cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Protection against acute amphetamine-induced behavior by microinjection of a group II metabotropic glutamate receptor agonist into the dorsal striatum of rats

Abstract Group II metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) are distributed both pre- and postsynaptically in the striatum. By bilaterally administering a subgroup-selective agonist or antagonist into the dorsal striatum of chronically cannulated rats, this study examined the role of striatal group II mGluRs in the regulation of basal and dopamine-stimulated motor behavior. Intrastriatal injection of a group II agonist, (2S,2′R,3′R)-2-(2′,3′-dicarboxycyclopropyl)glycine (DCG-IV, 0.01, 0.1 and 1 nmol), dose-dependently reduced basal levels of motor activity. Pretreatment of rats with intrastriatal DCG-IV at a higher dose (1 nmol), but not a lower dose (0.01 nmol), produced complete or partial blockade of hyperlocomotion induced by acute injection of amphetamine (2.5 mg/kg, i.p.) or apomorphine (1 mg/kg, s.c.), respectively. Blockade of group II mGluRs by intrastriatal injection of a group II antagonist, (RS)-α-methylserine-O-phosphate monophenyl ester (10 nmol), was found to: (i) induce a moderate locomotion by itself; (ii) augment amphetamine-stimulated behaviors and (iii) attenuate DCG-IV-induced reduction of basal and amphetamine-stimulated motor activity. These data demonstrate that the group II mGluRs in the striatum play a significant role in the inhibitory modulation of tonic and phasic motor activity, which is most likely processed through both pre- and postsynaptic mechanisms.
EFFECT OF NEAR‐ULTRAVIOLET IRRADIATION ON PLANARIA*

— Near-UV radiation in the UV-B range prevented regeneration of segments of the turbellarian worm, Planaria. and reduced survival of intact animals as a direct function of the fluence supplied. Survival was photoperiod dependent suggesting dark-repair capacity. Near-UV radiation induced melanogenesis
Challenges in Assessing the Process–Outcome Link in Practice

The expanded use of clinical process-of-care measures to assess the quality of health care in the context of public reporting and pay-for-performance applications has led to a desire to demonstrate the value of such efforts in terms of improved patient outcomes. The inability to observe associations between improved delivery of clinical processes and improved clinical outcomes in practice has raised concerns about the value of holding providers accountable for delivery of clinical processes of care. Analyses that attempt to investigate this relationship are fraught with many challenges, including selection of an appropriate outcome, the proximity of the outcome to the receipt of the clinical process, limited power to detect an effect, small expected effect sizes in practice, potential bias due to unmeasured confounding factors, and difficulties due to changes in measure specification over time. To avoid potentially misleading conclusions about an observed or lack of observed association between a clinical process of care and an outcome in the context of observational studies, individuals conducting and interpreting such studies should carefully consider, evaluate, and acknowledge these types of challenges.
A history and a survey of lattice path enumeration

Abstract In celebration of the Sixth International Conference on Lattice Path Counting and Applications, it is befitting to review the history of lattice path enumeration and to survey how the topic has progressed thus far. We start the history with early games of chance specifically the ruin problem which later appears as the ballot problem. We discuss Andre's Reflection Principle and its misnomer, its relation with the method of images and possible origins from physics and Brownian motion, and the earliest evidence of lattice path techniques and solutions. In the survey, we give representative articles on lattice path enumeration found in the literature in the last 35 years by the lattice, step set, boundary, characteristics counted, and solution method. Some of this work appears in the author's 2005 dissertation.
The effect of blood pressure on hematoma and perihematomal area in acute intracerebral hemorrhage

Elevated blood pressure (BP) is exceedingly common in patients who present with an acute spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Many pharmacologic agents are available to rapidly decrease elevated BP in these patients, but m the absence of evidence-based guidelines, controversy remains on the optimal BP target [1 ]. In a recent worldwide survey among 117 stroke experts caring for patients with acute ICH, 56% of physicians reported using a uniform BP goal within the first 24 hours [21. Of these, the majority (n = 50) preferred a systolic blood pressure (SBP) goal rather than a mean arterial pressure (MAP) goal. ~II~e SBP target, however, diflered substantially among physicians (Fig. 1). On one hand, elevated BP may contribute to hematoma expansion and edema formation in the hours to days after symptom onset. Conversely, aggressive BP lowering might impair regional cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cause ischemia and secondary tissue injury in the brain region surrounding the hematoma. In this article, we review the current available literature addressing each side of the argmnent.
A fast convergence clustering algorithm merging MCMC and EM methods

Clustering is a fundamental problem in statistics and machine learning, whose solution is commonly computed by the Expectation-Maximization (EM) method, which finds a locally optimal solution for an objective function called log-likelihood. Since the surface of the log-likelihood function is non convex, a stochastic search with Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods can help escaping locally optimal solutions. In this article, we tackle two fundamental conflicting goals: Finding higher quality solutions and achieving faster convergence. With that motivation in mind, we introduce an efficient algorithm that combines elements of the EM and MCMC methods to find clustering solutions that are qualitatively better than those found by the standard EM method. Moreover, our hybrid algorithm allows tuning model parameters and understanding the uncertainty in their estimation. The main issue with MCMC methods is that they generally require a very large number of iterations to explore the posterior of each model parameter. Convergence is accelerated by several algorithmic improvements which include sufficient statistics, simplified model parameter priors, fixing covariance matrices and iterative sampling from small blocks of the data set. A brief experimental evaluation shows promising results.
The Effects of Closer Monitoring on Driver Compliance with Interlock Restrictions

This randomized controlled trial of 2168 DWI multiple offenders assigned to a state-wide ignition interlock program in Maryland compared non-compliance with interlock requirements among drivers who were closely monitored (by Westat staff) and drivers who received standard monitoring (by the Motor Vehicle Administration). Compliance comparisons relied on datalogger data from MVA's interlock providers plus driver records that contained demographic information, prior alcohol-related traffic violations, their dispositions, and interlock duration. Measures for quantifying non-compliance included rates per 1000 engine starts for initial breath test failures at varying BAC levels and time periods, retest failures, retest refusals, interlock disconnects, startup violations, and summation measures. Regression analysis estimated the effects of closer monitoring on non-compliance, using linear mixed models that included random driver effects and fixed effects for study-group assignment, prior alcohol-related traffic violations, and months of continuous datalogger data with a quadratic function that assessed changes and rates of change in interlock non-compliance over time. All the separate non-compliance rates and summary measures derived from them were lower for closer monitored than control drivers for continuous data series of at least 6, 12, or 24 months. The differences for initial test failures and the two summary measures were statistically significant. Most measures of non-compliance decreased significantly as continuous time on the interlock increased. Parallel trends in each study group indicated that drivers learned to improve their compliance over time. Thus, this study convincingly demonstrates that closer monitoring substantially enhanced compliance with requirements of the ignition interlock and that regardless of group assignment, compliance increased over time. Language: en
SOME RECENT DEVELOPMENTS IN ION-EXCHANGE RESINS

change have been published in recent years. Beauvais and Alexandratos gave an overview of polymer-supported reagents for the selective complexation of metal ions.3 Abrams and Millar published a history of the origin and development of macroporous ion-exchange resins.4 The literature indicates an increasing interest in the use of ion-exchange processes for applications in the environmental fields. The recently published Environmental Ion Exchange: Principles and Design gives a comprehensive overview of ion exchange’s application to treating water/wastewater.5 Also, a number of recent U.S. patents involve ion-exchange resins in the areas of waste treatment and minimization. Two patents were issued for the removal of heavy metal cations from organic solutions, while another was issued for the removal of anions from organic solutions.6 One utilizes a chelating resin for removal,7 while the other uses a mixture of a chelating resin and an anion-exchange resin.8 Two
Surgical models of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery and sleeve gastrectomy in rats and mice

Bariatric surgery is the only definitive solution currently available for the present obesity pandemic. These operations typically involve reconfiguration of gastrointestinal tract anatomy and impose profound metabolic and physiological benefits, such as substantially reducing body weight and ameliorating type II diabetes. Therefore, animal models of these surgeries offer unique and exciting opportunities to delineate the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the resolution of obesity and diabetes. Here we describe a standardized procedure for mouse and rat models of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (80-90 min operative time) and sleeve gastrectomy (30-45 min operative time), which, to a high degree, resembles operations in humans. We also provide detailed protocols for both pre- and postoperative techniques that ensure a high success rate in the operations. These protocols provide the opportunity to mechanistically investigate the systemic effects of the surgical interventions, such as regulation of body weight, glucose homeostasis and gut microbiome.
Water-Mass and Transport Variability at 110°W in the Equatorial Pacific

Abstract An analysis of nine hydrographic sections collected in 1979–81 along 110°W in the equatorial Pacific Ocean is presented. Sections typically sampled the upper 500 m of the water column from 10°N to 3°S. Analysis concentrated on the repeated sections north of the equator. Examination of the variability of eastward transport indicates that the North Equatorial Countercurrent (NECC) and the Northern Subsurface Countercurrent (NSCC) cannot be distinguished solely on the basis of water-mass structure. However, using a potential density surface (σθ = 25.0) as a current boundary we find that on average the NSCC transports 13.7 × 106 m3 s−1 compared to only 8.3 × 106 m3 s−1 for the NECC. The NSCC flow is sufficiently stable so that meridional surface dynamic-height gradient remains a good index of zonal transport fluctuations. Variations in surface dynamic height observed in our data and in the EASTROPAC data indicate a seasonal cycle to the surface topography with large values for the equatorial and coun...
Anion Effects in the Extraction of Lanthanide 2-Thenoyltrifluoroacetone Complexes into an Ionic Liquid

The extraction of trivalent lanthanides from an aqueous phase containing 1 M NaClO4 into the room temperature ionic liquid 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium nonafluoro-1-butanesulfonate by the β-diketone extractant 2-thenoyltrifluoroacetone (Htta) was studied. Radiotracer distribution, absorption spectroscopy, time-resolved laser-induced fluorescence spectroscopy, and X-ray absorption fine structure measurements point to the extraction of multiple lanthanide species. At low extractant concentrations, fully hydrated aqua cations of the lanthanides are present in the ionic liquid phase. As the extractant concentration is increased 1:2 and 1:3 lanthanide:tta species are observed. In contrast, 1:4 Ln:tta complexes were observed in the extraction of lanthanides by Htta into 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide.
Synthesis and characterization of lithium-doped tin dioxide nanocrystalline powders

Abstract In order to develop a better understanding of Li-doping in SnO 2 nanoparticles, a gel–sol method of synthesis is employed to systematically examine the influence of reaction and growth conditions such as pH, dopant concentration, and calcinations temperature. The extent of Li doping in nanoparticles is characterized using nuclear reaction analysis (NRA) and the nanostructure with high-resolution electron transmission microscopy (HR-TEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) techniques. The NRA reports that the lithium incorporation only takes place at alkaline pH (>8). The XRD and TEM results indicate that the crystallite size exhibits a maximum at a pH of 8 increasing (decreasing) with calcinations temperature (dopant concentration), while preserving the casserite crystal structure (tetragonal rutile) under these reaction conditions. A preliminary analysis suggests a nanoscopic phase separation of lithium poor crystalline core and lithium rich amorphous shell may occur with increased dopant concentration.
Performance on the dimensional change card sort and backward digit span by young children with autism without intellectual disability

The early development of executive function (EF) and its relation to autism symptom expression is of considerable theoretical interest, particularly in children without general cognitive delay. Executive function was tested in 23 children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) without intellectual disability and 20 age- and IQ-matched typically developing children. Even though performance was equivalent between the two groups on tests of general intelligence, flexibility in card sorting was lower for children with ASD. Verbal working memory during the backward digit span did not differ between groups. Among children with ASD, poorer performance on card sorting distinguished a subgroup with worse social-communication functioning above and beyond IQ. Controlling for IQ social and repetitive symptoms of ASD did not differ based on card sorting ability.
Bone Marrow Leptin Signaling Mediates Obesity-Associated Adipose Tissue Inflammation in Male Mice

Obesity is characterized by an increased recruitment of proinflammatory macrophages to the adipose tissue (AT), leading to systemic inflammation and metabolic disease. The pathogenesis of this AT inflammation, however, remains to be elucidated. The circulating adipokine leptin is increased in obesity and is involved in immune cell function and activation. In the present study, we investigated the role of leptin in the induction of obesity-associated inflammation. We generated radiation chimeric C57BL/6J mice reconstituted with either leptin receptor-deficient (db/db) or wild-type (WT) bone marrow and challenged them with a high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks. Mice reconstituted with db/db bone marrow (WT/db), had significantly lower body weight and adiposity compared with mice with WT bone marrow (WT/WT). Gonadal AT in WT/db mice displayed a 2-fold lower expression of the inflammatory genes Tnfa, Il6, and Ccl2. In addition, gonadal fat of WT/db mice contained significantly fewer crown-like structures compared with WT/WT mice, and most of their AT macrophages expressed macrophage galactose-type C type lectin 1 (MGL1) and were C-C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2)-negative, indicative of an anti-inflammatory phenotype. Moreover, WT/db mice exhibited greater insulin sensitivity compared with WT/WT mice. These data show that disrupted leptin signaling in bone marrow-derived cells attenuates the proinflammatory conditions that mediate many of the metabolic complications that characterize obesity. Our findings establish a novel mechanism involved in the regulation of obesity-associated systemic inflammation and support the hypothesis that leptin is a proinflammatory cytokine.
Organizing and Making Sense of the Literature: Arthur M. Cohen as Director of the ERIC Clearinghouse for Community Colleges, 1966-2003.

A major part of Arthur M. Cohen’s scholarly legacy is the archive of documents and journal articles catalogued by the ERIC Clearinghouse for Community Colleges, which he led throughout its entire 37-year history (1966-2003). As Clearinghouse director, Cohen oversaw its document acquisition and cataloguing operations, as well as its extensive publication program. Emphasizing a reciprocal relationship between the Clearinghouse and community colleges, he enhanced the availability of information on community colleges and added thousands of items to the ERIC database, items that constitute an important part of the community college’s public record over a nearly 40-year period.
Construction and BamHI analysis of chimeric plasmids containing EcoRI DNA fragments of the F sex factor

Abstract The construction of seven chimeric plasmids (pRS series) carrying Eco RI endonuclease-generated segments of the F sex factor cloned onto the vector pSC101 is described. Bam HI endonuclease analysis of these seven plasmids, the six previously described pRS plasmids (Skurray, R. A., Nagaishi, H., and Clark, A. J. (1976) Proc. Nat. Acad. Sci. USA 73 , 64–68) and F plasmid DNA has enabled a partial Bam HI map of F to be constructed; the orientation of insertion of F DNA segments into the pSC101 vector was also established for nine of the pRS plasmids. Results indicate that in the absence of their normal promoter, F cistrons cloned into the Eco RI site of pSC101 are expressed regardless of orientation of insertion although there is a preferred orientation for high levels of expression.
Modeling and solving a large-scale generation expansion planning problem under uncertainty

We formulate a generation expansion planning problem to determine the type and quantity of power plants to be constructed over each year of an extended planning horizon, considering uncertainty regarding future demand and fuel prices. Our model is expressed as a two-stage stochastic mixed-integer program, which we use to compute solutions independently minimizing the expected cost and the Conditional Value-at-Risk; i.e., the risk of significantly larger-than-expected operational costs. We introduce stochastic process models to capture demand and fuel price uncertainty, which are in turn used to generate trees that accurately represent the uncertainty space. Using a realistic problem instance based on the Midwest US, we explore two fundamental, unexplored issues that arise when solving any stochastic generation expansion model. First, we introduce and discuss the use of an algorithm for computing confidence intervals on obtained solution costs, to account for the fact that a finite sample of scenarios was used to obtain a particular solution. Second, we analyze the nature of solutions obtained under different parameterizations of this method, to assess whether the recommended solutions themselves are invariant to changes in costs. The issues are critical for decision makers who seek truly robust recommendations for generation expansion planning.
Help! to the rescue in Rio Rancho

This paper analyzes the problem of locating the optimal positions of two emergency facilities in the hypothetical township of Rio Rancho based on the given data of emergency distributions in the township for 1985. To solve this problem, we designed two models to estimate the expected response time for a given pair of facility locations. One model assumed that the emergencies occured in the center of the blocks, while the other supposed a uniform distribution of emergencies along the streets bordering the blocks. Both models considered only corners as possible locations for the emergency facilities, and neither considered obstacles. However, not accounting for the obstacles did not affect the final solutions because the routes from the points chosen as the optimal locations would not be lengthened by a consideration of these barriers. In the discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of the models, it appears that the only serious weakness of the two models is the data upon which both are based. (The data may be incomplete since they cover only the year 1985). Finally, although we believe that Model II is the stronger of the two models, we feel that since both give the same results, our recommendations for the locations were truly the optimal positions for the facilities.
Magnetic transitions in a molecular metal with embedded local moments: Cu(pc)I

Abstract We discuss the low temperature magnetic properties of (phthalocyaninato)-copper(II) iodide (Cu(pc)I). This molecular metal contains conductive stacks that incorporate a one-dimensional array of local Cu +2 moments strongly coupled to conduction electrons. Below 20K, the EPR g-value of the coupled spin system increases anomalously and at 8K the EPR signal broadens abruptly and becomes unobservable. Anomalies in the proton NMR spin-lattice relaxation times are observed at the transition temperature. Preliminary EPR experiments conducted on a newly synthesized series of materials, Cu x Ni 1−x (pc)I, indicate the existence of a similar low temperature transition in the presence of various concentrations of loca moments.
Plasma levels of lidocaine after intramuscular administration.

Abstract Lidocaine has proved to be an effective ventricular antiarrhythmic agent at plasma levels of 1 to 1.5 μg/ml. Since serious ventricular arrhythmias are most likely to occur within the first hour after myocardial infarction, lidocaine administered before the patient reaches the hospital may be of prophylactic value. Plasma levels of lidocaine were determined in 69 patients with proved or suspected myocardial infarction after the administration of 200 mg of lidocaine intramuscularly as either a 6 percent (3.3 ml), 8 percent (2.5 ml), 9 percent (2.2 ml) or 10 percent (2 ml) solution. Injection sites were deltoid, lateral thigh or buttocks. Slightly higher plasma levels were achieved after 6 percent injection than with more concentrated solutions. Deltoid injection led to higher levels than lateral thigh injection which in turn led to higher levels than buttocks injection. Deltoid injection of 6, 8 or 9 percent solution gave levels above 2 μg/ml at 10 minutes. Therapeutic levels persisted for 1 hour or more. The hypertonicity of more concentrated solutions and the affinity of fatty tissue for lidocaine may explain differences in plasma levels after intramuscular injection.
Increasing Dietary Selenium Elevates Reducing Capacity and ERK Activation Associated with Accelerated Progression of Select Mesothelioma Tumors

To study the effect of the micronutrient selenium on malignant mesothelioma (MM) progression, we cultured four different MM cell lines in media containing increasing amounts of sodium selenite (30, 50, and 80 nmol/L). Increasing selenium levels increased density-dependent proliferation and mobility for CRH5 and EKKH5 but not AB12 and AK7. Comparing these cell lines revealed that extracellular regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation was sensitive to a selenium increase in CRH5 and EKKH5 but not AB12 and AK7 cells. Stable expression of a dominant-negative mutant ERK eliminated the effects of increasing selenium. Because ERK is redox sensitive, we compared the MM cell lines in terms of glutathione levels and the capacity to reduce exogenous hydrogen peroxide. Increasing selenium levels led to higher glutathione and reducing capacity in CRH5 and EKKH5 but not AB12 and AK7. The reducing agent N -acetylcysteine eliminated the effects of selenium on ERK activation, proliferation, and mobility. Mice fed diets containing increasing levels of selenium (0.08, 0.25, and 1.0 ppm) showed increased tumor progression for CRH5 but not AB12, MM cells, and in vivo N -acetylcysteine treatment eliminated these effects. These data suggest that the effects of dietary selenium on MM tumor progression depend on the arising cancer cells' redox metabolism, and the tumors able to convert increased selenium into a stronger reducing capacity actually benefit from increased selenium intake.
Quantification of Diaminomaleonitrile Using High Performance Liquid Chromatography with UV and Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometric Detection

Abstract A method was developed to quantify diaminomaleonitrile (DAMN) in complex aqueous matrices using high performance liquid chromatography with UV and electrospray ionization mass spectrometric (ESI-MS) detection. The method is rapid (analytical times <10 min), able to quantify DAMN against complex backgrounds, and achieved with part per billion detection limits. Given the central role of DAMN in generating heterocycles of known biological significance, this study provides a rapid and sensitive method for quantifying DAMN in complex solutions.
Offering Rates on Fixed‐ and Adjustable‐Rate Mortgage Loans

This paper analyzes the macroeconomic determinants of the spread between simultaneous fixed- and adjustable-rate mortgage loan offering rates. Previously developed theoretical relationships are used to construct an econometric model that incorporates both general financial market and region-specific variables. Results indicate that changes in offering rate spreads are positively related to changes in the level and volatility of interest rates and negatively related to changes in variables that proxy for potential default risk.
Antinuclear antibodies: diagnostic markers and clues to the basis of systemic autoimmunity.

Systemic autoimmune diseases include systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), scleroderma, Sjogren's syndrome and dermato-polymyositis among others. These diseases are characterized by the occurrence of autoantibodies directed against nuclear antigens. Each disease is associated with a distinctive group of autoantibodies which can be used as diagnostic markers or reagents to separate one disease from another. Examples include antibodies to native DNA and to Sm antigen which are distinctive for SLE, antibodies to DNA topoisomerase I, centromere antigens and RNA polymerase I which are distinctive for scleroderma and antibodies to transfer RNA synthetases which are distinctive for dermato-polymyositis. In a sense these can be regarded as immune fingerprints which are characteristic of these disease entities and they have therefore been useful to the clinician as aids to differential diagnosis. Some insight into the nature of systemic autoimmunity has come from studies defining the molecular biology of antigens in SLE and scleroderma. In SLE some of the antigens such as Sm and U1-ribonucleoprotein are assembled as small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles which are involved in splicing of precursor messenger RNA, thus being involved in an important and essential cellular function. In scleroderma it has been shown that antigens such as DNA topo I, centromere and RNA pol I can also be demonstrated to be co-localized in close proximity at a certain point in cell division. These observations are very compelling for the hypothesis that the immunogen(s) in systemic autoimmunity might be intracellular particles composed of assemblies of protein and nucleic acids of various kinds.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
The action of epichlorohydrin in the presence of alkalies and various salts on the crease recovery of cotton

As a phase of an investigation of the cellulose–epoxide reactions, experiments have been performed in which epichlorohydrin reacted with cotton cellulose in the presence of sodium hydroxide and various salts. Acidic and basic salts, as well as those which are relatively neutral in aqueous solutions, were used in pretreatments for the cellulose–epichlorohydrin reaction. No reaction with cellulose occurred in the presence of acid salts and only very slow addition of epichlorohydrin to cellulose in the presence of neutral salts; the greatest reaction was produced with basic salts. Particular emphasis was given to use of certain salts known to cause epichlorohydrin to undergo a type of cyclization reaction. Previously published methods, used for imparting both wet and dry crease resistance to cotton fabrics by means of diepoxides in the presence of NaOH, have resulted in wet crease resistance only when applied to the application of epichlorohydrin. Among the basic salts investigated, 20% solutions of sodium azide used in pretreatments were found to produce low weight gains of epichlorohydrin and a fair degree of dry and wet crease resistance in cotton after a slow reaction at 25°C. or a faster reaction at 80°C. The greatest improvement in dry crease resistance with epichlorohydrin was obtained by pretreatments with concentrated solutions of sodium orthosilicate, sodium metasilicate, or trisodium phosphate at 80°C. The effects of amount of water at time of reaction as well as speeds of reaction with the various pretreatments have been considered. Optical and electron microscopical examinations of fibers and ultrathin cross sections of fibers, respectively, after immersion in cupriethylene diamine (cuene) have indicated that the cellulose–epichlorohydrin reaction at 80°C. after pretreatment with concentrated solutions of silicates or phosphates differed from that after pretreatment with sodium hydroxide at all concentrations. Even when the pretreatments were with dilute sodium hydroxide, the epichlorohydrin-reacted fibers were more swollen in cuene than were those treated fibers which had been pretreated with the concentrated silicates or trisodium phosphate solutions. Decrease in amount of swelling and dissolution in cuene was found to correlate with increase in dry crease resistance of the fabrics. While all these treated fabrics possessed high wet crease resistance, only those pretreated with the aforementioned concentrated salt solutions possessed good dry crease resistance. Effects of base-catalyzed addition of certain monoepoxides to cotton on the resultant crease resistance properties of the fabrics have been reported and compared with properties imparted by epichlorohydrin. Attempts have been made to explain why the number of cellulose crosslinks formed per unit of time by epichlorohydrin is greater, when silicates or phosphates at high concentrations are present with hydroxyl ions, than when hydroxyl ions only are present.
Numerical simulation of the transport processes in a heat treatment furnace

The numerical simulation of the heat transfer and fluid processes in a furnace is carried out using finite difference techniques. A heat treatment furnace for the annealing of steel is considered as an example and a mathematical model of the system is obtained by simplifying the equations that govern the transport in the various components that constitute the system. The resulting set of coupled equations then governs the time-dependent temperature distribution in the furnace. Because of the complexity of the full problem, the transport processes undergone by individual components of the furnace are simulated first, using appropriate boundary conditions that decouple them from the other components. These individual simulations are considered in terms of the underlying physical mechanisms for validation. Finally, these are combined to obtain the simulation of the full, coupled problem. The temperature cycle undergone by the material is computed, along with the time-dependent temperature distributions in other components. A comparison with experimental data indicates close agreement, lending strong support to the numerical model. The relevance of these results to the design of the overall thermal system is also outlined.
A Reexamination of the Relationship between Electrofishing Catch Rate and Age-0 Walleye Density in Northern Wisconsin Lakes

Abstract We quantified the relationship between the population density (number/acre) of age-0 walleyes Sander vitreus (formerly Stizostedion vitreum) and electrofishing catch per effort (CPE; number/mi) in 19 Wisconsin lakes to update a 1982 analysis by Serns, who used linear regression through the origin to develop a model from a small data set that has been widely used to estimate age-0 walleye density from electrofishing CPE. We added new data, explicitly tested for the linearity of the relationship, and accounted for the effect of measurement errors. We found that electrofishing CPE was nonlinearly related to the population density of age-0 walleyes, which indicated that the catchability of age-0 walleyes to electrofishing declined with population density. The measurement errors in electrofishing CPE were more than nine times as great as those in age-0 walleye population density, so that the parameters of the relationship between electrofishing CPE and age-0 walleye density were accurately estimated b...
An application of homotopy to solving linear programs

Consider a linear program inm inequality constraints andn nonnegative variables. An application of homotopy to the problem gives an algorithm similar to Dantzig's self-dual method. Howeve, the homotopy approach allows one to recognize several previously undescribed and potentially interesting properties. For example, the algorithm can be initiated in such a way as to produce a path which is primal-dual feasible. Moreover, one can theoretically identify an orthant with the property that if one initiates the algorithm at any point in that orthant then, after a `phase I' requiring at most min{m, n} pivots, convergence is obtained in one step.
Value of Autonomic Testing in Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy

Objective To attempt to characterize reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD) and to determine factors that would predict a response to sympathetic block. Design We undertook a retrospective analysis on 396 patients with chronic limb pain referred for autonomic testing during a 5-year period. Material and Methods Clinical endpoints were relief of pain after sympathetic block and a composite RSD diagnostic probability score, based on the clinical attributes of allodynia, protopathia, swelling, and vasomotor alterations. We compared the results of three autonomic tests—resting sweat output (RSO), resting skin temperature (RST), and quantitative sudomotor axon reflex test (QSART). Results Increased RSO predicted the diagnosis of RSD with 94% specificity, and the specificity was 98% when RSO was considered in conjunction with an abnormal QSART result, the best laboratory correlate (P = 0.003) of the clinical diagnosis. Shorter duration of pain correlated with a warmer limb (P Conclusion Sweating abnormalities correlate strongly with the clinical syndrome of RSD, and alterations in RST may be superior to clinical findings in predicting the response to sympathetic block. The findings provide physiologic support for the unproven view of a natural disease progression ("stages"), with better treatment response and a warmer extremity initially. Because certain physiologic trends occur in all patients, general alterations of autonomic function with pain are suggested.
Safety of radiofrequency treatment over human skin previously injected with medium-term injectable soft-tissue augmentation materials: a controlled pilot trial.

Background and Objectives Several soft-tissue augmentation materials are now available for reduction of nasolabial fold creases and perioral rhytides. Nasolabial folds and perioral rhytides can also be improved by skin tightening delivered by non-ablative radiofrequency (RF) treatment. The purpose of this study was to assess the safety of RF treatment over skin areas recently injected with medium-term injectable soft-tissue augmentation materials. Study Design/Materials and Methods Five subjects were assigned to the experimental arm (augmentation materials plus RF) and one to the control arm (augmentation materials alone). Each subject received injections of 0.3 mL of hyaluronic acid derivative (Restylane) and calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) 3 cm apart on the upper inner arm. Two weeks later, two non-overlapping passes of RF (Thermage ThermaCool TC) were delivered at 63.5 setting with medium-fast 1.5 cm2 tip over injected sites in all of the experimental subjects. Punch skin biopsies were obtained 3 days later from each of the two injection sites on each subject. Results Light microscopy and digital photomicrographs obtained at low, medium, and high power showed no difference between filler materials in experimental and control subjects. In both cases filler was evident at the deep dermal-subcutaneous junction. Nodule formation, foreign body extravasation, or hemorrhage/clot was not observed grossly or histologically. Subjects and physicians did not report any difference in signs and symptoms between the experimental and control arms. Slightly increased transitory pain was noted when RF was delivered over filler versus over normal skin. Conclusion Applying RF treatment over the same area 2 weeks after deep dermal injection with hyaluronic acid derivatives or calcium hydroxylapatite does not appear to cause gross morphological changes in the filler material or surrounding skin. Further studies with different parameters are necessary to confirm these findings. Lasers Surg. Med. 38:205–210, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
The theory of concentrated Langevin distributions

The density of the Langevin (or Fisher-Von Mises) distribution is proportional to exp κμ′x, where x and the modal vector μ are unit vectors in Rq. κ (≥0) is called the concentration parameter. The distribution of statistics for testing hypotheses about the modal vectors of m distributions simplify greatly as the concentration parameters tend to infinity. The non-null distributions are obtained for statistics appropriate when κ1,…,κm are known but tend to infinity, and are unknown but equal to κ which tends to infinity. The three null hypotheses are H01:μ = μ0(m=1), H02:μ1 = … =μm, H03:μi ϵ V, i=1,…,m In each case a sequence of alternatives is taken tending to the null hypothesis.
A model and an implementation of a logic programming environment

It has been claimed that logic programming offers outstanding possibilities for new concepts in programming environments. But with the exceptions of the pioneering work of Shapiro on algorithmic debugging, Pereira's rational debugging and early work on expert systems from Imperial College, there has been little progress reported in the field of logic programming environments. This summary describes our current work on a generic software engineering shell for logic programming. We use reflection and the amalgamation of meta-level language with the object level to express and support the incremental character of specifying/programming. An important facet of the shell is that we formalize some aspects of programming methodology and provide heuristics for avoiding errors. These heuristics formalize what experienced programmers may already know. The shell bears similarities to an expert system since it has explanation mechanisms and provides programming-knowledge acquisition. Currently, it supports single user Prolog programming and runs in C-Prolog. The shell is generic in that it provides support for activities ranging from artificial intelligence programming to formal specification development. This research has been supported in part by the IBM Young Faculty Development Award and in part by the NSF grant # MCS-84-05079.
Two-Axis MEMS scanner with transfer-printed high-reflectivity, broadband monolithic silicon photonic crystal mirrors

We present a two-axis electrostatic MEMS scanner with high-reflectivity monolithic single-crystal-silicon photonic crystal (PC) mirrors suitable for applications in harsh environments. The reflective surfaces of the MEMS scanner are transfer-printed PC mirrors with low polarization dependence, low angular dependence, and reflectivity over 85% in the wavelength range of 1490nm~1505nm and above 90% over the wavelength band of 1550~1570nm. In static mode, the scanner has total scan range of 10.2° on one rotation axis and 7.8° on the other. Dynamic operation on resonance increase the scan range to 21° at 608Hz around the outer rotation axis and 9.5° at 1.73kHz about the inner rotation axis.
The association endorsement and consumers’ intention to purchase

Many studies have investigated the impact of celebrity endorsers on consumers’ purchase intention. None, however, has studied the effects of an association endorsement. This research examined the effect of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association’s (PRCA) endorsement of products on consumers’ purchase intentions. Survey data were collected from 1,456 respondents attending six rodeos across the USA. Binary logit regression revealed that individuals who attended rodeo frequently and those with less than a college degree were the most likely to accept the association endorsement. The findings are explained within the social influence framework.
Phase Behavior and Rheology of SWNTs in Superacids

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) can be dispersed at high concentration in superacids; the protonation of SWNTs sidewalls eliminates wall-wall van der Waals interactions and promotes the dispersion process. At very low concentration, SWNTs in superacids dissolve as individual tubes which behave as Brownian rods. At higher concentration, SWNTs form a highly unusual nematic phase consisting of spaghetti-like self-assembled supermolecular strands of mobile, solvated tubes in equilibrium with a dilute isotropic phase. At even higher concentration, the spaghetti strands self-assemble into a polydomain nematic liquid crystal. Upon the introduction of small amounts of water, the liquid crystal phase separates into needle-shaped strands (20 Im long) of highly aligned SWNTs, termed alewives. Under anhydrous condition, the liquid crystalline phase can be processed into highly aligned fibers of pure SWNT without the aid of any surfactants or polymers.
Displacement history of oceanic fracture zones

Oceanic crust on opposite sides of a fracture zone is generally of different ages ( t ) and is therefore at different depths dependent on √t. Subsidence rates are proportional to 1/√t, so that the younger, higher side of a fracture zone is subsiding faster than the older, lower side. Thus, over all of its length, including the aseismic extensions, a fracture zone has a small component of dip-slip motion. Calculated dip-slip rates vary from 2 mm/yr in the vicinity of a spreading ridge with an axial valley to 10−3 mm/yr at a distance from the ridge where the younger side of the fracture zone is 50 m.y. old. A similar qualitative argument suggests that strike-slip motion may also occur because of differential thermal contraction of oceanic crust parallel with the fracture zone. Cumulative effects of this very slow dip-slip and strike-slip motion could contribute to (1) off-ridge seismicity, (2) a recognizable pattern of scarp height versus age that could be useful in identifying ambiguous ocean-floor features as fossil fracture zones, (3) distinctive fabrics on the younger side of the aseismic portions of fracture zones, which have never passed through the transform domain, and (4) development of complex stratigraphic and structural relationships within fracture-zone troughs.
Hygroscopic Growth and Deposition of Inhaled Secondary Cigarette Smoke in Human Nasal Pathways

To ascertain the threat to human health posed by the inhalation of the particulate phase for secondary cigarette smoke (SCS), it is necessary to determine the doses delivered to airway cells. The risk assessment of SCS particles is complicated by their hygroscopic properties. Inhaled particles that are hygroscopic may absorb the water vapor that is present in a warm, humid environment such as that found in the human respiratory system. As a direct result, the physicochemical characteristics of a particle such as size, shape, density, and composition may experience signie cant changes. Herein, the effects of hygroscopicity and deposition of SCS particles are examined in the nasopharyngeal region of the respiratory tract through which particles travel before entering the lung. To accomplish this goal, a computer model is dee ned to describe the anatomical features of the airways within the human head and throat. Then the effects of water vapor uptake and deposition on inhaled particle size distributions are formulated. The results of the simulations indicate that hygroscopicity is a critical factor affecting the dynamics of inhaled SCS.
A boolean satisfiability-based incremental rerouting approach with application to FPGAs

Incremental redesign is an increasingly essential step in any complex design. Late changes or corrections in functional specifications (so-called "engineering change orders" or ECOs) force us to search for a minimal perturbation that achieves the desired repair. In reconfigurable design scenarios, these incremental repairs may be in response to physical faults: the goal is to "design around" the fault. For FPGAs, incremental rerouting is an essential component of this repair problem. We have developed a new incremental rerouting algorithm for FPGAs using techniques from Boolean Satisfiability (SAT). In this application, these techniques have the twin virtues that they (1) represent all possible routing (and rerouting) constraints simultaneously and exactly, and (2) search for rerouting solutions by perturbing all nets concurrently. Preliminary results are promising. For several FPGA benchmarks, we were able to reroute fault reconfigurations that perturb up to 5.74% of all nets for a small number of fault sets (one to four faults) with only 1.55 track overhead per channel on average, with CPU time 0.76 to 4.91 seconds/fault.
Nagmia rodmani n. sp., Nagmia cisloi n. sp., and Probolitrema richiardii (López, 1888) (Gorgoderidae: Anaporrhutinae) from Elasmobranchs in the Gulf of California, Mexico

Abstract The generic diagnosis of Nagmia Nagaty, 1930, is emended to include species having some vitelline follicles extending into the extracecal space. Two new species belonging in the genus are described from the Gulf of California: Nagmia rodmani n. sp. from the body cavity of the giant electric ray, Narcine entemedor Jordan and Starks, 1895, and Nagmia cisloi n. sp. from the body cavity of the smoothtail mobula, Mobula thurstoni (Lloyd, 1908). Both species are distinguished from each other and the 13 other known congeners by the number of testicular follicles, ratio of widths of oral sucker to ventral sucker, and position of the vitelline follicles relative to the ceca. Nagmia rodmani is distinct based on the combined features: 12–17 follicles per testis, sucker width ratio of 1:1.7–2.0, vitelline follicles extending into the extracecal space, and the excretory vesicle being I-shaped and lacking perpendicular lateral branches along the main stem. Nagmia cisloi is distinct based on the combined featur...