cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Characterization of laboratory weathered labradorite surfaces using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy

Altered surfaces of labradorite resulting from laboratory weathering at pH 4 and 25°C were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). SEM micrographs showed nonuniform surface alteration of labradorite weathered at pH 3.7 for 415 days. TEM micrographs showed exsolution lamellae of a more calcic-rich and more sodic-rich phase, each averaging approximately 700 a thick. The more calcic phase was preferentially weathered to average depths of 1350 A in excess of the more sodic phase, producing a corrugated surface. The surface roughness caused by preferential weathering of the more calcic phase affects the relative exposure of calcic and sodic phases to the XPS detector. A three-dimensional analysis of possible surface exposures was used to predict the influence of a corrugated surface on XPS measurements. Actual XPS data showed significant Ca depletion, slight Al depletion, slight Si enrichment, and slight Na enrichment relative to unweathered labradorite. Sputter depth profiling with an Ar ion gun showed that surface alteration was significant up to depths of 500 A, similar to the depth of preferential weathering of the more calcic lamellae observed with TEM. Predicted XPS data accounting for the topographic effects of a corrugated surface showed similar trends of Ca depletion, slight Al depletion, slight Si enrichment, and moderate Na enrichment. Furthermore, predicted XPS sputter depth profiles of Ca, Al, Si, and Na were similar to actual sputter depth profiles, indicating that a significant amount of the surface alteration on labradorite can be explained by preferential weathering of the more calcic lamellae, and the subsequent surface roughness effects this has on XPS spectra. Other surface processes such as H+ or H3O+ exchange for Ca, Na, or Al and preferential weathering at sites of excess surface energy (dislocations, twin boundaries, etc.) not accounted for in the predicted XPS data may also contribute to the surface composition of weathered labradorite. Results showing preferential weathering of more calcic-rich lamellae and its effect on XPS spectra indicate the importance of understanding the micro-structure of feldspars used for laboratory weathering studies.
Antinicotinic action of nicotine and lobeline on frog sartorius muscle

Evidence is presented to show that nicotine and lobeline cause desensitization of frog sartorius muscle cells. Nicotine (3.3 to 166 μM) caused a dose-dependent depolarization. The membrane potential returned to control in 30–40 min in the presence of nicotine. The duration of the nicotine-induced depolarization was not related to the nicotine concentration. In contrast, the duration of the depolarization induced by carbachol (109–546 μM) decreased as the concentration of carbachol was increased.
Alternative strategies for mass spectrometer-based sample dilution of bioanalytical samples, with particular reference to DBS and plasma analysis.

Background: The analysis of bioanalytical samples has required a physical dilution of high-concentration samples to bring concentrations into the validated calibration range of an assay. Results: A reversed phase ultra-high performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for the quantitative analysis of pioglitazone in dried blood spots has been used to partially validate two novel techniques to analyze sample concentrations that lie above a particular calibration range. The first of the two techniques is mass spectrometer signal dilution, which consists of lowering the signal that reaches the detector. The second technique designated isotope signal ratio monitoring looks at [M+2]+1 ions (caused by naturally occurring isotopes) for samples above the upper limit of quantification. Conclusions: The newly developed methods have the potential to simplify the analysis of bioanalytical samples for which previously a physical dilution of the sample was required to bring analytes within the cali...
System and software engineering for a large-scale PACS

PACS research and development in the past decade mainly emphasized technical issues such as networking, archiving, data communication standards and image display workstation development. In order to fully realize the benefits of these advanced digital technologies in current and future radiology practice, a discipline for development of next generation PACS must be established and practiced. We devised and applied a development process or life cycle that facilitated PACS system definition, development and operation. With the application of the development process, user requirements and expectations of a PACS can be effectively and accurately transformed into system models, and the implementation and the operation of a PACS can be carried out in a systematic way. The development process also provides a framework for repeatable systems and software engineering.© (1995) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
X-ray observations of non-magnetic CVs in the ASCA era and beyond

Abstract Our ability to study the hard X-ray emission in non-magnetic CVs has improved dramatically within the last decade. We review the important results on X-ray eclipses and dips, the current state-of-the-art in the modeling of X-ray spectra of CVs, then present some recent results on the hard X-ray emission from high accretion rate non-magnetic CVs. These results point to potential areas of conflict with accretion disk theories: the fate of the inner disk in quiescence, and the amount of material above the orbital plane. We conclude with some speculations on where near-future X-ray missions might take this field over the next decade.
Characterization of the structure and polarity of twin boundaries in GaP

The structure of planar defects in GaP films grown by MBE on Si (110) was investigated by transmission electron microscopy. Growth of GaP films on the (110) surface produced numerous microtwins which formed both first and second order twin boundaries. Using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, the atomic structure of {Sigma} = 3 and {Sigma} = 9 twin boundaries were studied. Both the {Sigma} = 3 and {Sigma} = 9 interfaces were observed to facet along specific crystallographic planes. Geometric models of the {Sigma} = 9 {l_brace}221{r_brace} twin boundary accounting for different polar bonding configurations were proposed and compared with experimental observations.
Qualitative Special Education Research Purpose, Rigor, and Contribution

This two-part special issue on qualitative research makes a case for the strength and contribution of rigorous qualitative research and previews the articles selected for inclusion in the special issue, following an open call for papers. Six papers were chosen from a total of 50 submitted abstracts.
Seismicity and self-organized criticality

Abstract In this paper, the concept of self-organized criticality is related to seismicity. Self-organized criticality evolved from numerical studies of three simple models: The sandpile model, the slider-block model, and the forest-fire model. These models resemble each other and regional seismicity in their behavior. In this paper we present a simple multiplicative cascade model motivated by the forest-fire model that explains the behavior of self-organized critical models and the difference between criticality and self-organized criticality. This model also presents insights into the behavior of faults and their associated earthquakes.
Development of An Integrated Acoustical-Optical Platform for Detecting Groundfish

Traditional acoustical and trawl surveys have limitations on the study of groundfish species because they are close to the seafloor. A stationary underwater observatory that sits on the ocean bottom has the potential to provide accurate estimates of groundfish resources. The development of an ocean groundfish observing system for New England waters is described. The stationary acoustical-optical platform (AOP) system consists of an array of AOP elements, surface buoys, and a data collection station. Each AOP, equipped with embedded PC/104-Plus computers, is used to collect sonar data, video images, and environmental data. A buoy provides space for a telemetry system and for solar panels to charge the underwater battery. The data collection station retrieves data from the embedded computers and is used to store a large volume of collected data. An adaptive background model is utilized to help detect fish targets; stereo cameras are employed to estimate fish length. This ocean observing system integrates acoustical and optical techniques and can be employed to assess groundfish species distribution, abundance, and biomass in the offshore waters of New England.
1-GHz, 200/spl deg/C, SiC MESFET Clapp oscillator

A SiC Clapp oscillator fabricated on an alumina substrate with chip capacitors and spiral inductors is designed for high-temperature operation at 1GHz. The oscillator operated from 30/spl deg/C to 200/spl deg/C with an output power of 21.8dBm at 1GHz and 200/spl deg/C. The efficiency at 200/spl deg/ C is 15%. The frequency variation over the temperature range is less than 0.5%.
Radiation management and credentialing of fluoroscopy users.

During the last 15 years, developments in X-ray technologies have substantially improved the ability of practitioners to treat patients using fluoroscopically guided interventional techniques. Many of these procedures require a greater use of fluoroscopy and more recording of images. This increases the potential for radiation-induced dermatitis and epilation, as well as severe radiation-induced burns to patients. Many fluoroscope operators are untrained in radiation management and do not realize that these procedures increase the risk of radiation injury and radiation-induced cancer in personnel as well as patients. The hands of long-time fluoroscope operators in some cases exhibit radiation damage—especially when sound radiation protection practices have not been followed. In response, the Center for Devices and Radiological Health of the United States Food and Drug Administration has issued an Advisory calling for proper training of operators. Hospitals and administrators need to support and enforce the need for this training by requiring documentation of credentials in radiation management as a prerequisite for obtaining fluoroscopy privileges. A concerted effort on the part of professional medical organizations and regulatory agencies will be required to train fluoroscopy users to prevent physicians from unwittingly imparting serious radiation injuries to their patients.
Characterization of cellular density and determination of neointimal extracellular matrix constituents in human lower extremity vein graft stenoses.

Abstract Arterial restenosis has been attributed to a hyperproliferative smooth muscle cell response. Paradoxically, studies of human coronary atherectomy and vein graft stenotic lesions have demonstrated a relatively low nuclear proliferative rate with the majority of the neointimal mass consisting of extracellular matrix. The purpose of the present study was to characterize the cellular density and determine the relative composition of the extracellular matrix protein constituents in stenotic, human lower extremity vein-bypass graft lesions. Methods: Duplex surveillance of 148 consecutive infrainguinal bypass grafts identified 17 patients with 22 pre-occlusive autogenous vein graft stenoses (mean graft age 7 months). Morphological analyses of these stenotic lesions were compared with excised samples of 20 greater saphenous vein segments taken at the time of graft implantation from matched control patients. Intimal and medial areas were compared and cell density was determined with fluorescent nuclear (Bisbenzimide) staining. Differential light microscopy with pentachrome staining was performed to determine the relative percent composition of intimal matrix constituents by stereological morphometric (point-count) techniques. Results: The intimal areas for control and stenotic vein segments were 1.64×106 μm2 and 3.85×106 μm2, P
Effects of High Glucose on Human Cavernous Endothelial Cells

Objective To obtain experimental evidence for a causal effect of high glucose (HG) on cavernous endothelial dysfunction. Methods Cavernous tissues were obtained from patients undergoing surgery for penile prosthesis implantation. Endothelial cells were isolated by binding to anti-CD31 antibody, followed by magnetic capture. Their endothelial identity was verified by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence staining for endothelial markers CD31, von Willebrand factor, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase, and by their ability to form tube-like structures in matrigel (tube formation) and to endocytose acetylated low-density lipoprotein (low-density lipoprotein uptake). The cells were then cultured under normal glucose (NG) (5 mM) or HG (25 mM) conditions, followed by analysis for endothelial gene expression, function, proliferation, apoptosis, and mitochondrial fragmentation. Results Human cavernous endothelial cell (HCEC) strains were established and determined to be nearly 100% pure endothelial cells. In the HG culture condition, HCECs expressed approximately 50% less CD31, von Willebrand factor, and endothelial nitric oxide synthase, but nearly twice as much collagen IV compared with HCECs grown in NG medium. HG also suppressed low-density lipoprotein uptake and tube formation by approximately 50%. HCECs grew significantly slower in the high-glucose medium than in the NG medium. Approximately 3 times as many cells exhibited apoptosis in the HG medium as in the NG medium. Approximately 4 times as many cells contained fragmented mitochondria in the HG medium as in the NG medium. Conclusion HG caused a decrease in endothelial proliferation, function, and marker expression. It also caused an increase in endothelial collagen IV expression, apoptosis, and mitochondrial fragmentation. Together, these HG-induced changes in cavernous endothelial cells provide an explanation for hyperglycemia's detrimental effects on erectile function.
The reproducibility and comparability of tests of the peripheral chemoreflex : comparing the transient hypoxic ventilatory drive test and the single-breath carbon dioxide response test in healthy subjects

Both the transient hypoxic ventilatory drive test and the single-breath carbon dioxide (CO2) response test have been used to assess peripheral chemoreflex sensitivity. We tested their comparability in 14 healthy adults (10 men, aged 31-73 years, mean 55.4 years). The within-subject reproducibility of both tests was also assessed (n = 7 for each). The mean transient hypoxic ventilatory response was 0.287 +/- 0.0591 min-1 (%Sao2)-1 (mean +/- SEM, range 0.018- 0.718) and single-breath CO2 response was 0.276 +/- 0.0411 min-1T-1 (range 0.081-0.501). Both tests were reproducible with a mean coefficient of variation of 20.1% and 17.7%, respectively. There was, however, no significant correlation between the results of the transient hypoxic and single-breath CO2 tests when data were compared by linear regression analysis (r = 0.23, P = 0.43), suggesting that separate pathways of the peripheral chemoreflex existed for hypoxia and hypercapnia, respectively, and that these tests were specific for each. The authors conclude that these tests are reproducible but need to be used in combination for an adequate assessment of the peripheral chemoreflex.
A simple differential diffusion model to account for the discrepancy between 223Ra- and 224Ra-based eddy diffusivities

[1] A series of 223Ra (t1/2 = 11.4 d) and 224Ra (t1/2 = 3.66 d) measurements made in the Mid-Atlantic Bight yield eddy diffusivity (K) estimates of 1.2 ± 0.3 × 102 m2 s−1 and 1.4 ± 0.2 × 102 m2 s−1, respectively. These results fall in line with previous studies from multiple locations throughout the ocean, in which 224Ra-based eddy diffusivities invariably exceed those determined using 223Ra. Such a pattern conflicts with the Fickian model for eddy diffusivity, in which K is constant. Moreover, this trend runs counter to the length scale-dependent view of eddy diffusion, which suggests that K values estimated using 223Ra should exceed those of 224Ra, because the length scale of the former is greater than that of the latter. A finite mixing-length model based on the concept of differential diffusion is used to provide an explanation for this discrepancy.
On the existence of linear trend free block designs

We present a class of counerexamples for a conjecture on the existence or linear trend free block designs we will also prove a considerably weakened version of this conjecture which will determine all combinations of designs parmetres for which the class of linear trend free block designs is non empty.
A membrane electrode for nitrate and other univalent anions.

Abstract A membrane electrode has been developed which is responsive to nitrate and other univalent anions but non-responsive to sulphate and other multivalent anions and to cations other than hydrogen. The membrane is prepared by polymerizing a mixture of phenol, formaldehyde, ammonia and nickel nitrate directly to a film for mounting in the usual cell-with-membrane assembly. Response to hydrogen ion is 0.30 mV per pH unit, to nitrate 0.60 mV per pNO 3 (activity) unit. Based on chemical composition and behaviour, physical properties, and electrical response, a structure and mechanism for exchange with hydrogen ion and nitrate ion and for internal electrical conduction has been postulated. Applications have been made to the determination of nitrate and to the detection of end-points.
Modus Tollens Probabilized

We establish a probabilized version of modus tollens, deriving from p(E H) = a and p(E) = b the best possible bounds on p(I). In particular, we show that p(R) -+ 1 as a, b -~ 1, and also as a, b -- 0.
Direct comparison of efficiency and stability of gene transfer into the mammalian heart using adeno-associated virus versus adenovirus vectors.

Abstract Objective Recent gene therapy strategies have relied on the use of adenovirus or plasmid as vehicles for gene delivery to the heart. These approaches have been limited by low transduction frequencies and transient transgene expression. We sought to determine whether adeno-associated virus produces more stable, higher efficiency gene expression in the rodent heart than did previous conventional methods. Methods Two recombinant viral constructs were made: an adeno-associated virus containing the lacZ gene under the control of the cytomegalovirus promoter (AAV-lacZ) and an adenovirus expressing lacZ under the control of the same promoter (Adeno-lacZ). Twenty rats were injected (into the ventricular apex) with 1 × 10 7-8 genomic particles of each virus. Animals were put to death at serial time points and transgene expression quantitated by β-galactosidase activity, myocardial staining, and Western blot protein analysis. Results Three months after adeno-associated virus gene transfer, animals demonstrated stable β-galactosidase expression in 60% of cardiomyocytes without evidence of myocardial inflammation/necrosis. The distribution and degree of protein expression and number of positive cells at 3 months were equivalent to transgene expression at 4 weeks. Adeno-associated virus was not detected in organs other than the heart. In contrast, Adeno-lacZ animals displayed transient β-galactosidase activity in 60% of cardiomyocytes, which was undetectable 4 weeks after gene transfer. Adenovirus-treated animals manifest significant myocardial inflammation and had transgene expression in other organs. Conclusion Direct intramyocardial injection of an adeno-associated virus vector programs stable, long-term, cardiac-specific transgene expression in the rodent heart for up to 3 months. Our results suggest adeno-associated virus has significant advantages for long-term transgene expression in the heart compared to adenovirus vectors.
Analyzing Planning Alternatives Using Electronic Spreadsheets

The electronic spreadsheet is a type of software which allows information to be laid out on a table that automatically com putes and presents the results The real power of the electronic spreadsheet lies in their allowing the user to make changes and ask "what if" questions This article discusses the use of the electronic spread sheet as a tool for the analysis of planning alternatives.
A non-Hausdorff model for the complement of a complexified hyperplane arrangement

Given a hyperplane arrangement A in a real vector space V, we introduce a real algebraic prevariety Z(A), and exhibit the complement of A in the complexification of V as the total space of an affine bundle over Z(A) with fibers modeled on the dual vector space V v .
The nanogranular nature of C–S–H

Abstract Despite its ubiquitous presence as binding phase in all cementitious materials, the mechanical behavior of calcium–silicate–hydrates (C–S–H) is still an enigma that has deceived many decoding attempts from experimental and theoretical sides. In this paper, we propose and validate a new technique and experimental protocol to rationally assess the nanomechanical behavior of C–S–H based on a statistical analysis of hundreds of nanoindentation tests. By means of this grid indentation technique we identify in situ two structurally distinct but compositionally similar C–S–H phases heretofore hypothesized to exist as low density (LD) C–S–H and high density (HD) C–S–H, or outer and inner products. The main finding of this paper is that both phases exhibit a unique nanogranular behavior which is driven by particle-to-particle contact forces rather than by mineral properties. We argue that this nanomechanical blueprint of material invariant behavior of C–S–H is a consequence of the hydration reactions during which precipitating C–S–H nanoparticles percolate generating contact surfaces. As hydration proceeds, these nanoparticles pack closer to center on-average around two characteristic limit packing densities, the random packing limit ( η = 64 % ) and the ordered face-centered cubic (fcc) or hexagonal close-packed (hcp) packing limit ( η = 74 % ), forming a characteristic LD C–S–H and HD C–S–H phase.
On a Cramér-von Mises-Type Statistic for Testing Symmetry

Abstract A Cramer-von Mises-type statistic for testing symmetry, proposed independently by Orlov (1972) and Rothman and Woodroofe (1972), is decomposed into components in the manner of Durbin and Knott (1972); the components are found to be related to Fourier series expansions of the underlying distribution function. Asymptotic power properties of the statistic and its components in testing symmetry about the origin against location shift alternatives when observations have double exponential or normal distributions are described. From these power considerations, it is suggested that the first component is a more useful statistic for the testing problem than the overall Cramer-von Mises-type statistic. The components are shown to be asymptotically equivalent to linear rank statistics. On the basis of computational convenience, a new linear rank statistic for testing symmetry, the analog of the first component, is proposed.
Effects of purine antagonists on the metabolism of other purine antagonists.

Abstract The effects of azaserine, thioguanine and 6-mercaptopurine on the metabolism of 4-aminopyrazolopyrimidine-14C and of 4-aminopyrazolopyrimidine on the metabolism of thioguanine-14C and of 6-mercaptopurine-14C have been studied in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma and ascites sarcoma-180. Azaserine, thioguanine and 6-mercaptopurine not only enhanced the inhibition of tumor growth by 4-aminopyrazolopyrimidine, but also increased the amount of incorporation of the analog into tumor polynucleotides. Enhancement of the size of the pool of 4-aminopyrazolopyrimidine mononucloetides was evident during dual treatment with azaserine and thioguanine. The amount of incorporation of radioactivity from labeled 6-mercaptopurine into polynucleotides was decreased by 4-aminopyrazolopyrimidine, while little change in the size of the labeled mononucleotide pool was evident. The therapeutic effectiveness of thioguanine was increased by the co-administration of 4-aminopyrazolopyrimidine and the amount of incorporation of thioguanine into nucleic acids was somewhat increased by 4-aminopyrazolopyrimidine. These results are discussed with respect to present hypotheses concerning the anabolic conversion of purine analogs into their active derivatives.
Yeast IME2 functions early in meiosis upstream of cell cycle-regulated SBF and MBF targets.

Background In Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the G1 cyclin/cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) complexes Cln1,-2,-3/Cdk1 promote S phase entry during the mitotic cell cycle but do not function during meiosis. It has been proposed that the meiosis-specific protein kinase Ime2, which is required for normal timing of pre-meiotic DNA replication, is equivalent to Cln1,-2/Cdk1. These two CDK complexes directly catalyze phosphorylation of the B-type cyclin/CDK inhibitor Sic1 during the cell cycle to enable its destruction. As a result, Clb5,-6/Cdk1 become activated and facilitate initiation of DNA replication. While Ime2 is required for Sic1 destruction during meiosis, evidence now suggests that Ime2 does not directly catalyze Sic1 phosphorylation to target it for destabilization as Cln1,-2/Cdk1 do during the cell cycle. Methodology/Principal Findings We demonstrated that Sic1 is eventually degraded in meiotic cells lacking the IME2 gene (ime2Δ), supporting an indirect role of Ime2 in Sic1 destruction. We further examined global RNA expression comparing wild type and ime2Δ cells. Analysis of these expression data has provided evidence that Ime2 is required early in meiosis for normal transcription of many genes that are also periodically expressed during late G1 of the cell cycle. Conclusions/Significance Our results place Ime2 at a position in the early meiotic pathway that lies upstream of the position occupied by Cln1,-2/Cdk1 in the analogous cell cycle pathway. Thus, Ime2 may functionally resemble Cln3/Cdk1 in promoting S phase entry, or it could play a role even further upstream in the corresponding meiotic cascade.
CONFIDENCE INTERVALS FOR ABSORBING MARKOV CHAIN PROBABILITIES APPLIED TO LOAN PORTFOLIOS

The problem of estimating steady state absorption probabilities for first order stationary Markov chains having a finite state space is examined. As model parameters, these probabilities are analytic functions of transition probabilities Q and R, and they can be represented as P= (I-Q)-1R. Estimators P may be obtained by replacing the transition probabilities by their maximum likelihood estimators Q and Ř under multinomial theory. Using large sample multivariate normal theory, one can derive the asymptotic distribution of these estimators and can obtain large sample confidence intervals. Finally, an application related to estimating loss reserves for an installment loan portfolio assumed to satisfy a Markov chain is discussed.
A foundation for the risk-based treatment of gasoline-contaminated soils using modified Fenton's reactions.

Abstract The relative oxidation of representative aromatic and aliphatic hydrocarbons found in gasoline was evaluated to provide the foundation for risk-based treatment of petroleum-contaminated soils and groundwater using modified Fenton's reagent (catalyzed hydrogen peroxide). Aromatic components of gasoline are considered more hazardous than the aliphatic fractions due to their higher mobility in the subsurface and their higher acute and chronic toxicities. Benzene, toluene, and mixed xylenes (BTX) were selected as aromatic compounds representative of unleaded gasoline, while nonane, decane, and dodecane (NDD) were used as model aliphatic compounds. The effects of hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2 ) concentration, iron catalyst concentration, and pH on the degree of treatment of the model compounds were investigated using central composite rotatable experimental designs. Oxidation of the aromatic compounds required less iron and less H 2 O 2 than did oxidation of the aliphatic compounds, while proceeding more effectively at near-neutral pH. Greater than 95% of the BTX was treated at near-neutral pH using 2.5% H 2 O 2 and 12.5 mM iron (III), while only 37% nonane, 7% decane, and 1% dodecane oxidation was achieved under the same conditions. The results show that the more toxic and mobile aromatic fraction was more effectively oxidized using less H 2 O 2 and more economical conditions, including near-neutral pH, compared to the aliphatic fraction. A process design based on treating only the aromatic fraction of petroleum may provide significantly lower costs when using modified Fenton's reagent for the treatment of contaminated soils and groundwater.
Temperature programming and gradient elution in reversed-phase chromatography with packed capillary columns.

The two major anisocratic elution modes were compared in reversed-phase chromatography with 180 microns I.D. fused-silica capillary columns packed with 6 microns Zorbax SB ODS-silica. By evaluating the retention factors of alkylbenzenes at acetonitrile concentrations varying from 60 to 80% (v/v) in the aqueous eluent and in the temperature range of 30-80 degrees C, it was found that a 5 degrees C change in column temperature and a 1% change in acetonitrile concentration have almost the same effect on retention. This is illustrated by the almost identical chromatograms of an alkylbenzene sample obtained by temperature programming and by gradient elution under the same conditions otherwise and by simulation of the trajectories of the eluent peaks moving down the column. The results suggest that in reversed-phase HPLC with packed capillary columns temperature programming offers an alternative to gradient elution in a relatively narrow range of the required elution strength. Thermodynamic data from isocratic chromatographic measurements were used to predict the retention times of alkylbenzenes in reversed-phase chromatography with temperature programming at different heating rates and column inlet pressures. Temperature programming was used to separate beta-lactoglobulins A and B by reversed-phase chromatography. It was also employed concomitantly with gradient elution to enhance the separation of a mixture of four standard proteins. The results indicate that temperature programming could serve as an adjunct to gradient elution by means of fine retention tuning to bring about or increase the resolution of closely related macromolecules.
Game AI in Delta3D

Delta3D is a GNU-licensed open source game engine with an orientation towards supporting "serious games" such as those with defense and homeland security applications. AI is an important issue for serious games, since there is more pressure to "get the AI right", as opposed to providing an entertaining user experience. We describe several of our near-and longer-term AI projects oriented towards making it easier to build AI-enhanced applications in Delta3D.
Abstract 1407: Mechanistic regulation of NFκB dependent radioprotection in human neuroblastoma

Proceedings: AACR 101st Annual Meeting 2010‐‐ Apr 17‐21, 2010; Washington, DC Induced radio-resistance in cancer cells surviving after radiotherapy (RT) could be associated with increased radioprotection limiting the benefit of RT. Additionally, induced radioprotection may potentiate tumor re-growth at treatment site. Recently, we demonstrated that radiation (IR) induced NFκB in neuroblastoma cells and forced inhibition of NFκB enhanced IR-induced cell death. Accordingly, we investigated the downstream regulation involved in IR-induced NFκB-mediated radioprotection. Human SK-N-MC cells exposed to either low-dose IR (LDIR, 10, 50 and 100cGy), high dose IR (HDIR, 4Gy) or exposed to LDIR and challenged with HDIR after 24h were examined after 15min through 72h. EMSA analysis showed a marked and persistent activation of NFκB both in LDIR and HDIR exposed cells. Interestingly, cells primed with LDIR showed a robust NFκB activation when challenged with HDIR, as opposed to HDIR alone group. Consistently, we observed a significant suppression in HDIR induced DNA fragmentation (Tdt nick end labeling), apoptosis (Annexin V-FITC, caspase activity) and cytotoxicity (MTT) in cells primed with LDIR. Furthermore, clonogenic analysis revealed a profound attenuation of HDIR inhibited clonal expansion with preceding LDIR exposure. NFκB knockout (RelA siRNA) and over expression (p50, p65 transfection) studies demonstrate the influence of LDIR-activated NFκB in the regulation of HDIR induced DNA fragmentation and apoptosis. More importantly, LDIR significantly induced both transcriptional (QPCR) and cellular localization (immunoblotting) levels of radio-responsive TNFα, IL-1α, cMYC, MnSOD (SOD2 activity) and completely suppressed p53 in these cells. Co-culture experiments clearly portraits LDIR-influenced radioprotection and activation of radioresponsive molecules. Individual gene knockout (siRNA approach) studies exhibits that LDIR-modulated TNFα, IL-1α, cMYC, MnSOD and p53 mediates induced radioprotection. Furthermore, NFκB inhibition studies (ΔIκBα) demonstrated that TNFα, IL-1α, cMYC, MnSOD and p53 are selectively regulated by LDIR-induced NFκB. Collectively, these data strongly suggests that cells that survive a course of RT induce NFκB dependent radio-responsive TNFα, IL-1α, cMYC and MnSOD mediated radioprotection. Selectively targeting IR-induced NFκB could further potentiate the use of RT in neuroblastoma cell killing and mitigate tumor regrowth at treatment site. Funding Support: ACS- IRG-05-066-01; Presbyterian Health Foundation Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1407.
Upward streamers produced by a lightning strike to radio transmission towers

A lightning strike to the center of three 78-m radio transmission towers produced upward discharges with lengths of 40 and 79 m from each of the neighboring towers. This strike also caused a number of insulators on guy wires that supported the tower to flash over, and the locations of these points and the two-dimensional geometry of the discharge channels are projected onto a vertical plane that is centered on the tower.
Sunitinib, hypertension, and heart failure: a model for kinase inhibitor-mediated cardiotoxicity

Kinase inhibitors have emerged as an important new class of agents for the treatment of diverse tumors. Sunitinib malate is a small-molecule, oral, multi-kinase inhibitor approved for use in treating renal cell carcinoma and gastrointestinal stromal tumor. It has also demonstrated efficacy in treating pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and is being evaluated for the treatment of other cancers. Initially developed for its inhibition of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway, sunitinib has been associated with hypertension and heart failure. This review examines the incidence and severity of these adverse events, relevant findings from other agents that inhibit VEGF signaling, the mechanisms underlying these effects, and suggestions for their clinical management. Hypertension is a common adverse effect that is usually easily managed. The associated heart failure is less common; it can be reversible but must be actively monitored and managed. Mechanistic insights suggest that an attentive clinical strategy for hypertension could prevent severe cardiotoxicity.
Imaging Pediatric Sports Injuries: Lower Extremity

Injuries to pediatric athletes, which are becoming increasingly common, take the form of acute injuries and chronic overuse injuries. Acute injuries of the lower extremity include avulsions of the pelvic apophyses, muscle-tendon injuries, transient dislocation of the patella, ankle sprains, and acute tears of the anterior cruciate ligament and menisci. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the latter 2 injuries should approach the accuracy of MR imaging of the adult knee. Chronic overuse injuries of the lower extremity in this age group include stress fractures, which are most common in the tibia; ankle impingement syndromes; osteochondritis dissecans of the knee and osteochondral lesions of the talus; and traction apophysitis, most commonly presenting as Osgood-Schlatter disease and Sinding-Larsen-Johannson disease, affecting the patellar tendon. Imaging findings of all these lesions are characteristic, and allow radiologists to assist their clinical colleagues in diagnosing and treating pediatric athletic injuries.
Effects of gravity on regional and capillary blood flows in the human toe

Abstract The purpose of this study was to investigate the relative effects of gravity on capillary and regional blood flows in human extremities. Eighteen male subjects 20 to 40 years of age consented to have capillary blood cell velocity (CBV) measured in nailfold vessels of the large toe via video densitometry, and to have total blood flow (TBF) to the toe measured via plethysmography. These measurements were made first with the foot at heart level (HL), then after the foot had been lowered an average of 56 cm below the heart (BH). In the HL position CBV and TBF averaged respectively 0.26 mm/sec and 2.0 ml/min/100 ml. Lowering the foot elicited a decrease in CBV in all vessels studied ( P ⩽ 0.001). Average CBV in the BH position was 0.11 mm/sec. By contrast TBF on the average increased to 2.9 ml/min/100 ml in the BH position ( P ⩽ 0.05). However, this was not a consistent finding since both increases and decreases in TBF were observed among the individual subjects. These results indicate that the immediate precapillary vessels in the cutaneous circulation of the toe will consistently vasoconstrict when the foot is placed in a dependent position. However, the net effect on vessels governing regional flow in this area, e.g., AV shunts, appears to result from a competition between dilator and constrictor influences. The overall result of these adjustments is that during orthostasis blood is shifted away from the superficial capillaries of the lower extremities. The relevance of this to blood-tissue fluid balance is discussed.
Activator protein-1 DNA binding activation by hydrogen peroxide in neuronal and astrocytic primary cultures of trisomy-16 and diploid mice.

Abstract The effect of H2O2 on DNA binding activity of activator protein-1 (AP-1) was studied by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) in cortical primary cultures of trisomy-16 mice and their diploid littermates. Exposure to 10 μM H2O2 for 15 min elicited a greater and earlier occurring increase of AP-1 DNA binding in neuronal primary cultures of trisomy-16 mice than of diploid mice. When astrocyte-rich primary cultures were exposed to 10 μM H2O2 a two-fold increase of AP-1 DNA binding activity was found in trisomy-16 and diploid mice. Supershift EMSA analysis revealed that c-jun was a component of AP-1 in neuronal and glial cultures of diploid and trisomic mice. A 15-min exposure to 10 μM H2O2 increased c-jun mRNA in cortical neuronal cultures by six-fold, compared with a two-fold increase in cultured astrocytes. The results documented that H2O2-elicited activation of AP-1 DNA binding in trisomy-16 primary cultures is transcriptionally regulated. Since oxidative stress also activates various stress-inducible protein kinases that may phosphorylate AP-1 dimers, the increase of AP-1 DNA binding may, in part, be triggered by phosphorylation.
Aqueous photodegradation and toxicity of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons fluorene, dibenzofuran, and dibenzothiophene.

Abstract Decay kinetics resulting from the application of UV and UV/H 2 O 2 to the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) fluorene, dibenzofuran and dibenzothiophene was studied. Batch experiments were conducted with both low-pressure monochromatic (253.7 nm) and medium pressure polychromatic (200–300 nm) UV sources alone or in the presence of up to 25 mg/L hydrogen peroxide, in a quasi-collimated beam apparatus. Degradation of all three PAHs, by both UV and UV/H 2 O 2 , exhibited pseudo-first-order reaction kinetics and low quantum yields ranging from 1.4×10 −3 to 1.8×10 −2 mol/E using both UV lamps. Toxicity testing using a bioluminesence inhibition bioassay was correlated to the decay in concentration of the PAHs as analyzed analytically using HPLC. Results demonstrated that treatment efficacy of oxidative PAH degradation measured by following the decay of the target compound is best complemented by also evaluating the toxicity of the treated water due to byproduct formation concerns.
Critical behavior of the q-state clock model in three dimensions.

Monte Carlo simulation was used to study the critical behavior of the q-state clock model in three dimensions. The q-state clock model serves as a bridge between the Ising model (q=2) and the continuous XY model (q=\ensuremath{\infty}). For all values of q the clock models have second-order phase transitions with critical temperatures in the range bounded by those of the Ising and XY models. However, for 5q24 the clock models exhibit low-temperature single-spin excitations that are not present in the other models. The case of q=6 was used to study these features in detail.
Lung Sound Intensity Variability in Normal Men: A Contour Phonopneumographic Study

We describe and demonstrate a new lung sound measurement and display technique by which contour maps of lung sound intensity may be constructed. Using this technique, we have studied the lower posterolateral chest wall of ten healthy subjects. The data revealed an unexpectedly high degree of intersubject and intrasubject variation. The reason for this variation is obscure but probably relates to the basic mechanisms of production and transmission of lung sounds.
Mosaic Select: Toshiko Akiyoshi‐Lew Tabackin Big Band

Michael Cuscuna, producer. Boxed set of 3 CDs and a 16 pp. booklet. Original liner notes by Leonard Feather. 2008. Mosaic MS‐033. $44.00. Mosaic’s Toshiko Akiyoshi‐Lew Tabackin Big Band boxed set c...
Car Stereos and the Criminal Sanction: The Dangers of Too Much Social Control

Noise pollution is an ongoing problem in American cities, and car stereos are a major reason why large numbers of people are unhappy. Citizens are demanding regulation of “boom cars” and the typical policy response is to use the criminal sanction. The behavior is annoying, but hardly morally opprobrious. Despite the best intentions of those who propose such laws, they are potentially a bigger danger to civil liberties than the behavior that they purport to regulate. The enforcement of such laws does little to curb the behavior in question, but may function as a content-based regulation of certain types of music, provides opportunities for racial profiling, and may harm the legitimacy of the government thus reducing its ability to use its police power in areas which are more appropriate for the use of that power.
High-Energy Launcher for Commercial Transportation to Space

THE Space Shuttle with its winged Orbiter has paved the way for a further advance toward economical space travel. Since the Orbiter and its wings are designed for the dynamic pressures and heat loads of re-entry, they could also be used for lift during the acceleration to orbit. By using lift, nearly all of the acceleration of a space transporter could be in the direction needed for Earth orbit, i.e., a horizontal direction. In the search for methods for economical transportation to space, it is important to keep in mind the overall goal. This is to accelerate a space shuttle to about Mach 24 in a tangential (i.e., horizontal) direction to Earth as efficiently as possible. In this regard, there is one combination of methods that has not been discussed in the literature. This is the use of a highenergy, inclined, ground-based launcher to accelerate a space shuttle to a speed where ramjet engines can produce sufficient thrust to continue the acceleration up to about Mach 6. Above Mach 6, scramjet engines would be used, as long as advantageous, prior to using rocket engines for insertion into orbit. As can be determined from Ref. 1, a ground-based launcher will increase the propulsive efficiency over that with either rocket or turbojet engines during the initial acceleration. As shown in Ref. 2, ramjet engines are considerably lighter than turbofan or turbojet engines. As discussed in Ref. 3, scramjet technology has now been developed to the point where a large vehicle application is needed as a focal point for further advance. This combination of methods will provide excellent propulsive efficiency, and it will make maximum use of air augmentation which will greatly increase the specific impulse over that of rocket engines. This in turn means a very significant reduction in the gross takeoff mass of future space shuttles. An indication of the possible advantage of this concept can be obtained by extrapolating the conclusions of Ref. 4. This possible reduction in gross takeoff mass, along with the relatively low cost of ramjet engines and the possibility of designing a launcher with about a forty year life with low-operating costs, provides a potential for highvolume, commercial transportation to Earth orbit. As a first step, an inclined, ground-based launcher, which would use stored, compressed air for accelerating a winged, space transporter to a speed of 0.4 km/s and an altitude of between 150 and 300 m, is described. At this speed, it is assumed that the acceleration could be continued solely by the thrust of ramjet engines.
Observations of the 2-Day Wave in UARS MLS Temperature and Ozone Measurements

Mesospheric ozone and temperature data obtained by the Microwave Limb Sounder (MLS) on board the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (UARS) have been analyzed to elucidate quasi-two day wave activity. Data from January 1993 were analyzed to investigate the evolution and structure of the two day wave. During this period, the wave amplitude in ozone attained its maximum value in late January near 30° in the summer hemisphere. The evolution of the wave amplitude indicates a shift of the peak amplitude to higher latitudes with increasing height. Correlation of the two day wave phase observed in MLS ozone and temperature measurements indicates that the perturbations are out of phase. During the same period, the amplitudes of the perturbations in temperature and ozone were positively correlated. The results suggest that the variations in ozone are photochemically driven in the mesosphere region via changes in reaction rates that are strongly temperature dependent.
A concise regiospecific synthesis of 8,8-dimethyl-2H, 8H-pyrano[6, 5-h]quinolin-2-oneand related compounds

Abstract An efficient method for the regiospecific synthesis of 8,8-dimethyl-2H,8H-pyrano[6,5-h]quinolin-2-one and related compounds via a Claisen rearrangement is described.
Sex Difference in Mortality Rates of Leghorn—Red Reciprocal Crosses

Mortality rates among White Leghorn-Rhode Island Red pure-line and reciprocal cross adult female progeny were recorded for 8 years. The mortality rate among progeny of White Leghorn males exceeded that of the progeny of Rhode Island Red males in both pure-line and crossbreds. White Leghorn X Rhode Island Red crossbred progeny had the highest mortality rate. In a second phase of the study, a comparison was made between mortality rates of male and female progeny of White Leghorn-Rhode Island Red reciprocal crosses. Rate of loss was significantly lower in males than in females but did not differ between crosses. These results support a conclusion that sex linkage is a major factor in differential mortality rates between progeny of White Longhorn-heavy breed reciprocal crosses.