cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Thermal Buckling Analysis of Rectangular Panels Subjected to Humped Temperature Profile Heating

This research investigates thermal buckling characteristics of rectangular panels subjected to different types of humped temperature profile heating. Minimum potential energy and finite-element methods are used to calculate the panel buckling temperatures. The two methods give fairly close thermal buckling solutions. 'Buckling temperature magnification factor of the first kind, eta' is established for the fixed panel edges to scale up the buckling solution of uniform temperature loading case to give the buckling solution of the humped temperature profile loading cases. Also, 'buckling temperature magnification factor of the second kind, xi' is established for the free panel edges to scale up the buckling solution of humped temperature profile loading cases with unheated boundary heat sinks to give the buckling solutions when the boundary heat sinks are heated up.
High temperature studies of perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) film (for HV capacitors)

Teflon perfluoroalkoxy (PFA) film was characterized electrically to explore the possibility of its use for high-temperature high-voltage capacitors for space applications. The properties measured at temperatures up to 250 degrees C included the AC breakdown voltage and the dielectric constant and dissipation factor at frequencies up to 100 kHz. To understand the breakdown mechanism taking place at these higher temperatures, the prebreakdown conduction currents were also monitored. The results show a drastic reduction in the dielectric strength, as well as an increase in dissipation factor and conduction current with increasing temperature. The results are explained in light of the breakdown models available. >
Place learning in humans: The role of distance and direction information

Although the process of establishing a memory of a location is necessary for navigation, relatively little is known about the information that humans use when forming place memories. We examined the relative importance of distance and angular information about landmarks in place learning. Participants repeatedly learned a target location in relation to three distinct landmarks in an immersive computer-generated (virtual) environment. Later, during testing, they attempted to return to that location. The configurations of landmarks used during testing were altered from those participants learned in order to separate the effects of metric distance information and information about inter-landmark angles. In general, participants showed greater reliance on distance information than angular information. This reliance was affected by nonmetric relationships present during learning, as well as by the degree to which the learned environment contained right or straight angles.
A digitally programmable delay chip with picosecond resolution

A digitally programmable delay chip fabricated on MOSAIC III, an advanced bipolar process, is described. The CML/ECL-based design comprises a digitally programmable delay chain and an analog vernier adjustment to achieve high-resolution capability. The architecture and fabrication process are described. Results from a test vehicle have demonstrated an average coarse step size of 110 ps and a fine tune resolution of 0.5 ps. A production version with improved linearity and reduced delay variation with temperature has been developed. >
Structure of a Marine Bacteriophage as Revealed by the Negative-Staining Technique

Valentine, Artrice F. (Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.), Peter K. Chen, Rita R. Colwell, and George B. Chapman. Structure of a marine bacteriophage as revealed by the negative-staining technique. J. Bacteriol. 91:819-822. 1966.-The morphology of a marine bacteriophage has been determined by negative-staining techniques and electron microscopy. The virus possesses a head, 600 A in diameter, and a tail which may be from 860 to 1,000 A in lenght. No tail sheath is seen. The appearance of the terminal tail structure is discussed.
Evidence for the episodic erosion of the Medusae Fossae Formation preserved within the youngest volcanic province on Mars

We use orbital SHAllow RADar (SHARAD) sounder data to three-dimensionally visualize the subsurface structure of Elysium Planitia, the youngest volcanic province on Mars. Our results reveal an emplacement history consisting of multiple groups of overlapping lava flow units, originating from different sources. The uniquely complex “radar stratigraphy” of Elysium Planitia, relative to other volcanic regions, requires a distinct mechanism to generate the numerous reflectors observed in SHARAD data. Sedimentary deposits interbedded with successive batches of lava flows could account for the elaborate pattern of reflectors. We infer that widespread, rapidly emplaced material sourced from the enigmatic Medusae Fossae Formation (MFF) creates these sedimentary layers. This implies that episodes of atmospheric activity, perhaps linked with the obliquity of Mars, periodically erode and redeposit material from the MFF across a large region.
Technique for chronic electrode or cannula implantation in decorticate animals.

Abstract A surgical technique is described which enables chronic recording of electrophysiological activity and chemical or electrical stimulation in the decorticated animal. This procedure circumvents the problems of inadequate electrode/cannula patency and of the short-term debilitating consequences of cortical ablation. These features make it possible to analyze the relationships between neuroelectrophysiology, behavior and the central mechanisms underlying the restitution of function following brain damage. The procedure appears to be suitable for a wide range of mature laboratory animals and offers several advantages over the few techniques currently available.
Mercury levels in water and sediment of Elephant Butte Reservoir, New Mexico

Mercury concentrations from less than 0.1 ppb to 17 ppb are common in surface waters. It is indicated that about 25 ppb represents the likely upper equilibrium limit of mercury in surface waters. The concentration of mercury in water is reduced in the presence of suspended particulate matter which will adsorb many ionic mercury species. This paper discusses whether or not mercury levels found in Elephant Butte Reservoir, New Mexico, represent natural levels compared to levels reported for other parts of the United States.
Crude oil in a shallow sand and gravel aquifer—II. Organic geochemistry

Abstract Crude oil spilled from a pipeline break in a remote area of north-central Minnesota has contaminated a shallow glacial outwash aquifer. Part of the oil was sprayed over a large area to the west of the pipeline and part of it accumulated in an oil body that floats at the water table to the east of the point of discharge. Total dissolved organic carbon (TDOC) concentrations in shallow groundwater collected in the oil spray area reach 16 mg/l. This is nearly an order of magnitude higher than the TDOC concentrations of native groundwater (∼2–3mg/l). The additional TDOC derives from the partial degradation of petroleum residues deposited at the land surface and transported to the aquifer by vertical recharge. In the vicinity of the oil body, TDOC concentrations in groundwater are 48 mg/l, 58% of the TDOC being composed of non-volatile organic C. The majority of the volatile DOC (63%) is a mixture of low-molecular-weight saturated, aromatic and alicyclic hydrocarbons derived from the oil. Downgradient from the oil body along the direction of groundwater flow, concentrations of all measured constituents of the TDOC pool decrease. Concentrations begin to decline most rapidly, however, in the zone where dissolved O2 concentrations begin to increase, ∼50m downgradient from the leading edge of the oil. Within the anoxic zone near the oil body, removal rates of isometric monoaromatic hydrocarbons vary widely. This indicates that the removal processes are mediated mainly by microbiological activity. Molecular and spectroscopic characterization of the TDOC and its spatial and temporal variation provide evidence of the importance of biogeochemical processes in attenuating petroleum contaminants in this perturbed subsurface environment.
One method to monitor the PPD function of Nikon scanners and some reticle surface particle detection machines

In the lithography process, if particles fall on the reticle, it will cause frame defocus, abnormal CD, bin fail ,and even low yield after exposure. This issue is more and more important in 90nm, 60nm, and 45nm processes.Nikon scanners have a pellicle particle detector (PPD) function that detects particles on the reticle surface before and after exposure. But how do you make sure the PPD function is working? And is the PPD sensitivity what you want? Until now, there has been no method to monitor this issue. Even Nikon and other mask shops could not provide a monitoring method.We offer an easy method that not only makes sure that the PPD function is working, but also monitors the sensitivity you want. The method is to make a monitor reticle by laying a hair on the reticle surface. If the position on the reticle with a hair triggers all alarms with C grade during PPD examination, we say this PPD function is ready because the width of the hair is about 75 um, and this is just the desired size.
Teachers as Role Models Teaching Character and Moral Virtues

(2008). Teachers as Role Models Teaching Character and Moral Virtues. Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance: Vol. 79, No. 2, pp. 45-50.
The effects of ovarian hormones on beta-adrenergic and muscarinic receptors in rat heart.

Abstract The in vitro and in vivo effects of estrogen and progesterone on muscarinic and β-adrenergic receptors of cardiac tissue were studied in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. The binding assay for muscarinic receptors was performed under a nonequilibrium condition; whereas the binding assay for β-adrenergic receptors, under an equilibrium condition. Estrogenic compounds and progesterone were found to have no effect on the binding of the radioligand, [ 3 H]-dihydroalprenolol, to β-adrenergic receptors in vitro . However, progestins but not estrogenic compounds inhibited the binding of the radioligand, [ 3 H]-quinuclidinyl benzilate, to muscarinic receptors in vitro , with progesterone as the most potent inhibitor (IC 50 = 37 μ M, apparent K i = 13 μ M). Progesterone was found to decrease the apparent affinity of muscarinic receptors for [ 3 H](-)QNB in vitro . Daily treatment of OVX rats with estradiol benzoate (4 μg) or progesterone (2.5 mg) for 4 days had no effect on the muscarinic or β-adrenergic receptors with respect to the binding affinity and receptor density. However, administrations of these hormones together for 4 days caused an increase in the receptor density of muscarinic receptors without a significant effect on their apparent binding affinity; also these hormones induced a decrease in the binding affinity and an increase in the receptor density of β-adrenergic receptors. The results of this study demonstrate that progestins are capable of interacting with the cardiac muscarinic receptors in vitro , and indicate that estrogen and progesterone have a synergistic effect to increase the receptor densities of muscarinic and β-adrenergic receptors as well as to cause a decrease in the binding affinity of β-adrenergic receptors in vivo .
Separation of neuropeptide Y diastereomers by high-performance liquid chromatography and capillary zone electrophoresis

Abstract Separation of analogues of neuropeptide Y (NPY) in which a single d -amino acid replaced the corresponding naturally occurring residue was performed by chromatographic techniques to ensure the quality of the synthetic peptides to be used for structural and biological studies. Of the 35 compounds, 28 were easily separated (α = 1.02–2.76) from native NPY by standard reversed-phase high-performance chromatography (RP-HPLC) methods using a Vydac C18 column and a gradient buffer system developed in our laboratory comprised of triethylammonium phosphate (TEAP) at pH 2.25 and acetonitrile at 40°C. The identical diastereomers could be separated on the same solid support and by using 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) as the mobile phase modifier, however separation factors were smaller and retention times were longer. Three of the remaining seven unresolved analogues were separated (α = 1.02–1.96) by changing the solid-phase support to Vydac diphenyl derivatized silica and a buffer system consisting of 0.1% TFA and acetonitrile. Of the four remaining unresolved analogues, only two could be separated by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) in 0.1 M sodium phosphate at pH 2.5, but all four were finally resolved by changing the electrophoretic buffer to 0.1 M TEAP buffer at pH 2.5. Migration times of the diastereomers differed by 0.2–2.0 min from that of the natural NPY. In addition to confirming the uniqueness of each isomer, this investigation demonstrated the expansive utility and high efficiency of the TEAP buffer system for both RP-HPLC and CZE as well as the difference in selectivity produced by the TEAP and TFA buffers in RP-HPLC. The conditions described here have broad applications for the analysis and preparative separation of synthetic and native peptides.
Systematic Identification of Typographical Errors in Library Catalogs

This article recounts the history of the creation of the database entitled Typographical Errors in Library Databases and describes the advances made in cooperative efforts to discover and fix typographical errors in bibliographic databases.
Rubber to rigid, clamped to undamped: toward composite materials with wide-range controllable stiffness and damping

Composite materials have increased the range of mechanical properties available to the design engineer compared with the range afforded by single component materials, leading to a revolution in capabilities. Nearly all commonly used engineering materials, including these composite materials, however, have a great limitation; that is, once their mechanical properties are set they cannot be changed. Imagine a material that could, under electric control, change from rubbery to rigid. Such composite "meta-materials" with stiffness and damping properties that can be electrically controlled over a wide range would find widespread application in areas such as morphing structures, tunable and conformable devices for human interaction, and greatly improved vibration control. Such a technology is a breakthrough capability because it fundamentally changes the paradigm of composite materials having a fixed set of mechanical properties. These electronically controllable composites may be the basis of discrete devices with tunable impedance. The composites can also be multifunctional materials: They can minimize size and mass by acting not only as a tunable impedance device, but also as a supporting structure or protective skin. Current approaches to controllable mechanical properties include composites with materials that have intrinsically variable properties such as shape memory alloys or polymers, or magnetorheological fluids, or composites that have active materials such as piezoelectrics, magnetostrictives, and newly emerging electroactive polymers. Each of these materials is suitable for some applications, but no single technology is capable of fast and efficient response that can produce a very wide range of stiffness and damping with a high elongation capability, that is, go from rubber to rigid. Such a material would be capable of a change in its maximum elastic energy of deformation of 50,000 J/cm3. No existing material is within three orders of magnitude of this value. Similarly, no material appears capable of going from a very lightly damped to a very heavily damped condition over a wide range of motion. We suggest an approach based on composites whose meso-scale structure can be changed with actuation or change in intrinsic properties. Passive composite meta-materials have been demonstrated, however, such active composite meta-materials have not yet been demonstrated.
The subcellular distribution of acyl CoA: Dihydroxyacetone phosphate acyl transferase in guinea pig liver

Abstract Upon differential centrifugation, the enzyme acyl CoA: dihydroxyacetone phosphate acyl transferase (EC 2.3.1.42) in guinea pig liver is shown to sediment in a lysosomal-peroxisomal fraction. Comparison of the distribution of the marker enzymes and of DHAP acyl transferase indicates that the acyl transferase is localized in peroxisomes (microbodies).
Clinical Potential of Growth Factors in Neurological Disorders

Growth (or neurotrophic) factors promote the differentiation, growth and survival of numerous peripheral and central nervous system neurons during development and adulthood. During the last decade, significant advances have been made in understanding the biological role of these compounds. These advances have produced converging lines of evidence that support the use of neurotrophic factors in neurodegenerative diseases.
The Signs of Silence

How does auditory cortex respond to silence? In this issue of Neuron, Fukushima et al. (2012) show that activity in macaque auditory cortex is highly structured even in the absence of sensory stimuli. These data reveal a close link between spontaneous neural activity and the functional organization of auditory cortex.
Thermodynamic influences on one dimensional shock waves and induced discontinuities in thermoelastic bodies and second order effects

Abstract The behavior of one dimensional shock waves and induced discontinuities propagating in thermoelastic bodies is examined. We consider specific representations of the constitutive relations and show that to within second order of the shock strength differences between the predictions of thermoelastic and elastic theories are manifested. In particular, the shock speed is greater, the evolutionary behavior of the shock amplitude and that of the induced discontinuity are less pronounced in the thermoelastic theory. We also exhibit certain features of the solution of the coupled equations governing the behavior of shocks and induced discontinuities.
Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Outflow Obstruction Due to Oviductal Fimbriae: A Case Report

Outflow obstruction is a common cause of peritoneal dialysis catheter malfunction. We report an unusual case of outflow obstruction caused by oviductal fimbriae. Mini-laparatomy and repositioning of the catheter without excising the fallopian tube resulted in good outcome.
Working to Improve the Consumer Price Index

he recent report of the Advisory Commission appointed by the U.S. SenateFinance Committee begins with one overarching recommendation: ‘‘TheBLS should establish a cost-of-living index (COLI) as its objective in mea-suring consumer prices’’ (U.S. Senate, 1996, p. 2). This seems basically right to us.Indeed, the BLS has long said that the cost-of-living framework guides operationaldecisions about the construction of the index (Gillingham, 1974; U.S. Bureau ofLabor Statistics, 1984, 1988, 1992, 1997a). Putting things slightly differently, if theBLS staff or other technical experts knew how to produce a true cost-of-living indexon a monthly production schedule, that would be what we would produce. Althoughwe have no fundamental disagreement with the Commission about what the objec-tive of the CPI program ought to be, we may disagree to some extent about theapproaches and methods that are appropriate and feasible in working toward thatobjective. This is a point to which we will return below.Our ﬁrst purpose in the present paper is to comment on the Advisory Com-mission’s report and the recommendations it contains.
The Institution of Polygamy in the Chinese Imperial Palace

Copyright © The Association for Asian Studies, Inc. 2013. This is the published version of the article, made available with the permission of the publisher. The original published version can be found at: http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0021911813001137
Proposal for a macro/meso-scopic Greenberger–Horne–Zeilinger test of quantum mechanics with entangled optical travelling-wave coherent states

An optical realization of the Greenberger, Horne, Zeilinger (GHZ) state is proposed for testing local realistic theories. The optical GHZ states in this case are three-mode entangled coherent states and the relevant observable used to perform tests of quantum mechanics against local realistic theories is photon number parity. The amplitudes of the coherent states need to be mesoscopic if significant losses are involved but may be macroscopic if losses are minimal. A method is proposed for generating the required GHZ state that amounts to an extension of a proposal previously discussed (C.C. Gerry, Phys. Rev. A 59 4095 (1999)) for generating macroscopic superposition states of travelling wave fields.
Using Online Video to Support Student Learning and Engagement

Online videos are used increasingly in higher education teaching as part of the explosion of Web 2.0 tools that are now available. YouTube is one popular example of a video-sharing resource that both faculty and students can use effectively, both inside and outside of the classroom, to engage students in their learning, energize classroom discussion, and meet course learning goals. The authors, integrating current literature with their own classroom experiences, describe different types of assignments for which online video can be effectively used.
'I'm not sexist, but . . .': How ideological dilemmas reinforce sexism in talk about intimate partner violence

In order to extend knowledge about the communicative aspects of intimate partner violence (IPV), we ask how those who talk about IPV frame the relationship between gender and power. How does their ...
A cytoplasmic cAMP-binding protein in Dictyostelium discoideum.

Abstract A cytoplasmic cAMP-binding protein from Dictyostelium discoideum was purified about 1200-fold. The binding protein is relatively specific for cAMP, but also binds some other adenine derivatives; it has a molecular weight of approximately 185,000 and an apparent KD of 1 μM cAMP. The highest level of cytoplasmic cAMP-binding activity is found in amoebae which have been starved for 0–2 hr. Amoebal extracts contain inhibitors of cAMP binding which are removed by chromatography through Sephacryl S200.
81 HIGH THROUGHPUT VITRIFICATION OF IN VIVO FERTILIZED AND IN VITRO CULTURED PORCINE EMBRYOS

One barrier to successfully making embryo transfer viable in the swine industry is an inability to consistently cryopreserve oocytes and embryos. This process is made difficult by the high lipid content of porcine oocytes and embryos. The objective of this study was to test the in vivo fertilized embryo’s sensitivity to vitrification. Gilts were inseminated on the first day of standing oestrus (Day 0) and then again 12 h later. On Day 2 the oviducts and tip of the uterine horns were flushed with PVA-treated TL-HEPES and 2-cell stage embryos were collected and placed into PVA-treated TL-HEPES and centrifuged at 17 000 × g. The treatment groups were 1) 300 mOsmo centrifuged for 6 min, 2) 500 mOsmo centrifuged for 6 min, 3) 500 mOsmo centrifuged for 12 min, and 4) 500 mOsmo centrifuged for 18 min. After centrifugation the embryos were transferred to Porcine Zygote Medium 3 (PZM3) and cultured to Day 6 or 7 at which point blastocysts were vitrified using 10% DMSO, 10% ethylene glycol in M199 supplemented with 20% FBS (holding medium) for 2 min. Embryos were transferred to holding media with 20% DMSO and 20% ethylene glycol and drawn into an open pulled straw via capillary reaction; it was then submerged into LN2. Embryos were thawed using a step down concentration of 0.33 mM and then 0.2 mM sucrose in holding media each for 6–7 min and then were moved to holding medium alone for 6 to 7 min. The embryos were washed in PZM3, then transferred to 500 μL of PZM3 and cultured for 18 h. Re-expanded embryos were observed, and the nuclei of all embryos were stained with Biz-benzimide and visualised with UV light to determine total cell number. After the embryos were centrifuged and cultured, there was no difference in development to blastocyst (SAS Institute, Cary, NC, USA; Proc GLM) with a mean percentage blastocyst of 85.1% and an N of 54, 51, 53, and 51, respectively, for each treatment. After thawing, percentage of embryos re-expanded was 23.5a, 26.4a,b, 43.2a,b, and 45.6b, respectively. Data was analysed using a PROC GLM in SAS (P < 0.05), with 37, 43, 30, and 36 embryos in each group, respectively. No difference in total cell number across treatments was detected after analysis using PROC GLM in SAS (P < 0.05) with a mean cell number of 29.0. These data suggest that in vivo matured and fertilized blastocysts can survive high osmolarity treatment, centrifugation, and vitrification. The data also show that a high osmolarity treatment centrifuged for 18 min leads to a greater number of re-expanded embryos post-thaw, which may be attributed to better separation of the lipid. Funded by the NIH NCRR R21RR025879 and Food for the 21st Century.
Quantitative determination of acyl chain composition of subnanomole amounts of cellular long-chain acyl-coenzyme A esters

A procedure for the quantitative determination of the acyl chain composition of cellular long-chain acyl-CoA esters in subnanomole amounts is described. The abundant cellular lipids of samples are removed by extraction with organic solvents, and the proteins are precipitated from the aqueous phase by the addition of acetonitrile. The CoA thiolesters are adsorbed on neutral aluminum oxide and reduced with sodium borohydride to the corresponding alcohols that are then converted to t-butyldimethylsilyl ethers and analyzed quantitatively by gas chromatography. Saturated and unsaturated acyl chains behaved similarly throughout the procedure, and the common lipid esters do not interfere with the analysis of the CoA esters in the final assay procedure described. This simple and relatively rapid method is suitable for analyzing a large number of samples at a time.
Pharmacy Student Impact on Inappropriate Prescribing of Acid Suppressive Therapy

Objective. To examine the impact that having pharmacy students on internal medicine patient care teams had on inappropriate prescribing of acid suppressive therapy (AST).Methods. In this observational cohort study, internal medicine patients who received care from teams with a pharmacy student were compared to patients who received care from teams without a pharmacy student. The primary endpoint was proportion of patients on inappropriate AST.Results. The overall proportion of patients receiving inappropriate AST was 24.4%. There was no significant difference between patients seen by teams with a pharmacy student and those seen by teams without a pharmacy student. The proportion of patients discharged with new inappropriate AST prescriptions was lower after pharmacy student review, though not significantly (6.1% vs. 9.4%, p = 0.07). Pharmacy student reviews shortened the median duration of inappropriate AST by 1.5 days (6 vs. 8.5 days, p = 0.025).Conclusions. Patient care teams on which pharmacy students ...
Clinical outcome of fractures of the talar body

Fractures of the talar body present a great challenge to surgeons due to their rarity and high incidence of sequelae. This study reports the medium-term results of displaced fractures of the talar body treated by internal fixation. Nineteen patients (13 M, 6 F, mean age 31) with talar body fractures were studied retrospectively to assess outcome after operative treatment. The fractures were classified as coronal (11), sagittal (6) and crush fractures (2). Six patients sustained open fractures and two had associated talar neck fractures. Average follow-up was 26 months (range: 18–43). Clinical outcome based on American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scoring was excellent function in four patients, good in six, fair in four and poor in five. Early complications included two superficial wound infections, one partial wound dehiscence, one instance of skin necrosis and one deep infection. Other complications included delayed union in one, avascular necrosis in seven and malunion in one patient. Talar injuries are serious because they can compromise motion of the foot and ankle and result in severe disability. Crush fractures of the talar body and those associated with open injuries and talar neck fractures are associated with a less favourable outcome.
Bortezomib and osteoblast cell lineage in myeloma bone disease

Bone loss is an established consequence of both inflammatory disease and its treatment with therapeutic glucocorticoids. We have previously demonstrated that the effects of glucocorticoids on bone are principally determined by the 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzymes. There are two 11β-HSD enzymes, the type 1 enzyme primarily converts inactivate glucocorticoids such as cortisone and prednisone to their active counterparts cortisol and prednisolone. The 11β-HSD2 enzyme catalyses the opposite reaction. The expression of 11β-HSD1 in osteoblasts has also been found to be increased by proinflammatory cytokines, thus high levels of active glucocorticoids are likely to be produced in bone in response to inflammation. This local production of cortisol within osteoblasts in response to inflammation could account for the uncoupling of bone formation from resorption that is a common feature of inflammatory arthritis. Recently we have found that 11β-HSD1 is expressed at high levels in synovial fibroblasts both in vitro and in vivo. This high expression leads to an increased level of active glucocorticoids within synovial fluid. This high level of glucocorticoids is proposed to be an attempt to restrain the degree of inflammation during chronic inflammation. However, it is also clearly possible that a persisting production of large amounts of active glucocorticoids within the synovium will have a negative impact on adjacent bone tissue. Whether this negative effect is due to direct effects of glucocorticoids on bone tissue or mediated through glucocorticoid-induced changes in intermediary signaling pathways remains to be established. Whatever the mechanisms involved the finding that active glucocorticoids are generated both within synovium and inflamed bone tissue means that our previous views of glucocorticoid induced osteoporosis need to be revised.
Regional public goods and international organizations

This article focuses on the provision prognosis for regional public goods (RPGs) and the role of international organizations in fostering supply in developing countries. All three properties of publicness—i.e., nonrivalry of benefits, nonexcludability of nonpayers, and the aggregation technology—play a role in this prognosis. The paper highlights many provision impediments, not faced by national or global public goods. When intervention is necessary, the analysis distinguishes the role of global, regional, and other institutional arrangements (e.g., networks and public-private partnerships). The pros and cons of subsidiarity are addressed.
Temperature Influences the Postelectroporation Permeability State of the Skin

The influence of temperature on the electrical conductance and transport of macromolecules across porcine epidermis during and after electroporation were studied. The passive diffusion of fluorescein isothiocyanate labeled dextran (molecular weight 10 kDa, FD10K), across the epidermis did not differ much at temperatures below 37 degrees C, but became significantly higher above 40 degrees C. The resistance drop during pulse application was less sensitive to temperature within the temperature range (10-50 degrees C) of this study. The kinetics of decrease in postpulse conductance of the electroporated epidermis was fit to a monoexponential function. The rate of decrease in postpulse conductance was significantly less and FD10K transport was markedly high at temperature over 40 degrees C relative to those observed at temperatures less than 37 degrees C. This jump in transport cannot be explained by electrophoresis induced by the pulse, or by the increased diffusion kinesis of the molecules. The enhanced transport is most likely due to the prolonged postpulse permeable state of the skin. Electroporation at mild hyperthermia temperatures resulted in delivering much higher quantities of macromolecules.
How does banking industry consolidation affect bank–firm relationships? Evidence from a large Japanese bank merger

Abstract We employ standard event study methodology to examine how bank consolidation affected bank–firm relationships in Japan. We also investigate the source of relationship benefits to client firms. Our analyses focus on the case of Mizuho Holdings, which became the largest bank in the world upon the merger of three large Japanese banks on August 19, 1999. Our findings indicate that firms using one of the three banks as their main bank or for large credit exposures did not experience the significant negative stock price reactions of nonmain bank or lower credit exposure firms. Multiple regression analyses reveal that, holding constant a number of firm-level characteristics, main bank status was the most important determinant of bank–firm relationships in Japan. Further tests suggest a lesser though significant role for the size of loans from the main bank.
Correlation of North American Ordovician bentonites by using apatite chemistry

Middle Ordovician bentonites in the central and southeastern United States have been correlated on the basis of rare-earth element (REE) concentrations of primary apatite phenocrysts. Ratios of light to heavy REE, such as La/Tb or Ce/Yb, produce the best separation of the four studied bentonites. The Deicke bentonite has been correlated over a distance of more than 1000 km, from southern Minnesota to central Tennessee, and the Millbrig bentonite has been correlated over 750 km, from central Minnesota to central Missouri. The successful discrimination of closely spaced bentonites over a long distance demonstrates that apatite chemistry is a powerful correlation tool on a continental scale.
Secure Web-based access to radiology: Forms and databases for fast queries

Currently, Web-based access to mini-PACS or similar databases commonly utilizes either JavaScript, Java applets or ActiveX controls. Many sites do not permit applets or controls or other binary objects for fear of viruses or worms sent by malicious users. In addition, the typical CGI query mechanism requires several parameters to be sent with the http GET/POST request, which may identify the patient in some way; this in unacceptable for privacy protection. Also unacceptable are pages produced by server-side scripts which can be cached by the browser, since these may also contain sensitive information. We propose a simple mechanism for access to patient information, including images, which guarantees security of information, makes it impossible to bookmark the page, or to return to the page after some defined length of time. In addition, this mechanism is simple, therefore permitting rapid access without the need to initially download an interface such as an applet or control. In addition to image display, the design of the site allows the user to view and save movies of multi-phasic data, or to construct multi-frame datasets from entire series. These capabilities make the site attractive for research purposes such as teaching file preparation.© (2002) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Incorporating Surface Soil Moisture Information in Error Modeling of TRMM Passive Microwave Rainfall

This study assesses the significance of conditioning the error modeling of The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)'s Tropical Rainfall Measurement Mission Microwave Imager rainfall algorithm (2A12) to near-surface soil moisture data derived from a land surface model. The term “conditioning” means the model parameters' dependence on soil wetness. The Oklahoma (OK) region is used as the study area due to its relatively low vegetation and smooth terrain and the availability of high-quality in situ hydrometeorological data from the Mesonet network. The study period includes two warm seasons (March to October) from 2009 and 2010. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/National Severe Storms Laboratory ground radar-based National Mosaic and Quantitative Precipitation Estimation system (NMQ/Q2) is used as high-resolution (5-min/1-km) reference rainfall. The surface wetness conditions (wet, dry, and normal) were determined from surface soil moisture fields simulated by the NASA Catchment Land Surface Model forced with Q2 rainfall fields. A 2-D satellite rainfall error model, SREM2D, is used to provide the ensemble error representation of 2A12 rainfall using two different parameter calibration approaches: conditioning the SREM2D parameters to the surface soil wetness categories versus not. The statistical analysis of model-generated ensembles and associated error metrics show better performance when surface wetness information is used in SREM2D. In terms of quantification, the ensemble rainfall from the conditional SREM2D parameter calibration shows better reference rainfall encapsulation. The conditioning of SREM2D to soil wetness can apply to rainfall rate estimates from other microwave sensors on board low Earth orbiting satellites and is valuable for the forthcoming missions on precipitation (Global Precipitation Measurement) and soil moisture (Soil Moisture Active Passive).
Economic dependency on work: A moderator of the relationship between organizational commitment and performance.

This study examined the role of employees' financial requirements as a moderator of the relationship between their organizational commitment and performance. Hypotheses were tested on two samples of salespeople from different organizations. The results of hierarchical regression analysis indicated stronger relationships between organizational commitment and performance for those with low financial requirements than for those with high requirements.
Hyaluronan and CD44 expression in minor salivary gland tumors.

OBJECTIVES: Hyaluronan (HA) and CD44 are most likely associated with tumor invasion and metastasis. Malignancies with different degrees of aggressiveness may express different levels and patterns of HA and CD44. The aim of this project was to examine the distribution of HA and CD44 in minor salivary gland tumors to determine if staining could be correlated with biologic behavior or tumor type. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Biotinylated hyaluronan binding protein as a probe for HA and monoclonal antibodies specific for CD44 were used to stain classic examples of the five most commonly encountered minor salivary gland tumors: monomorphic adenomas, pleomorphic adenomas, polymorphous low grade adenocarcinomas, mucoepidermoid carcinomas, and adenoid cystic carcinomas. RESULTS: Tumor cells of monomorphic adenomas were negative for both HA and CD44, and tumor capsules were intensely HA-positive. Pleomorphic adenomas exhibited HA and CD44 positivity in both mesenchymal and epithelial components, and HA in capsular tissues. All malignant salivary gland tumors expressed similar intense HA in tumor stroma. HA staining was more intense in stroma than in parenchymal cells. Tumor cells of most adenoid cystic carcinomas were HA-positive, while most polymorphous low grade adenocarcinomas were HA-negative. HA was uniformly distributed throughout supporting stroma of high and low grade malignancies, except for two polymorphous low grade adenocarcinomas (PLGAs) in which HA was more intense at the invading edge of the tumors. CD44 expression was seen only in tumor cells (not stroma) of malignancies, and was of similar intensity in both low and high grade tumors. CONCLUSIONS: Differences in the expression of HA and CD44 among different types of salivary gland tumors were noted. These findings, however, could not be correlated with known biologic behaviors of the tumor groups studied. Immunohistochemical staining of salivary gland tumors for HA and CD44 may be useful in separating monomorphic adenoma, polymorphous low grade adenocarcinoma and adenoid cystic carcinoma, lesions that may be difficult to distinguish with routine light microscopy.
Spontaneous host endothelial growth on bioprosthetic valves and its relation to calcification

We studied host endothelial growth and calcification of bovine pericardial valve prostheses treated with: (A) 0.625% glutaraldehyde + 4% formaldehyde, (B) 99.5% glycerol or (C) 99.5% glycerol + 4% formaldehyde. Twenty-three stentless chordally supported bileaflet pericardial mitral valves with treatments A (n = 6), B (n = 6) or C (n = 11) were implanted in juvenile sheep for 125-273 days. After sacrifice, the anterior cusp from the annulus to papillary muscle of each valve was examined by scanning electron microscopy for the presence of endothelial cells, and the intrinsic calcification of each valve was determined by measuring calcium (μg/mg dry weight) from another 1 cm 2 piece of grossly normal cusp
Quantitative analysis of plasminogen activator in small arteries by modified fibrin plates.

The assay of plasminogen activator at the intimal surfaces of arteries less than 2 mm in diameter is possible using streptokinase- treated fibrin plates. Femoral arteries obtained from rats showed a reproducible fibrinolysis at their intimal surfaces that could be quantitated for the analysis of plasminogen activator. Utilization of the assay adjusted to the experimental situation would give a method of evaluating changes in the concentration of plasminogen activator at the intimal surface of small arteries when studied under various research conditions.
Control of Burn Wound Infection with Norfloxacin and Its Silver Derivative

The emergence of resistant organisms has impaired the efficacy of topical therapy and hence other drugs have been investigated, ftforfloxacin, a quinoline carboxylic acid compound, exhibits a broad spectrum of activity against gram-negative and gram-positive organisms and a silver derivative displayed even greater activity in vitro. These compounds were then tested in burned mice and rats infected with organisms resistant to topical silver sulfadiazine therapy. In experiments with strains resistant to silver sulfadiazine, norfloxacin and silver norfloxacin reduced mortality to nil. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of these compounds is lower than silver sulfadiazine, and the drugs in vitro are effective in the presence of serum. This extension of our preliminary work includes fungi and a wide variety of Pseudomonas strains resistant or sensitive to silver sulfadiazine as test organisms. The high degree of efficacy, with no evidence of toxicity in the relatively low concentration needed, discloses compounds effective against silver sulfadiazine-resistant organisms.
Evidence against the Presence of Wolbachia in a Population of the Crayfish Species Procambarus clarkii

Wolbachia is a genus of intracellular alpha-Proteobacteria that is maternally inherited and is capable of inducing a variety of reproductive alterations in host species. The host range of Wolbachia is not determined completely but is known to contain a number of arthropod taxa, including crustaceans. Wolbachia has not been reported in crayfish, but sampling has been limited to date. We examine a species of crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, for Wolbachia infection using a suite of Wolbachia-specific primers in PCR assays. All specimens yielded negative results for Wolbachia infection and mathematical analysis of sample size shows a near 100% probability of detection for populations with greater than 0.1% infection rate.
Calorimetric study of high-pressure polymorphs of MnSiO3

With increasing pressure, MnSiO3 rhodonite stable at atmospheric pressure transforms to pyroxmangite, then to clinopyroxene and further to tetragonal garnet, which finally decomposes into MnO (rocksalt) plus SiO2 (stishovite). High temperature solution calorimetry of synthetic rhodonite, clinopyroxene and garnet forms of MnSiO3 was used to measure the enthalpies of these transitions. ΔH 974 0 for the rhodonite-clinopyroxene and ΔH 298 0 for the clinopyroxene-garnet transition are 520±490 and 8,270±590 cal/mol, respectively. The published data on the enthalpy of the rhodonite-pyroxmangite transition, phase equilibrium boundaries, compressibility and thermal expansion data are used to calculate entropy changes for the transitions. The enthalpy, entropy and volume changes are very small for all the transitions among rhodonite, pyroxmangite and clinopyroxene. The calculated boundary for the clinopyroxene-garnet transition is consistent with the published experimental results. The pyroxene-garnet transition in several materials, including MnSiO3, is characterized by a relatively small negative entropy change and large volume decrease, resulting in a small positiveP – T slope. The disproportionation of MnSiO3 garnet to MnO plus stishovite and of Mn2SiO4 olivine to garnet plus MnO are calculated to occur at about 17–18 and 14–15 GPa, respectively, at 1,000–1,500 K.
Politics in Play

Building an adaptive power grid requires cooperation, getting a common agreement among a large collection of engineers, investors, policy makers, corporate executives, and voters.
Anisotropic structural and electronic properties of InSb/AlxIn1−xSb quantum wells grown on GaAs (001) substrates

Abstract Structural defects in InSb/Al x In 1− x Sb quantum-well samples grown on (0 0 1) GaAs substrates have been investigated using transmission electron microscopy. A high density of dislocations is created at the interface between the InSb nucleation layer and the substrate, while {1 1 1}-planar defects are introduced at various locations. An InSb/Al x In 1− x Sb interface 920 nm above the InSb/GaAs interface acts as a trapping site for many dislocations. The majority of the {1 1 1}-planar defects are micro-twins with {1 1 1}-bilayer thickness fluctuations. The anisotropic distribution of the micro-twins correlates with the measured anisotropic electron mobility in the quantum well.
Ethanol and diazepam withdrawal convulsions are extensively codetermined in WSP and WSR mice

Selective breeding was used to produce lines of mice which differ markedly in their genetically-mediated vulnerability to handling-induced convulsions (HIC) associated with the ethanol withdrawal syndrome. These are known as the ethanol withdrawal seizure prone (WSP) and withdrawal seizure resistant (WSR) selection lines. As a result of 5 generations of selective breeding with ethanol, a 3.4-fold difference between WSP and WSR mice was seen in HIC associated with ethanol withdrawal. When diazepam was used as the dependence-producing drug, a 2.4-fold difference emerged. After 6 more generations of selective breeding with ethanol, an approximate 10-fold difference was seen with ethanol, while with diazepam, this difference in HIC scores was also about 10-fold. This close parallel between ethanol and diazepam indicates that physical dependence on both drugs, as indexed by handling-induced convulsions, is extensively codetermined by the same genes, and thus by the same mechanisms, in these selectively-bred mice.