. Both intact-skin studies and abraded-skin studies were conducted. The results obtained by in vitro diffusion tests did not correlate well with the penetration of the drugs as shown by in vivo tests. With three of the five drugs the in vitro data correlated fairly well with the absorption through abraded skin; whereas there was little correlation between in vitro data and absorption through intact skin. Neither the silicone ointment bases nor the petrolatum ointment bases could be shown to be the universally more efficient vehicles.
Structured Estolides: Control of Length and Sequence

Using ester-forming reactions such as carbodiimide coupling and a modified Yamaguchi symmetrical anhydride method, a variety of estolides based on 17-hydroxy oleic and 17-hydroxy stearic acid have been prepared. These hydroxy fatty acids are produced in good yields from hydrolysis of sophorolipids, which are in turn derived from fermentation of fats and oils. Since the estolides are formed one unit, or ester bond, at a time, their length and sequence can be precisely controlled. The key to this control is the use of protecting groups at either the carboxylic or hydroxy end of the starting hydroxy fatty acids. Two mono-protected dimers, for example, when combined in a fragment-condensation approach, give a tetramer with no “contamination” from estolides of other lengths. This methodology opens the way to functionalized estolides, and several variants were prepared: hybrid estolides, containing non-fatty acid moieties such as amino acids; polymerizable estolides, containing a norbornene unit; and non-linear estolides that extend from a branched core such as glycerol or pentaerythritol. With the benzoyl chloride-mediated symmetrical anhydride method, yields for individual coupling steps ranged from 75 to 93%.
Developmental Evaluation of Aldo-keto Reductase 1C3 Expression in the Cryptorchid Testis

Objectives To characterize aldo-keto reductase 1C3 (AKR1C3) expression in surgically-removed cryptorchid testes. Human AKR1C3 is a monomeric, cytoplasmic, multifunctional enzyme that reduces ketosteroids, ketoprostaglandins, and lipid aldehydes. AKR1C3 expression has been demonstrated in normal adult Leydig cells and peritubular fibromyocytes. No prior studies have evaluated AKR1C3 expression patterns across different age groups. Methods Surgically excised cryptorchid testes were subjected to hematoxylin-eosin evaluation to review overall testicular pathology. These samples were then evaluated for AKR1C3 distribution via immunohistochemical staining with a monospecific AKR1C3 monoclonal antibody. Single-pathologist grading of AKR1C3 expression was correlated with clinical presentations. Results A total of 16 cryptorchid testes were identified from the 2000 to present. Median age at the time of surgery was 9 years (range, 1-17). The testes were excised due to atrophy, poor tissue consistency, and short spermatic cord length. AKR1C3 expression was identified at all ages in fibromyocytes surrounding the testicular tubules. Leydig cell expression was absent at Tanner stages 1 and 2, while strong expression was found at Tanner stage 3 and beyond. No AKR1C3 expression was seen in germ cells at any stage. AKR1C3 expression was identified in 18%-26% of Sertoli cells in patients at Tanner stages 2 and beyond. Conclusions AKR1C3 expression occurs in a Tanner stage dependent-fashion. Pre- and peri-pubertal changes appear to promote expression of the enzyme in Leydig cells. In contrast to the normal adult testis, the pediatric cryptorchid testis reveals AKR1C3 expression in Sertoli cells. Additional studies are warranted to determine the involvement of AKR1C3 in testicular descent and development.
Capacitive weighting technique for estimating the 3D turn-level capacitance in a transformer winding

An alternative method to calculate the low frequency capacitance between transformer turns for use in multi-conductor transmission line modeling (MTL) of transformers during high frequency transients is presented. This paper makes use of both 3D and 2D finite element simulation to more accurately calculate the capacitances than can be done by closed form equations with simplifying assumptions while avoiding the computational difficulties involved in the three dimensional analysis of a transformer on the turn to turn level. The method is demonstrated on an arbitrary transformer with few enough turns to readily compute 3D turn-level capacitance for comparison. It is then applied to a real transformer. The results are used to calculate the terminal capacitance which is compared to experimental measurement and found to be within 5% of the measured value.
Temperature dependence of positron annihilation at dislocations in Pb(Cd)

We have measured the temperature dependence of positron lifetimes in a Pb/sub 96.1/Cd/sub 3.9/ alloy having a dislocation density large enough to significantly affect the e/sup +/e/sup -/ annihilation spectra. These spectra were resolved into two unconstrained lifetimes in addition to a source-term lifetime. The longer of the two lifetimes, which is attributed to positrons localized by traps associated with dislocations, decreases with increasing sample temperature T at about 0.1 psec K/sup -1/ for 90< or =T< or =300 K. These data represent the first reported observation of a temperature-dependent lifetime of positrons localized at dislocation traps. It is proposed that the temperature dependence is principally due to atoms penetrating deeper into the traps as T is raised. We suggest that these atomic incursions also effect a negative contribution to the slope of the line-shape parameter S(T). Analysis of the data in terms of the two-state trapping model reveals (i) that both the trapping rate per unit dislocation density and the probability of annihilation occurring at the dislocation traps for constant dislocation density are weakly temperature dependent, and (ii) that during recovery anneals the total trapping rate decreases markedly, whereas little change is exhibited by the lifetime of the trappedmore » positron.« less
Rethinking accountable privacy supporting services: extended abstract

As privacy concerns among consumers rise, service providers will increasingly want to provide services that support privacy enhancing technologies. At the same time, providers of commercial services require the security of identifying misbehaving users. For instance, users that do not pay their bill can be held accountable for their behavior. We propose a scheme that permits privacy support while retaining accountability. In our proposed scheme an honest user may enjoy full anonymity, but dishonest users who do not pay their bill have their identity revealed. In contrast to existing revocable anonymity systems, our proposed scheme requires less trust in an external authority, while simultaneously making accountability easier (and less costly) to achieve. We contribute the concept of a time capsule, that is, a verifiable encryption with timed and revocable decryptability.
Clinical guidelines for the treatment of hypertension in African Americans.

African Americans represent a population with the highest prevalence of hypertension in the world, associated with earlier onset, more severity, poorer control rates, and more cardiovascular and renal complications than White Americans. The high prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in African Americans, compared with Whites, compounds the excessive burden of cardiovascular and kidney disease. The Hypertension in African American Working Group of the International Society of Hypertension in Blacks recently developed a consensus document that presented a practical, evidence-based approach aimed at achieving better blood pressure control. It was thought that a new approach, targeted at US Blacks, was needed to achieve better blood pressure control and enhanced target tissue protection. Key elements of the document include (i) emphasis on the importance of therapeutic lifestyle modification such as weight loss, decreased sodium ingestion, increased potassium intake, exercise, and weight loss, to name a few; (ii) recommendation of combination antihypertensive agents because of the high prevalence of individuals with >15mm Hg above SBP goal and/or 10mm Hg above DBP goal (140/90 unless there is also diabetes and/or kidney disease with >lg proteinuria daily). Effective combinations include β-adrenoceptor antagonist/diuretic, ACE inhibitor/diuretic, ACE inhibitor/calcium channel antagonist, and angiotensin receptor antagonist/diuretic; and (iii) the recommendations do not differ from other racial/ethnic groups where specific or compelling indications for the use of specific classes of antihypertensive agents exist.
Catalyst coating for nonporous supports in reactors for purification of gas discharges

In order to improve the mechanical strength of the catalyst coating, a technique has been proposed in which the catalyst is prepared on nonporous metal supports. This technique consists of application of a catalytically active suspension consisting of the catalyst, a binder, and an adhesive solution to the surface of a metal support, such as the plates of a reactor, after which the porous film formed on the metal support is dried and calcined. Recommended as the binder is the cement talyum, which is technical calcium aluminate; recommended as the adhesive is a solution of a polymethylphenylsiloxane resin in toluene, similar in composition to KO-08 varnish. The polymethylphenylsiloxane resin macromolecules making up the adhesive, after vaporization of the toluene, upon drying and calcining of the coating form an elastic, strong network that is heat-resistant to 450/sup 0/C. This network retains the catalyst and binder particles on the surface of the metal support. The elasticity of the polymer network accommodates the deformations created in the catalyst film thermal expansion or contraction of the metal coating, and also the stresses created in installing the reactor.
Building a culturally-competent corporate web site: an exploratory study of cultural markers in multilingual web design

The localization of transnational corporate websites requires a strategy for designing usable web interfaces that can be easily accessed and understood by international audiences. With a discussion of a pilot study of cultural markers in two multilingual websites, this paper explores how we might accomplish website localization more effectively by defining criteria, searching for efficient and effective strategies and techniques, and evaluating current practices.
ON THE PREDICTION OF POROSITY OF BEDS COMPOSED OF MIXTURES OF SPHERICAL PARTICLES

A semi-theoretical study of porosity of particulate beds composed of mixtures of various size spherical particles has been performed. A model for mixtures of only two particle sizes is developed and is used to identify several dimensionless parameters which are correlated by comparing predictions with the data. The model is then extended to evaluate porosity of mixtures of a large number of particle sizes and distributions. The predictions from the model are found to compare quite well with the data taken in this work and the existing data in the literature when unavailability of a certain fraction of pores formed of largest size particles in the mixture is accounted for.
Neural networks and REM sleep.

The nature of certain forms of memory is discussed in relation to neural networks and REM sleep.
Growth of A15 NbSi by epitaxy and composition grading

Abstract Films of niobium-rich A15 NbSi were grown epitaxially on polycrystalline A15 NbIr using electron beam evaporation. The NbSi films were made nobium rich in order to match lattice parameters with the NbIr. Some samples were then brought toward the 3:1 stoichiometry by a composition-grading technique. Composition grading can enhance transition temperatures Tc by in some cases more than 6K. The maximum resistive Tc onset is 13.2 K. The highest Tcs are achieved when the NbIr lattice is tending to expand the NbSi overgrowth beyond its own natural lattice parameter. Transmission electron microscopy experiments show that the ability of composition grading to bring the A15 phase toward the 3:1 stoichiometry is limited by the growth of silicon-rich phases in the A15 grain boundaries.
Developmental changes and among-sibling variation of corticosterone levels in an altricial avian species

The postnatal development of the activity of the brain-pituitary-adrenal axis was investigated in an altricial bird species by measurements of plasma corticosterone levels in nestling and fledgling canaries, Serinus canaria. Corticosterone was detectable (>2.6 ng/ml) in 30% of 5-day-old, 67% of 10-day-old, 72% of 15-day-old, and 88% of 23-day-old birds. When detectable, the corticosterone levels of 5-day-old nestlings were comparable to the baseline levels of adult birds. Levels were higher in 10- and 15- than in 5-day-old nestlings. The levels of 23-day-old fledglings (about 6 to 7 days after fledgling) were significantly higher than those of 15-day-old nestlings. They were intermediate between adult baseline and stress-induced levels. Sex did not influence this general profile, but levels varied with the order of hatching within broods. At the age of 15 and 23 days first hatched chicks had higher corticosterone levels than last hatched chicks, while second hatched chicks had intermediate levels. These differences were not correlated with body mass. The results suggest that (1) the brain-pituitary-adrenal axis of this altricial bird becomes fully functional after hatching and (2) birth order within broods influences corticosterone secretion during subsequent stages of development. It is unlikely that the brain-pituitary-adrenal axis matures at different rates in first and later hatched chicks or that the different levels of first and later hatched chicks were caused by capture and handling stress. Rather, they may result from such maternal effects as hatching asynchrony or differential concentrations of yolk steroids among the eggs in a clutch. Further studies will have to show whether this systematic variation of corticosterone levels among siblings during early life persists into adulthood and how it is related to behavior and fitness.
Abnormalities in Binaural Interaction Precede Abnormalities in Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials in Jaundiced Gunn Rat Pups given Sulfonamide† 841

Monaural BAEPs provide a sensitive measure of bilirubin neurotoxicity in both humans and the jaundiced (jj) Gunn rat model of acute bilirubin toxicity. Abnormalities in binaural interaction have also been demonstrated (Hear Res 53:41, 1991). We examined the differential sensitivity of monaural brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs) and evoked potential binaural difference waves (BDWs) using jj's made acutely bilirubin toxic by injecting the albumin-binding drug, sulfadimethoxine (sulfa), to displace blood bilirubin into brain tissue. Baseline 3-channel recordings (mastoid-mastoid, vertex-chin, nasion-inion) were obtained from anesthetized 17-day-old jj's. Experimental jj's were then given sulfa 100 mg/kg (n=8); control jj's were either not injected (n=4) or injected with saline (n=2). Serial BAEPs and BDWs were obtained continuously for 6h. BAEP I-II and I-III (wave II or III latency minus wave I latency), the average of monaural BAEPs from the left and right ears in the mastoid-mastoid recording montage, were compared to the latency of the positive peak of the BDW in the nasion-inion montage. Baseline values of 1.08±0.07 ms (mean±SD) for BAEP I-II, 1.97±0.21 ms for I-III, and 6.91±0.34 msec for the latency of the BDW were not significantly different between groups. In sulfa-injected animals, BAEP I-II and I-III first increased 50 min after sulfa injection versus controls(p=0.001 and p=0.002, respectively) and vs. baseline(p=0.0004 and p=0.003). BDW latency first increased 20 min after sulfa injection compared to controls (p=0.002) and to baseline (p=0.001). These findings demonstrate that BDW latency abnormalities occur before initial BAEP abnormalities in this model of acute bilirubin toxicity and suggest that electrophysiological measures of binaural interaction in the brainstem may be an earlier indication of bilirubin's damaging effect on neuronal function than conventional BAEPs. Supported by NIH NIDCD R01 DC 00369