cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Ventilation of fully-developed compartment fires

Abstract The relation between the rate of entry of air into a fire cell and the so-called ventilation parameter was studied in a series of reduced-scale experiments. It was found that, during the period of full development, the fire plume plays a significant role in the movement of the air and the effluent fire gases. The fire plume acts as a primitive jet pump and may increase the throughput of gases, in relation to that attributable to the two-layer flow mechanism, by as much as a factor of 2. A tentative model of the plume-augmented ventilation mechanism is offered.
Abnormal Lung Gallium-67 Uptake Preceding Pulmonary Physiologic Impairment in an Asymptomatic Patient with Pneumocystis carinii Pneumonia

Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia was suggested by a diffuse, bilateral pulmonary uptake of gallium-67 in an asymptomatic, homosexual male with the antibody to the immunodeficiency virus (HIV) who was undergoing staging evaluation for lymphoma clinically localized to a left inguinal lymph node. Chest radiograph and pulmonary function evaluation, including lung volumes, diffusing capacity and arterial blood gases, were within normal limits. Bronchoalveolar lavage revealed Pneumocystis carinii organisms. In this asymptomatic, HIV-positive patient, active alveolar infection, evidenced by abnormal gallium-67 scanning, predated pulmonary physiologic abnormalities. This observation raises questions concerning the natural history of this disease process and the specificity of physiologic tests for excluding disease. It also has implications for the treatment of neoplasia in the HIV-positive patient population.
Depression predicts revascularization procedures for 5 years after coronary angiography.

Author(s): Sullivan, Mark D; LaCroix, Andrea Z; Spertus, John A; Hecht, Julia; Russo, Joan | Abstract: OBJECTIVE:Depression has been reported to increase cardiac event rates and functional impairment in patients with coronary disease. This article describes the impact of depression on subsequent healthcare utilization for such patients. METHODS:One hundred ninety-eight health maintenance organization patients with stable coronary disease were interviewed after elective angiography using a structured psychiatric diagnostic scale. Cardiac events, hospitalizations, procedures, and costs were monitored for the next 5 years through automated data. Subjects were classified at the time of angiography by modified DSM-IV criteria into those with major, minor, and no depression. RESULTS:In univariate analyses, the no depression group (N = 136) was most likely to receive coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) (61% vs. 36% in the major depression group vs. 27% in the minor depression group, p =.001), and the major depression group (N = 25) was most likely to receive percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) (44% vs. 14% in the minor depression group vs. 24% in the no depression group). The minor depression group (N = 37) was least likely to be hospitalized for cardiac reasons during follow-up (54% vs. 80% in the major depression group vs. 80% in the no depression group, p =.005). Five-year rates of myocardial infarction and death did not differ significantly between groups. Proportional hazard models showed that those in the depression groups differed in time from catheterization to CABG (chi2(2) = 11.9, p =.003) and time to PCTA (chi2(2) = 7.74, p =.02) after controlling for relevant covariates. Median regression showed that patients with no depression had higher costs during the first year but tended to have lower costs in years 2 through 5 than patients with minor or major depression. CONCLUSIONS:Depression status at angiography is associated with the need for revascularization and total healthcare costs for the following year.
Flex testing of natural and butyl rubber

Abstract Interspersed fatigue (pulsating flexing) and creep (dwell time) cycles were applied to samples of natural and butyl rubber at room temperature, lab-air conditions. In this experimental program the natural rubber was found to be sensitive to the application of dwell times under peak load conditions. Cavities and cracking were observed as a result of dwell time lowering its resistance to interspersed fatigue and creep cycles. On the other hand, flexing resistance of butyl rubber was found to be inferior to natural rubber. These results are presented in this technical note.
Dissolution deceleration of calcium phosphate crystals at constant undersaturation

The dissolution of dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (CaHPO4·2H2O) and octacalcium phosphate (Ca8H2(PO4)6·5H2O) has been followed as a function of time at constant undersaturations. The rate, after correction for changes in crystal surface area, decreases with time in spite of the sustained driving force, suggesting a decrease in the density of active sites on the crystal surface. This deceleration becomes more pronounced as the undersaturation decreases, leading to an increase in the effective dissolution order. The results of experiments in both Ultrapure and Reagent grade electrolyte solutions suggest that gradual contamination of the crystal surface is unlikely to account for the rate deceleration which may be interpreted by a decrease in the dislocation density during dissolution.
Effects of acute ethanol administration on monoamine and metabolite content in forebrain regions of ethanol-tolerant and -nontolerant alcohol-preferring (P) rats

Abstract The contents of dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-HT) and their metabolites in the frontal cortex, anterior striatum, nucleus accumbens and hypothalamus of alcohol-tolerant and -nontolerant rats of the alcohol-preferring P line were determined one hour after the IP administration of 2.5 g ethanol/kg body wt. Compared with saline-injected controls, nontolerant P-rats injected with ethanol had (a) 60% higher levels of 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) and homovanillic acid (HVA) in the frontal cortex; (b) 30–60% higher levels of DOPAC and HVA in the anterior striatum and nucleus accumbens; and (c) 20% higher levels of 5-HIAA in all three forebrain regions. In the tolerant group, the effects of IP ethanol on DOPAC and HVA were markedly attenuated or completely eleminated in these three forebrain regions. However, in the case of 5-HIAA, an attenuated response was observed only in the nucleus accumbens of the tolerant group. The IP administration of ethanol had little effect on the contents of DA or 5-HT in any of these three forebrain regions, with the exception that 5-HT levels were elevated in the anterior striatum of both the tolerant and nontolerant groups. In the hypothalamus, there were no significant differences for the contents of DA, 5-HT or their metabolites between the nontolerant or tolerant P rats after IP ethanol. The data indicate that both acute ethanol administration and chronic alcohol intake by the P line of rats alters certain DA and 5-HT systems that may be involved in the brain reward circuitry and in DA pathways involved in motor functions.
Prolonged suppression of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 RNA during dual nucleoside reverse-transcriptase-inhibitor therapy in clinical practice.

Because there is limited information about suppression of virus loads (determined by current "ultrasensitive" assays) in patients receiving nucleoside reverse-transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) alone, we reviewed our experience in clinical practice with patients who had virus loads of 1 year of treatment with dual NRTIs.
Inactivation of Long-Acting Thyroid Stimulator (LATS) by Anti-kappa and Anti-lambda Antisera

ABSTRACT Tests were made of the ability of specific antisera against kappa- and lambda-type B chains of human immunoglobulin to inactivate the biologic activity of 7 different sera containing long-acting thyroid stimulator (LATS) globulin. In each instance serum LATS activity was inactivated partly by anti-kappa and partly by anti-lambda/antiserum, and the combined inactivation by both antisera approximated 100%. The findings are interpreted as showing that LATS globulin is not the product of a cell line derived by a monoclonal selection process. In addition, the results add further evidence confirming the immunoglobulin nature of LATS.
Neutron emission and the tritium content associated with deuterium-loaded palladium and titanium metals

An experimental investigation has been conducted on samples of palladium and titanium metals which have been loaded with deuterium through the electrolysis of D2O and by absorption of D2 gas. In approximately 200 experiments on 25 cells, statistically significant evidence for neutron emission was obtained in three separate experiments from one palladium cathode. Observed rates are 3–4 times the background rate and correspond to source strengths up to 50 neutrons/min. The pulse height response of the NE213 liquid scintillator-based detectors corresponds to that expected for 2.45 MeV neutrons. Tritium has been identified in nine Pd−Ni electrolytic cells, at levels corresponding 1012–1016 atoms. Activity buildup curves indicate that the apparent production occurs over a time period as short as a few hours.
Hemodynamic sequelae of idioventricular pacemaking in complete heart block

Abstract Systemic arterial and right heart pressure curves are reviewed in 3 patients with complete heart block. In all three the ventricles were driven by ventricular pacemakers so that the normal sequence of atrioventricular contraction was absent. Some of the hemodynamic consequences of such idioventricular pacemaking are reviewed, and the important role played by atrial systole in ventricular filling is emphasized.
A polyamide from bisacid A2 and p-phenylenediamine: Synthesis, properties, and fiber formation

The synthesis, characterization, and processing of a new polyamide which is formed from bisacid A2 and p-phenylenediamine are reported. The polymer is synthesized using low-temperature solution polycondensation methods. The conditions for producing high molecular weight polymer are described. The polymer produced is amorphous, but lower molecular weight varieties may be crystallized with a formic acid treatment. Differential scanning calorimetry indicates a transition in the range of 180–190°C. Mechanical properties of films are measured. Fibers have been produced by both melt and wet spinning.
Recycling Dead Hens by Enzyme or Sodium Hydroxide Pretreatment and Fermentation

Abstract This study was conducted to evaluate the recycling of whole dead hens into feed ingredients by enzyme or sodium hydroxide pretreatment and fermentation. Evaluation criteria included nutrient preservation, pathogenic microorganism elimination, and assays of nutritional quality. The pH levels of enzyme- and NaOH-treated hen carcasses decreased from 6.01 and 7.66 to 4.18 and 4.24, respectively, during the 21-d fermentation. Hydrogen sulfide levels were not detected on Days 1 and 3 from the enzyme treatment; however, high levels (800 ppm) were measured from the NaOH treatments. By Day 21, H2S levels of both treatments had decreased to 78 ppm. The control, enzyme, and NaOH treatments before fermentation contained high levels of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus; however, after fermentation, these potential pathogens were eliminated in the enzyme and NaOH treatments. Levels of CP, EE, and ash of the control product were higher than either the enzyme or NaOH treatment. NaOH reduced pepsin digestibility by 11% compared to the enzyme treatment. In a bioassay, the chicks fed control autoclaved hen meal (CHM) had higher (P
A rapid method for the isolation of rat liver plasma membranes using an aqueous two-phase polymer system

Abstract A simple and rapid method for the isolation of rat liver plasma membranes has been developed using an aqueous two-phase polymer (dextran-polyethylene-glycol system). Yields and purity of this preparation were determined and compared to membranes obtained by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. The technique as described in this paper provides: 1. 1. The highest reported yield of plasma membrane when compared to other methods. 2. 2. A high degree of purity determined by enzyme assays of the plasma membrane fraction, that is comparable to other separation techniques. 3. 3. A simple and rapid method, requiring only low speed centrifugations, decreasing membrane preparation time by 2–3 hr.
The Story Behind the Science: Bringing Science and Scientists to Life in Post-Secondary Science Education

With funding from the United States National Science Foundation, 30 historical short stories designed to teach science content and draw students’ attention to the nature of science (NOS) have been created for post-secondary introductory astronomy, biology, chemistry, geology, and physics courses. The project rationale, story development and structure, and freely available stories at the project website are presented.
Mutation in KIF5A can also cause adult-onset hereditary spastic paraplegia.

Autosomal dominant hereditary spastic paraplegia (AD HSP) linked to chromosome 12q (SPG10) is caused by mutations in the neuronal kinesin heavy-chain KIF5A gene. This is a rare cause of AD HSP, and only two disease-causing mutations have been reported thus far. In both instances, affected individuals harboring mutations in the KIF5A gene displayed symptom onset at a very early age. Here we present the results of clinical and genetic analyses of a large kindred with uncomplicated AD HSP. We were able to establish a definitive linkage to the SPG10 locus, and sequencing of the KIF5A gene revealed a heterozygous missense mutation 1,035 A>G in exon 10, resulting in tyrosine-to-cysteine substitution. This mutation is located in a highly conserved kinesin motor domain of the neuronal kinesin heavy-chain protein, but in contrast to two previously reported missense mutations, the age of symptom onset in our family was much later, with an average age of 36.1±4 years. Our results demonstrate that mutations in the KIF5A gene can also be associated with an adult age of onset of AD HSP.
On the location of the maximum homogeneous crystal nucleation temperature

Detailed considerations are given to the location of the temperature of maximum homogeneous nucleation as predicted by classical nucleation theory. It is shown quite generally that this maximum temperature, T-asterisk, must occur above the Kauzmann temperature and that the T-asterisk is such that T-asterisk is greater than T(m)/3, where T(m) is the melting temperature. Also, it is demonstrated tha T-asterisk may be considered to be approximately dependent upon two parameters: gamma, the ratio of the difference in specific heat between the crystal and liquid divided by the entropy of fusion, and E, a reduced activation energy for viscous flow. The variation of T-asterisk with these parameters is described. The relationship of the relative location of T-asterisk to the glass transition temperature, is discussed too. This discussion is couched within the framework of the strong and fragile liquid notion introduced by Angell (1981) and coworkers. Finally, the question of the ultimate limits to the undercooling of liquid metals is considered and its relationhsip to computations of the maximum nucleation temperature in such systems.
The Gent-McWilliams parameterization: 20/20 hindsight

It has now been 20 years since the Gent and McWilliams paper on ‘‘Isopycnal Mixing in Ocean Circulation Models” was published in January 1990 issue of the Journal of Physical Oceanography. That paper was highlighted at the CLIVAR Working Group on Ocean Model Development ‘‘Workshop on Ocean Mesoscale Eddies” which was held at the UK Meteorological Office in April 2009, and this review paper is based on the talk given at that Workshop. It contains some hindsights on how the parameterization of the effect of mesoscale eddies on the mean flow came about; which is a question that I am asked quite often. A few important results from including the parameterization in a non-eddy-resolving ocean model are recalled. Including this parameterization, along with other improvements to all the components, in the first version of the Community Climate System Model resulted in the first non-drifting control simulation in a climate model that did not require flux corrections. Also included are brief comments on how the Gent and McWilliams eddy parameterization has been modified and improved since the original proposal in 1990.
User evaluation of correctness conditions: a case study of cooperability

In order to find and fix concurrency bugs, programmers must reason about different possible thread interleavings -- context switches may occur at any program point, all with the potential for thread interference. To reduce the number of thread interference points to consider, the correctness criterion of cooperability ensures that code executes as if context switches may happen only at specific yield annotations. This paper provides empirical evidence that co-operability makes it easier to find concurrency bugs.
A Diffusion Scrubber for the Collection of Gaseous Nitric Acid

Abstract A diffusion denuder with a thin anion exchanger membrane tube as the collecting element and with a scrubber solution flowing in a narrow annular gap outside the membrane is described. The use of this device with a dilute sulfate-sulfamic acid solution as scrubber has been exploited for collecting nitric acid. The method is essentially free from interference due to NO2, and response characteristics are described for a continuous flow application. Direct UV detection, used to demonstrate response characteristics in the continuous monitoring mode, is not sufficiently sensitive for the measurement of low levels of ambient gaseous HNO3.
Separate justice: An analysis of race differences in court processes

We examine the hypothesis that the criminal justice system operates differently for blacks and whites, using a covariance model to test for the existence of differences between racial groups in the effects of social background and procedural factors on criminal court outcomes. Our study employs data from simple random samples of court case records in North Carolina. Four case outcomes at each of two court levels are investigated. Findings suggest that (1) black defendants face different processes than whites at numerous stages of the criminal justice process; (2) the nature of these differences is not uniform across various stages and at different court levels; and (3) when racial differences in processing occur, they are likely to occur at stages prior to final sentencing. Our discussion explores the implications of these findings for the validity of (1) conclusions drawn from earlier research; and (2) traditional theoretical explanations for criminal justice discrimination.
Expression of neuronal intermediate filament proteins ON1 and ON2 during goldfish optic nerve regeneration: Effect of tectal ablation

Abstract Goldfish retinal explants were used to study optic tectum participation in the regulation of intermediate filament protein synthesis in retinal ganglion cells during optic nerve regeneration. Retinas were explanted at various times after removal of the contralateral optic tectum. The synthesis of the intermediate filament proteins ON 1 and ON 2 in the cultures was quantitated by labeling with [ 35 S]methionine, followed by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, autoradiography, and densitometry. Neuritic growth from the explants was quantitated based on fiber length and density. In retinal explants placed in culture after 23 days of optic nerve regeneration, the synthesis of ON 1 , and ON 2 was reduced when the tectum had been ablated. In contrast, synthesis of these proteins in explants placed in culture at an earlier stage of regeneration was not affected by tectal ablation. At all time points tested, neuritic outgrowth from retinal explants was stimulated by tectal ablation. These findings indicate that the synthesis of the ON 1 and ON 2 intermediate filament proteins during regeneration is not directly regulated by axonal volume. Further, our findings suggest that interaction between growing axons and tectum is important for sustained expression of these proteins during the later stages of optic nerve regeneration.
AtRabD2b and AtRabD2c have overlapping functions in pollen development and pollen tube growth

Rab GTPases are important regulators of endomembrane trafficking, regulating exocytosis, endocytosis and membrane recycling. Many Rab-like proteins exist in plants, but only a subset have been functionally characterized. Here we report that AtRabD2b and AtRabD2c play important roles in pollen development, germination and tube elongation. AtrabD2b and AtrabD2c single mutants have no obvious morphological changes compared with wild-type plants across a variety of growth conditions. An AtrabD2b/2c double mutant is also indistinguishable from wild-type plants during vegetative growth; however its siliques are shorter than those in wild-type plants. Compared with wild-type plants, AtrabD2b/2c mutants produce deformed pollen with swollen and branched pollen tube tips. The shorter siliques in the AtrabD2b/2c double mutant were found to be primarily due to the pollen defects. AtRabD2b and AtRabD2c have different but overlapping expression patterns, and they are both highly expressed in pollen. Both AtRabD2b and AtRabD2c protein localize to Golgi bodies. These findings support a partially redundant role for AtRabD2b and AtRabD2c in vesicle trafficking during pollen tube growth that cannot be fulfilled by the remaining AtRabD family members.
Thymosin β4 Is Not Required for Embryonic Viability or Vascular Development

Rationale:Rossdeutsch et al describe a requirement for thymosin β4 (Tβ4) in vascular development. Impaired mural cell migration, differentiation, partial embryonic lethality, and hemorrhaging were observed after analysis of 2 lines of mice, one of which was germline null for Tβ4 and another in which Tβ4 was knocked down by endothelial-specific expression of Tβ4 short hairpin RNA. These data are in direct contrast to our published global and cardiac-specific Tβ4-knockout lines. Thus, the role of Tβ4 needs to be clarified to understand its importance in cardiovascular development. Objective:To investigate and clarify the role of Tβ4 in vascular smooth muscle cell development and vessel stability. Methods and Results:Examination of Tβ4 global knockouts did not demonstrate embryonic hemorrhaging, altered mural cell development, or lethality. Endothelial-specific knockouts also did not exhibit any embryonic lethality and were viable to adulthood. Conclusions:Analysis of our Tβ4 global and cardiac- and endothel...
The Historical Context of Water Quality Management for the Delaware Estuary

The Delaware Estuary, bounded by the states of Delaware, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, is located in one of the most complex urban-industrial regions in the United States. Water pollution of the estuary was observable over two centuries ago and progressively worsened until after World War II. Four distinct governmental responses to the pollution have led to the vastly improved water quality of today. A fifth-generation response, now being initiated, is oriented toward remaining problems, including toxic contamination of the water column, bottom materials and aquatic life. Changes in water quality and the institutional responses to pollution are traced to demonstrate the evolutionary process of water pollution control.
The Application of Compact Discs (CD-ROM) in the Atmospheric Sciences and Related Fields: An Update

Abstract This paper describes the current application of compact discs (CD-ROM) to the storage and distribution of datasets for atmospheric sciences and related disciplines. CD-ROM technology is reviewed, currently available discs are listed, and a look at future developments is provided.
Spectroscopic and computational studies of Co3+-corrinoids: spectral and electronic properties of the B12 cofactors and biologically relevant precursors.

The B12 cofactors methylcobalamin (MeCbl) and 5‘-deoxyadenosylcobalamin (AdoCbl) have long fascinated chemists because of their complex structures and unusual reactivities in biological systems; however, their electronic absorption (Abs) spectra have remained largely unassigned. In this study, we have used Abs, circular dichroism (CD), magnetic CD (MCD), and resonance Raman spectroscopic techniques to probe the electronic excited states of Co3+Cbl species that differ with respect to their upper axial ligand, including MeCbl, AdoCbl, aquacobalamin (H2OCbl+), and vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin, CNCbl). Also included to probe the effect of the lower axial ligand on the electronic properties of Cbls is Ado-cobinamide (AdoCbi+), an AdoCbl derivative that lacks the tethered base 5,6-dimethylbenzimidazole (DMB) and instead binds a water molecule in the lower axial position. Spectroscopic data for each species are analyzed within the framework of time-dependent density functional theory (TD-DFT) to assign the major ...
Head and neck paragangliomas

Background The purpose of this study was to describe the natural history and optimal treatment for head and neck paragangliomas (PGs). Methods Our methods were the review of the pertinent literature. Results PGs are rare tumors seen most commonly in the head and neck. Approximately 90% are sporadic; the remainder are familial and related to mutations of the succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) gene complex. Most PGs are benign and slow growing; 6% to 19% are malignant, as evidenced by the development of metastases. PGs may be treated by complete resection or moderate-dose radiotherapy with a ≥90% likelihood of cure. The optimal radiotherapy dose is approximately 45 Gy/25 fractions/5 weeks. The treatment modality selected depends on the risk of complications. Due to their rarity, the optimal treatment for malignant PGs is unclear. Conclusion PGs may be treated by either complete resection or radiotherapy with a high likelihood of success. Treatment depends on the location and extent of the PG and the morbidity associated with treatment. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Attenuation of High Amplitude Vibrations With Particle Dampers

Fluid transport systems are rarely at steady state. Transient phenomena, such as water hammer, can inflict severe physical damage. Repair costs can soar into the millions of dollars (Myers, 1997), and can reduce or even halt operation. Such high amplitude vibrations may be attenuated with particle dampers, which are beds of small particles placed in an attached enclosure or contained void. Vibration of the enclosure causes the particles to collide with each other and with the enclosure walls, resulting in energy dissipation through inelastic impacts and friction. Particle dampers have many advantages over conventional viscoelastic treatments including lower cost, increased robustness, greater effectiveness at high amplitudes and the ability to operate in extreme-temperature environments. Previous papers focus on exploration of sensitivity to design parameters, modeling techniques, and effective applications. However, there still remains much that is unknown about the phenomena and design of particle dampers. In this paper, experiments were performed to explore the effects of friction, excitation amplitude, and particle gap size. The formation of an oily residue on the colliding surfaces when certain materials were used increased friction and reduced damper effectiveness. This agrees with the theoretical prediction made by Mansour and Filho (1974). Damping was found to peak at an optimum gap size. Increasing the excitation amplitude resulted in higher damping and reduced sensitivity to the optimum gap size. Overall, the particle damper was deemed to be successful, increasing the loss factor of a clamped beam by over 10 times with a damper/structure mass ratio of only 0.016.© 2002 ASME
Imaging of the liver: a survey update of prevailing techniques for conventional CT scanning

A survey of the Society of Computed Body Tomography/Magnetic Resonance (SCBT/MR) was performed to assess current techniques in liver CT scanning. The study was designed as an update to a study performed in 1987. The survey was distributed to 67 members of the SCBT/MR at 35 institutions. Twenty-six institutions responded. As in 1987, none relied solely on noncontrast scans. In 1987, only 54% (12/22) of institutions performed contrast-enhanced scans as their primary technique compared with 73% (19/26) in 1993. Ionic contrast was used exclusively in the earlier study, whereas in the present study 58% used nonionic contrast in the majority of cases and 38% used nonionic contrast routinely. In 1987, 41% performed scans with a power injector compared with 85% in the present study. Enhanced scans were performed during the contrast bolus in 36% of institutions in 1987 compared with 76% in this study. No institution relied on noncontrast scans alone. In the previous study the delay between injection and scanning was variable (0–60 s), whereas in the present study 83% specified a delay of 21–45s. Significant refinements in CT technique, wider use of power injectors, utilization of nonionic contrast, and a more critical approach to optimize liver imaging have created a significant impact on the practice of liver CT.
Constituents of Mammea americana L. XII: Biological Data for Xanthones and Benzophenones

Sarcoma 180 inhibition data are presented for a number of related xanthones and benzophenones; a few showed significant activity. One of these was also tested in vivo against Ehrlich ascites tumor. Four hydroxyxanthones isolated from a polar extract of Mammea americana L. (Guttiferae) seeds did not account for the activity of the extract. The results of two antibacterial assays for a few of these compounds are also presented.
Glycosphingolipid inhibition of the adhesion of thrombin-activated platelets to surfaces is potentiated by albumin

Previous studies have shown that exogenous glycosphingolipids (GSLs) inhibit the adhesion of thrombin-activated platelets (TAP) to polystyrene plates coated with various RGD-ligands (where RGD is the peptide sequence Arg-Gly-Asp), suggesting that GSLs can modulate the platelet integrin receptor glycoprotein IIb-IIIa. However, albumin was always used as a plastic surface-blocking agent in these studies. In order to evaluate the role of albumin in these experiments, we studied the effect of various GSLs and albumin on the interaction between TAP and hydrophobic surfaces in a solid-phase assay using indium-111-labelled platelets and polystyrene plates. TAP (10(8) platelets/ml) adhered to polystyrene (half-saturation time 40 +/- 3 min) with a maximal adhesion density of 56 +/- 1 x 10(3) platelets/mm2. Platelet adhesion was only slightly affected ( 46% inhibition), but only after albumin was first immobilized to the plate. Covering albumin-coated polystyrene with MBG, followed by washing, was as effective as fluid-phase MBG at inhibiting platelet adhesion, thus indicating that a ganglioside-albumin interaction at the polystyrene surface was responsible for effective inhibition. When purified GSLs were substituted for MBG, it was found that all those tested (GT1b, GD1a, GM1, asialo GM1 and globoside) had similar inhibitory activity.
Effect of DC and AC Magnetic Fields on the Solidification Structure of Commercially Pure Aluminium

The effect of DC and AC magnetic fields on the macrostructure, morphology and distribution of the iron-containing intermetallics in the commercially pure Al was investigated. It is found that, at a cooling rate of 3°C/min, the grain is very coarse when the alloy solidifies both with and without magnetic fields. Comparing with the sample solidifies without magnetic field, the solidification structure has almost no change when it solidifies under DC magnetic field, while AC magnetic field changes the solidification structure obviously and makes grains show radial columnar crystals. The intermetallics is dominated by long needle-like phase when the sample solidifies under the condition of no magnetic field. Under AC magnetic field, the intermetallics is refined and accumulated towards the center of sample, and the amount of bone-like α-AlFeSi phase is increased remarkably. The mechanism of the effect of magnetic fields was discussed.
Local base station assignment with time intervals in mobile computing environments

Abstract Several telecommunication service providers are currently supplying data access services to mobile users who may connect and disconnect at any time. In order to ensure a high level of service, these firms must consider both load management issues as well as data access costs. We formulate several combinatorial optimization problems that arise in this context. In these problems, each user specifies a time interval during which data access is needed. The focus of our work is on two types of offline problems where each mobile user must be assigned a local base station. The first type considers this assignment problem under load constraints. The other seeks to minimize data access costs while satisfying the load constraints. When all the users connect at the same time, we show that the problems can be solved efficiently. However, if there are two or more distinct connect times, the problems become computationally intractable. For such problems, approximation algorithms with proven performance guarantees are presented. We also identify some special cases which can be solved efficiently.
Topographic EEG mapping of the relaxation response

The purpose of this study was to assess the central nervous system effects of the relaxation response (RR) in novice subjects using a controlled, within- subjects design and topographic EEG mapping as the dependent measure. Twenty subjects listened to a RR and control audiotape presented in a counterbalanced order while EEG was recorded from 14 scalp locations. The RR condition produced greater (p < .0164) reductions in frontal EEG beta activity relative to the control condition. No significant differences were observed for any other frequency band or scalp region. These findings suggest that elicitation of the RR produces significant reductions in cortical activation in anterior brain regions in novice subjects.
Linear Reasoning. A New Form of the Herbrand-Gentzen Theorem

In Herbrand's Theorem [2] or Gentzen's Extended Hauptsatz [1], a certain relationship is asserted to hold between the structures of A and A′, whenever A implies A′ (i.e., A ⊃ A′ is valid) and moreover A is a conjunction and A′ an alternation of first-order formulas in prenex normal form. Unfortunately, the relationship is described in a roundabout way, by relating A and A′ to a quantifier-free tautology. One purpose of this paper is to provide a description which in certain respects is more direct. Roughly speaking, ascent to A ⊃ A′ from a quantifier-free level will be replaced by movement from A to A′ on the quantificational level. Each movement will be closely related to the ascent it replaces.The new description makes use of a set L of rules of inference, the L-rules. L is complete in the sense that, if A is a conjunction and A′ an alternation of first-order formulas in prenex normal form, and if A ⊃ A′ is valid, then A′ can be obtained from A by an L-deduction, i.e., by applications of L-rules only. The distinctive feature of L is that each L-rule possesses two characteristics which, especially in combination, are desirable. First, each L-rule yields only conclusions implied by the premisses.
The episodic acidification of a stream with elevated concentrations of dissolved organic carbon

Organic acids are generally thought to play a minor role in the episodic acidification of streams in the USA. In this study, we investigated the episodic acidification of a stream at the Hubbard Brook Experimental Forest in New Hampshire with high concentrations of dissolved organic carbon and naturally occurring organic acids. We studied three events in 2001: spring snowmelt, which occurred from 6 April to 14 May and resulted in two distinct melt events; and two rain events, one on 17 June and the other on 17 July. During snowmelt events organic acids were a minor contributor to the short-term acidification of stream water, with increases in NO3− and dilution of base cations being the dominant mechanisms. During summer rainfall events, however, increases in inputs of organic acids were the dominant mechanism of episodic acidification when soil water was the dominant contributor to stream discharge (59 to 66% of peak stream discharge). We also found that precipitation events occurring after relatively wet antecedent conditions (17 July event) resulted in more severe acid episodes than events that followed drier antecedent conditions (17 June event). The minimum acid neutralizing capacity (ANC) was only −19 µeq l−1 for the 17 June event, whereas the minimum ANC for the 17 July event was much lower (−62 µeq l−1) although the total rainfall amount was similar for the two events. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transient response of CdS/CdTe cells with heavy doping of Si, P and Cu

We have studied magnetron sputtered CdS/CdTe cells having CdTe or CdS intentionally doped with either Si, P or Cu. This study was done to understand the effects of doping on the transient behavior and J-V performance of CdTe cells. Different chemical group elements were selected to see their comparative effects on cell response. In comparison with undoped CdTe, the cells with Si or P doping show enhanced transient effects. Although cells with pure CdS/CdTe show a slight increase in current with time during AM1.5 exposure, the doped CdTe cells exhibit short-circuit current decay or recovery with time. This device behavior will be related to the properties of the CdTe∶P, CdS∶Si and CdTe∶Si. We found that doping of Cu in CdTe is strongly detrimental to cell performance compared to about same amount of doping (∼1%) with Si and P‥
2‐Bromo‐1‐methylpyridinium Iodide

[52693-56-8] C6H7BrIN (MW 299.94) InChI = 1S/C6H7BrN.HI/c1-8-5-3-2-4-6(8)7;/h2-5H,1H3;1H/q+1;/p-1 InChIKey = DVAZKUDTZUIOQK-UHFFFAOYSA-M (dehydrative coupling and activation of alcohols) Preparative Methods: the title reagent (1a) as well as the chloro analog (1b) can be prepared by adding 1.2 equiv of MeI to an acetone solution of 2-bromo- or 2-chloropyridine at 0 °C. After stirring for 3 days at rt the precipitated pyridinium salt is filtered off and washed with dry ether. Further drying under vacuum results in 80–90% yield of the pyridinium salt as a colorless solid which may be used without further purification.2b,c
Precocial development of axial locomotor muscle in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus).

At birth, the locomotor muscles of precocial, terrestrial mammals are similar to those of adults in both mass, as a percent of total body mass, and fiber-type composition. It is hypothesized that bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), marine mammals that swim from the instant of birth, will also exhibit precocial development of locomotor muscles. Body mass data from neonatal and adult dolphins are used to calculate Grand's (1992) Neural and Muscular Indices of Development. Using these indices, the bottlenose dolphin is a Condition "3.5" neonate, where Condition 4 is the documented extreme of precocial development in terrestrial mammals. Moreover, myosin ATPase (alkaline preincubation) analyses of the epaxial locomotor m. extensor caudae lateralis show that neonatal dolphins have fiber-type profiles very similar to those of adults. Thus, based on mass and myosin ATPase activity, muscle development in dolphins is precocial. However, succinic dehydrogenase and Nile red histochemistry demonstrate that neonatal dolphin muscle has mitochondrial and lipid distributions different from those found in adults. These data suggest that neonates have a lower aerobic capacity than adults. Dolphin neonates may compensate for an apparent lack of aerobic stamina in two ways: 1) by being positively buoyant, with a relatively increased investment of their total body mass in blubber, and 2) by "free-riding" off their mothers. This study investigates quantitatively the development of a dolphin locomotor muscle and offers suggestions about adaptations required for a completely aquatic existence.
How a Confucian Perspective Reclaims Moral Substance: An Introduction

What does a Confucian perspective bring to applied ethics? To begin with, as these essays show, Confucian moral experience has the promise of breaking free of the sterile and incomplete account of concrete moral problems that has become salient in the West, especially following the Enlightenment. Confucian thought relocates the context of moral reflection from what is taken for granted in contemporary, secular, post-traditional Western moral accounts to a context within which tradition discloses moral norms. In the latter, applied ethics is just that: it is primarily the task of applying an ethics, bringing general and abstract moral principles to bear on particular moral issues. For example, in the shadow of Immanuel Kant’s (1724–1804) account of morality, or, for that matter, the accounts of morality by Jeremy Bentham (1748–1832) and John Stuart Mill (1806–1873), it often appears appropriate to apply a universal moral rule to concrete moral issues. In the process, ethics is bifurcated into general theoretical reflections that stand over against practical conduct, which is dependent on the first from which it takes universal principles, or at least middle-level principles, in order to address concrete cases and circumstances. The idea is that if one could only get the general moral principles right, then all one needs to know is which principles or rules to apply to what concrete issues. The problem is that matters may be the reverse. It may be the concrete that actually guides moral choices, while the abstract is either one-sided and incomplete or at best a general summary of the concrete. Some in the modern West have understood that appeals to abstract moral principles are one-sided and incomplete, indeed inappropriate. G.W.F. Hegel (1770–1831), surely no Confucian, realized that the project of an abstract morality goes aground on the circumstance that abstract moral rationality is not sufficient to supply adequate substantive moral guidance (The Philosophy of Right, §§134–135). The character of the moral life and of concrete moral obligations cannot be derived just from applying universal moral rules to Dao (2010) 9:3–9 DOI 10.1007/s11712-009-9153-6
DIFFERENTIAL OPPRESSION THEORY AND FEMALE DELINQUENCY

The study of juvenile delinquency has focused almost exclusively on males. There are two reasons why: (1) more boys commit serious delinquency and boys commit more delinquency than girls and (2) men dominate the field of criminology. This paper takes a step toward opening a conversation about female delinquency by discussing it in terms of Regoli and Hewitt's theory of differential oppression. According to Regoli and Hewitt, girls in patriarchal society are doubly oppressed: they are oppressed as children and are oppressed as females. These "modes of oppression" account for both the lower rates of female delinquency as well as the particular adaptive reactions of girls to oppression, which include delinquency.
Forebrain ischemia and the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier.

Although the effects of cerebral ischemia on the blood-brain barrier have been extensively studied, the effects on the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB) at the choroid plexuses have received much less attention. This paper reviews evidence on the effects of cerebral ischemia on the choroid plexus, particularly focusing on the degree of blood flow reduction required to damage the lateral ventricle choroid plexuses during transient forebrain ischemia, and whether disruption of the BCSFB might affect nearby tissues.
Learning Near-Pareto-Optimal Conventions in Polynomial Time

We study how to learn to play a Pareto-optimal strict Nash equilibrium when there exist multiple equilibria and agents may have different preferences among the equilibria. We focus on repeated coordination games of non-identical interest where agents do not know the game structure up front and receive noisy payoffs. We design efficient near-optimal algorithms for both the perfect monitoring and the imperfect monitoring setting(where the agents only observe their own payoffs and the joint actions).
Composite Materials Processing

A broad overview of the most common choices in materials and process selection for manufacturing fibrous composite products. This overview is focused on high fiber-content, polymeric matrix composites, and the manufacturing processes dedicated to such composites materials. Nonpolymeric composites are also briefly discussed. Material choices for both matrix and reinforcement are discussed in the context of their implications on processability and the resultant material properties. An overview of current trends in process modeling and simulation for composites is also presented. Keywords: composite; matrix; processing; reinforcement; simulation
The Indispensable Enemy: Labor and the Anti-Chinese Movement in California

The purpose of this study is to examine the Chinese confrontation, on the Pacific Coast, as it was experienced and rationalized by the white majority. For reasons which will be evident in what follows, the main body of the work (chapters 3 through 11) will focus on the Democratic party and the labor movement of California through the forty-year period after the Civil War. The two opening chapters turn back to explore aspects of the Jacksonian background which appear crucial to an understanding of what occurred in California. The final chapter looks beyond the turn of the century to trace certain results of the sequence of events in the West for the labor movement as a whole, and to suggest the influence of those events upon the crystallization of an American concept of national identity.
Pressure-Induced Line Shift and Collisional Narrowing in Hydrogen Gas Determined by Stimulated Raman Emission

Comparison of the frequency of stimulated Raman scattering in hydrogen at different pressures yields the shift of the $Q[1]$ frequency. Amplification measurements in the backward direction enable us to measure the linewidth of the $Q[1]$ line to verify the theories on collisional narrowing.
Jointly modeling the relationship between longitudinal and survival data subject to left truncation with applications to cystic fibrosis

Numerous methods for joint analysis of longitudinal measures of a continuous outcome y and a time to event outcome T have recently been developed either to focus on the longitudinal data y while correcting for nonignorable dropout, to predict the survival outcome T using the longitudinal data y, or to examine the relationship between y and T. The motivating problem for our work is in joint modeling of the serial measurements of pulmonary function (FEV1% predicted) and survival in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients using registry data. Within the CF registry data, an additional complexity is that not all patients have been followed from birth; therefore, some patients have delayed entry into the study while others may have been missed completely, giving rise to a left truncated distribution. This paper shows in joint modeling situations where y and T are not independent, that it is necessary to account for this left truncation to obtain valid parameter estimates related to both survival and the longitudinal marker. We assume a linear random effects model for FEV1% predicted, where the random intercept and slope of FEV1% predicted, along with a specified transformation of the age at death follow a trivariate normal distribution. We develop an expectation-maximization algorithm for maximum likelihood estimation of parameters, which takes left truncation and right censoring of survival times into account. The methods are illustrated using simulation studies and using data from CF patients in a registry followed at Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital, Cleveland, OH.