cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Activity of different segments of rabbit gastrointestinal tract

Five different segments of the rabbit intestinal tract, (duodenum, jejunum, ileum, ascending and descending colon), were used to record the normal activity of these segments using an isolated muscle bath technique. Kymograph recordings and transducer-recorder recordings were compared. Contractions per minute, interval between contractions, and amplitude of contractions were observed and evaluated. In the transducer recorded series, t tests indicated statistically significant difference for all comparisons of contractions per minute. From 60 comparisons of normal rabbit intestinal activity using t tests, only 5 comparisons were not found to be significantly different at P 0.05.
The many methods of religious coping: Development and initial validation of the RCOPE

The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a new theoretically based measure that would assess the full range of religious coping methods, including potentially helpful and harmful religious expressions. The RCOPE was tested on a large sample of college students who were coping with a significant negative life event. Factor analysis of the RCOPE in the college sample yielded factors largely consistent with the conceptualization and construction of the subscales. Confirmatory factor analysis of the RCOPE in a large sample of hospitalized elderly patients was moderately supportive of the initial factor structure. Results of regression analyses showed that religious coping accounted for significant unique variance in measures of adjustment (stress-related growth, religious outcome, physical health, mental health, and emotional distress) after controlling for the effects of demographics and global religious measures (frequency of prayer, church attendance, and religious salience). Better adjustment was related to a number of coping methods, such as benevolent religious reappraisals, religious forgiveness/purification, and seeking religious support. Poorer adjustment was associated with reappraisals of God's powers, spiritual discontent, and punishing God reappraisals. The results suggest that the RCOPE may be useful to researchers and practitioners interested in a comprehensive assessment of religious coping and in a more complete integration of religious and spiritual dimensions in the process of counseling.
Stability of ordinary dislocations on cross-slip planes in γ-TiAl

Abstract Ordinary dislocations in γ-TiAl frequently cross-slip onto various non-primary slip planes at high temperatures. The anomalous hardening in γ-TiAl was believed to be linked to cross-slip behavior. Therefore, the stability of ordinary dislocations and the interaction energy of kink pairs or jog pairs in these cross-slip planes were examined to understand the cross-slip behavior. The energy factors and line tension for 1/2〈110] screw dislocations in γ-TiAl were calculated on the basis of the Sextic formalism. Inverse Wulff plots were applied to determine the instability of dislocations on (111), (110) and (001) glide planes. The dislocations are stable due to the convexity of the plots and always have positive line tension. The interaction energy in kink pairs on the cross-slip planes were calculated. The results show that the interaction energy was highly anisotropic in the cross-slip planes and was found to be the minimum on the (110) plane, which is consistent with the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations in the literature. The temperature effects on the stability and interaction energy were also investigated using six independent elastic constants at different temperatures.
Heritage Conservation and Urban Development in India

This paper discusses the role a voluntary organization plays in the spatial definition and material conservation of cultural heritage in late twentieth century India. Voluntary organizations work in a broad range of fields in India, but the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) may be of particular interest to applied anthropologists because of its creative uses of anthropological concepts and methods. In addition, since the concept of culture is not confined to academic discourse today, anthropologists may find it worthwhile to learn about other public and private ways culture is defined and cultural analysis is carried out.
Initiation and propagation of a penny-shaped crack in a finitely deformed incompressible elastic medium

Abstract The effects that the initial lateral stress has on the initiation and the propagation of a penny-shaped crack are investigated on the basis of the theory of small deformations superposed on finite deformation for an incompressible elastic material. Using the methods of the Laplace and Hankel transforms, the crack shape function and the stress distribution with singularities in the crack plane are obtained in closed forms for the crack propagating at a constant speed in the Mooney material. The dynamic stress-intensity factor is obtained as a function of the initial lateral stretch and the ratio of the crack speed to the shear wave speed. For the same crack speed, the value of the dynamic stress-intensity factor increases with increasing lateral stretch, but decreases if the lateral compression increases. The dynamic solutions reduce to the associated static solutions at zero crack speed. For the stationary crack, the stress-intensity factor is shown to be independent of the initial stress. However, the initial lateral stretch increases, but the lateral compression decreases the value of the critical stress required for the initiation of crack growth on the basis of the Griffith theory. The central crack opening displacement is shown to decrease if the lateral stretch increases or the lateral compression decreases.
A Biomimetic Collagen-Apatite Scaffold with a Multi-Level Lamellar Structure for Bone Tissue Engineering.

Collagen–apatite (Col–Ap) scaffolds have been widely employed for bone tissue engineering. We fabricated Col–Ap with a unique multi-level lamellar structure consisting of co-aligned micro- and macro-pores. The basic building blocks of this scaffold are bone-like mineralized collagen fibers developed via a biomimetic self-assembly process in a collagen-containing modified simulated body fluid (m-SBF). This biomimetic method preserves the structural integrity and great tensile strength of collagen by reinforcing the collagen hydrogel with apatite nano-particles. Unidirectional aligned macro-pores with a size of 63.8 to 344 μm are created by controlling the freezing rate and direction. The thickness of Col–Ap lamellae can be adjusted in the range 3.6 to 23 μm depending on the self-compression time. Furthermore, the multi-level lamellar structure has led to a twelve-fold increase in Young's modulus and a two-fold increase in the compression modulus along the aligned direction compared to a scaffold of the same composition with an isotropic equiaxed pore structure. Moreover, this novel lamellar scaffold supports the attachment and spreading of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. Therefore, owing to the biomimetic composition, tunable structure, improved mechanical strength and good biocompatibility of this novel scaffold, it has great potential to be used in bone tissue engineering applications.
Presence of a novel epithelial antigen on rat cerebellar cell lines as detected by a monoclonal antibody

We have derived a monoclonal antibody, MCAb 51, following immunization of BALB/c mice with a Rous sarcoma virus-transformed rat cerebellar cell line. When assayed by immunofluorescence on primary rat cerebellar cultures MCAb 51 recognizes only islands of cells with an epitheloid morphology. Double-label immunofluorescence experiments with MCAb 51 and antisera to tetanus toxin, glial fibrillary acidic protein, galactocerebroside and fibronectin reveal that these cells do not appear to be neurons, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, or fibroblasts, respectively. In contrast, cells from kidney, liver, tongue and choroid plexus epithelium are positive for the antigen. Of 12 Rous sarcoma virus-transformed cell lines, in contrast to 2 out of 9 chemically transformed lines, 11 exhibit the MCAb 51 antigen. These findings demonstrate that MCAb 51 recognizes an epithelial cell surface marker. Possible explanations for the difference in the expression of the antigen on Rous sarcoma virus and chemically transformed neural lines are discussed.
Single-dose darbepoetin administration to anemic preterm neonates.

Darbepoetin is longer acting and more potent than recombinant erythropoietin (rEpo). In certain situations, preterm neonates might benefit from rEpo, and for such patients darbepoetin would require fewer doses at a lower cost. However, the proper dose and dosing interval have not been established. We performed a prospective trial in two level III Neonatal Intensive Care Units. Patients 21-days-old and had a hemoglobin (Hgb) concentration ≤10.5 g/dl. In all, 12 were to receive a single subcutaneous (s.c.) dose at either 1 or 4 μg/kg. Once before the dose was given, and at two preset intervals after, blood was obtained for immature reticulocyte fraction (IRF) and absolute reticulocyte count (ARC). Once before and at four preset intervals after, blood was obtained for pharmacokinetic studies. The 12 subjects had BWs of 1129±245 g (mean±SD), were 29.2±1.2 weeks gestation at delivery, and were 43±12 days old with an Hgb concentration of 9.6±1.0 g/dl when the darbepoetin was given. Six received 1 μg/kg and six 4 μg/kg. The IRF increased (p<0.05) as did the ARC (p<0.05). The increases in IRF were somewhat greater among the 4 μg/kg recipients (P=0.06). The highest recorded concentrations of drug occurred 6 to 12 hours after administration. The combined 6 and 12 hours values were 185±106 mU/ml in the 1 μg/kg group vs 597±238 in the 4 μg/kg group (p<0.002). The t½ was 26 hours (range 10 to 50). The biovailability-normalized clearance was 19 ml/hour/kg (range 5 to 54). A single s.c. dose of darbepoetin given to preterm neonates accelerated effective erythropoiesis. The pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic findings suggest that darbepoetin dosing in neonates would require a higher unit dose/kg and a shorter dosing interval than are generally used for anemic adults.
In Vitro Metabolic Competence of the Frog Retina: Effects of Glucose and Oxygen Deprivation

The metabolic competence and histological integrity of the frog retina in vitro were evaluated as a function of the presence/absence of exogenous glucose and of oxygen tension. Dark- and light-adapted frog neural retinas were incubated for 1-8 hr at 23 degrees C in a modified Ringer's-bicarbonate medium under aerobic and anaerobic conditions, in the presence and absence of 10 mM glucose. Control retinas (+glucose, aerobic conditions) maintained ATP levels comparable to those of freshly excised tissue (ave. 17 nmol mg protein-1), produced minimal lactate (ave. 0.12 mumol mg protein-1 hr-1), and exhibited normal histology. In the absence of any exogenous carbon source, retinas incubated aerobically maintained ATP levels, produced lactate, incorporated [3H]acetate into nonsaponifiable lipids, and exhibited histology comparable to controls. In the presence of 1 mM iodoacetate, aerobic ATP levels declined markedly, with or without exogenous glucose. Under anaerobic conditions with glucose present, lactate production increased ca. 8.5-fold, while ATP levels were maintained at control levels, demonstrating a marked Pasteur effect; under these conditions, retinas exhibited only moderate histopathological changes. However, in the absence of both glucose and oxygen, ATP levels declined precipitously, with concomitant massive cytological deterioration. No major differences in the biochemical measurements or histological appearance were observed as a function of light adaptation. These results demonstrate the remarkable resilience of the frog retina to anoxia and hypoglycemic stress. Aerobically, with or without exogenous glucose, ATP production and de novo lipid synthesis are maintained, apparently by recruitment of an endogenous carbohydrate substrate (e.g., glycogen).
A multi-product EOQ model with pricing consideration—T. C. E. Cheng's model revisited

Abstract We present two major revisions/corrections regarding a recent paper by T.C.E. Cheng [Computers ind. Engng18, 529–534 (1990)]. Firstly, we note that a critical assumption of equal replenishment cycle length for all products is stated, but not incorporated into the mathematical formulation in Cheng. In this paper, we re-formulate the problem with equal replenishment cycle length incorporated and derive the corresponding Kuhn-Tucker optimality conditions. Next, under linear demand assumption, we show that the closed-form solutions provided by Cheng may result in non-optimal solutions. The reason is that Cheng failed to derive conditions under which closed-form solutions may be optimal. In this paper, by employing trigonometric methods {see e.g. Chap. 2 of Griffiths [Introduction of the Theory of Equations. Wiley, New York (1945).] or Appendix of Porteus [Mgmt Sci.31, 998–1010 (1985)]}, we derive an optimal closed-form solution that is unqiue and obtain conditions under which the optimal closed-form solution is valid.
Photodissociation of singlet ketene by two-step IR+UV excitation

The dissociation of ketene on its singlet potential energy surface has been studied using a two-step photoexcitation, followed by state-selective detection of the CH2 radical via laser-induced fluorescence (LIF). For the first step near 2.8 micrometers , a commercial optical parametric oscillator was actively stabilized with an external reference etalon, allowing scan durations of up to 1 hour. By tuning the wavelength of the UV photolysis laser, photofragment excitation spectra of high energy selectivity were recorded. Comparison with phase space theory calculations shows that the projection K of the angular momentum onto the molecular axis is strongly mixed for K > 0 and that for K equals 0 the extent of mixing increases with J.
Glucose and fructose to platform chemicals: understanding the thermodynamic landscapes of acid-catalysed reactions using high-level ab initio methods.

Molecular level understanding of acid-catalysed conversion of sugar molecules to platform chemicals such as hydroxy-methyl furfural (HMF), furfuryl alcohol (FAL), and levulinic acid (LA) is essential for efficient biomass conversion. In this paper, the high-level G4MP2 method along with the SMD solvation model is employed to understand detailed reaction energetics of the acid-catalysed decomposition of glucose and fructose to HMF. Based on protonation free energies of various hydroxyl groups of the sugar molecule, the relative reactivity of gluco-pyranose, fructo-pyranose and fructo-furanose are predicted. Calculations suggest that, in addition to the protonated intermediates, a solvent assisted dehydration of one of the fructo-furanosyl intermediates is a competing mechanism, indicating the possibility of multiple reaction pathways for fructose to HMF conversion in aqueous acidic medium. Two reaction pathways were explored to understand the thermodynamics of glucose to HMF; the first one is initiated by the protonation of a C2–OH group and the second one through an enolate intermediate involving acyclic intermediates. Additionally, a pathway is proposed for the formation of furfuryl alcohol from glucose initiated by the protonation of a C2–OH position, which includes a C–C bond cleavage, and the formation of formic acid. The detailed free energy landscapes predicted in this study can be used as benchmarks for further exploring the sugar decomposition reactions, prediction of possible intermediates, and finally designing improved catalysts for biomass conversion chemistry in the future.
AUGMENTING GROUNDWATER MONITORING NETWORKS NEAR LANDFILLS WITH SLURRY CUTOFF WALLS

This study investigated the use of slurry cutoff walls in conjunction with monitoring wells to detect contaminant releases from a solid waste landfill. The 50 m wide by 75 m long landfill was oriented oblique to regional groundwater flow in a shallow sand aquifer. Computer models calculated flow fields and the detection capability of six monitoring networks, four including a 1 m wide by 50 m long cutoff wall at various positions along the landfill's downgradient boundaries and upgradient of the landfill. Wells were positioned to take advantage of convergent flow induced downgradient of the cutoff walls. A five-well network with no cutoff wall detected 81% of contaminant plumes originating within the landfill's footprint before they reached a buffer zone boundary located 50 m from the landfill's downgradient corner. By comparison, detection efficiencies of networks augmented with cutoff walls ranged from 81 to 100%. The most efficient network detected 100% of contaminant releases with four wells, with a centrally located, downgradient cutoff wall. In general, cutoff walls increased detection efficiency by delaying transport of contaminant plumes to the buffer zone boundary, thereby allowing them to increase in size, and by inducing convergent flow at downgradient areas, thereby funneling contaminantplumes toward monitoring wells. However, increases in detection efficiency were too small to offset construction costs for cutoff walls. A 100% detection efficiency was also attained by an eight-well network with no cutoff wall, at approximately one-thirdthe cost of the most efficient wall-augmented network.
Probing the role of interfacial residues in a dimerization inhibitor of HIV-1 protease.

Abstract The importance of each side chain of a cross-linked interfacial peptide inhibitor of HIV-1 protease was evaluated using an alanine scanning approach. Whereas the parent inhibitor has an IC50 value of 350 nM, values for the mutations reported here range from 280 –9200 nM. The relative importance or each residue was thus assigned and correlated to the solvent accessible surface area (SASA) exposed upon mutation.
Conceptual and methodological issues in research on relationships between children and nonparental adults

Research on child-teacher relationships has implications for theories of social development and applications in child care and school settings.
Displacement of apparent straight ahead as an aftereffect of deviation of the eyes from normal position.

Helmholtz's proprioceptive theory of apparent visual direction predicts a displacement of egocentric straight ahead as an aftereffect of deviation of the eyes from normal frontal position. In a test of this prediction, 91 Ss (a) selected from a line of lighted discs that disc which appeared to be straight ahead, (b) fixated the eyes for 30 sec. on a point in the line of discs which was either 30° from frontal position or at the most extreme position attainable (approximately 45° from frontal position), (c) returned the eyes to what seemed to be frontal position and selected the disc which appeared to be straight ahead. Ocular deviation produced as an aftereffect a displacement of apparent straight ahead which had a mean value of 3.12° and occurred in the same meridian and in the same direction as the eyes had been deviated. The amount of displacement was not significantly affected by the degree of prior ocular deviation or by the orientation of the line of discs (vertical, horizontal, or diagonal).
Control of insulin secretion: a model involving Ca2+, cAMP and diacylglycerol.

Article synthese concernant les signaux intra- et extra-cellulaire responsables de l'induction de la secretion de l'insuline par les cellules β des ilots Langerhans. Le Ca 2+ , l'AMPcyclique et le diacylglycerol constituent les principaux elements dans cette regulation de l'activite secretoire
Motion Control of Multiple Arms

A multidimensional iterative model for the control analysis of two cooperating robots is proposed. The manipulation of a rigid object with elastic restraint between the object and the end effectors using the proposed model is investigated. The scheme is based on an iterative structure which utilizes available data from the previous operation for a specified trajectory and applied forces to the object. It is shown that the convergence of the actual trajectory to the desired one is guaranteed upon proper selction of a weighted control matrix.
Mapping the realm of hot Jupiters

The detection of short-period planets, or hot Jupiters, initially surprised astronomers. However, fossil imprints in the orbits of this ensemble of exoplanets have tremendous scientific value. The high 10% transit probability makes these prime candidates to measure planetary radii, model interior structure, observe exoplanet atmospheres, derive coplanarity of orbits and even to observe exoplanet weather.
A Subspecific Revision of North American Saltmarsh Mallow Kosteletzkya pentacarpos (L.) Ledeb. (Malvaceae)

Abstract Kosteletzkya pentacarpos (L.) Ledeb. (syn. = Kosteletzkya virginica (L.) C. Presl ex A. Gray) has been treated as a single variable species or as a species including four varieties: K. virginica var. althaeifolia, var. aquilonia, var. smilacifolia, and var. virginica. The aim of this study was to test the validity of formally recognizing these putative infraspecific taxa with a statistical analysis of morphological data. Loans were received from 15 herbaria, for 1,114 specimens; 224 were selected. Measurements were taken from these 224 specimens for 42 characters and analyzed by canonical discriminant analysis, which recognized two dimensions. Var. smilacifolia and var. aquilonia were separated from the other two groupings and correctly predicted at 100%. Var. smilacifolia is morphologically distinct from the other taxa in having linear hastate leaves with reflexed linear lobes, an unbranched inflorescence, a slender stem, and a mostly entire leaf margin. A new combination is proposed: Kostelet...
Isolation and properties of a new anticoagulant protein from commercial bovine testicular hyaluronidase

Abstract Bovine testicular hyaluronidase from various commercial sources showed the presence of an inhibitor of human plasma prothrombin time (PT). A testicular anticoagulant protein (TAP) was isolated from it by a 3-step procedure. The material was first passed through conconavalin-A-sepharose affinity chromatography where the anticoagulant material was separated from the hyaluronidase and protease which were retained by the column. In the second step the lower molecular weight proteins were removed by ultra-filtration. The supernatant which contained the anticoagulant protein was passed throught the carboxymethyl cellulose column and the active material was eluted by 0.4 M NaCl solution. Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) gel electrophoresis gave a molecular weight of ∼35000. Unlike many small molecular weight proteins from bovine testes, TAP looses its anticoagulant property by heating for 30 minutes at 55°C or by storage at pH 3.0 for 2 hours and it does not inhibit trypsin or thrombin. Its isoelectric pH was 9.7. Diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP) treated TAP was not effective as an anticoagulant.
Managing Chronic Heart Failure Patient in Chronic Kidney Disease

Management of systolic heart failure can be particularly challenging in patients with chronic kidney disease, especially those who are not yet receiving dialysis. Few clinical trials have been performed in this particular population, so management is directed by evidence from studies of patients with limited or no renal impairment. Their heightened risk for many treatment complications mandates additional considerations regarding drug selection, dosing, and monitoring. Subspecialty consultation is driven by patient instability or disease progression, intolerance of standard treatment, or need for device placement.
An empirical analysis of the factors determining the financial crisis in Asia

Abstract This article tests a hypothesis that the causes of the Asian financial crisis are weaknesses in the balance sheet of financial institutions, high international interest rates, high short-term external debts, excessive loans, and continuing large current account deficits. It also tests a hypothesis regarding the determination of nonperforming bank loans. Empirical tests are carried out with panel data on seven countries in Asia—Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand—for the 1995 through 1997 period. The 3-month LIBOR interest rate and nonperforming loan rates of banks are found to be the major determinants of the Asian financial crisis. The nonperforming bank loan ratios are explained by the corporate leverage ratio. In addition, both the corporate high leverage ratio and LIBOR interest rates are found to significantly affect the outcome of the Asian crisis. Lowering world interest rates and taking the measures of individual Asian countries to reduce nonperforming assets and debt-to-equity ratios would be very effective in preventing reoccurrence of the crisis.
The Fatality Risks of Sport-Utility Vehicles, Vans, and Pickups Relative to Cars

This paper examines the public health consequences of the regulatory subsidy given to light trucks. The empirical challenge is to disentangle the causal effects of light trucks from the selection bias that may occur due to drivers sorting into different vehicle types depending on their unobservable characteristics. I address this by using state variation of snow depth as an instrumental variable for vehicle miles traveled of light trucks and cars. This instrument has strong first-stage explanatory power. Since snow depth is likely a direct determinant of crashes, I meet the exclusion criteria by restricting the dependent variable to those crashes that occurred in the summer. My findings suggest that, given a crash, light trucks are more dangerous to others but less dangerous for those driving them. However, I also find that light trucks are more likely to crash than cars, which neutralizes the safety advantage to those who drive them. My estimates for aggregate fatalities suggest that a world of light trucks leads to substantially more fatalities than a world of cars.
Effect of 2'-O-[2-[2-(N,N-dimethylamino)ethoxy]ethyl] modification on activity of gapmer antisense oligonucleotides containing 2',4'-constrained 2'-O-ethyl nucleic acid.

Abstract We evaluated the effect of combining 2′- O -[2-[2-( N , N -dimethylamino)ethoxy]ethyl] (2′- O -DMAEOE), a 2′-cationic modification, with a 2′,4′-constrained 2′- O -ethyl nucleic acid (cEt BNA) on the activity of an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) using PTEN as a model target. Our results suggest that replacing one cEt BNA nucleotide with 2′- O -DMAEOE nucleotide at the 5′-end of a 2-10-2 gapmer ASO maintained the potency relative to parent ASO in liver. The cationic 2′- O -DMAEOE modification did not improve the activity of ASO in extra-hepatic tissues. Results from this study provide guidance to design improved antisense oligonucleotide drugs.
Reduction of metal leaching by poplars during soil treatment of wastewaters: small-scale proof of concept studies.

Abstract Land application of food processing wastewaters, a common practice, can create continuously saturated and reducing soil conditions that potentially mobilize native soil metals such as arsenic, manganese, and iron, contributing to contamination of groundwater. Small-scale column studies were used to evaluate the potential of poplar trees to decrease groundwater contamination from land application of wastewaters. Research assessed growth of poplar trees during land application of food processing wastewater, the evapotranspiration by poplar trees under such conditions, and treatment of chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrate, iron, and manganese in columns with and without poplar trees for four months. In addition, plant tissues and soil were analyzed for metals, macronutrients, and micronutrients at the conclusion of the experiment. Poplar growth, as measured by shoot height, shoot mass, number of leaves, number of shoots, mass of leaves, and root length, was not affected by application of fruit and vegetable processing wastewater at the rate of 1–2 times the highest reported application rate in Michigan. However, significantly less root mass and fewer root branches were observed in columns receiving wastewater at the end of the experiment. Poplar trees withstood continuous saturation of soils and evapotranspired significantly more water than no plant controls, with an average evapotranspiration coefficient of 3.25. Mass removal rate of chemical oxygen demand (COD) was significantly higher in columns with poplar trees than in soil-only columns. Additionally, leaching of nitrate and iron was lower in columns with poplar trees than in soil only columns. Poplars accumulated arsenic, manganese and iron, and translocated these metals into above-ground tissues. Therefore, poplar trees demonstrated the ability to decrease saturation, potentially modify redox conditions, and uptake metals—resulting in decreased leaching of COD, nitrate, iron, and manganese during land application of food processing wastewaters.
Cooperative cross-bridge activation of thin filaments contributes to the Frank-Starling mechanism in cardiac muscle.

Myosin cross-bridges play an important role in the regulation of thin-filament activation in cardiac muscle. To test the hypothesis that sarcomere length (SL) modulation of thin-filament activation by strong-binding cross-bridges underlies the Frank-Starling mechanism, we inhibited force and strong cross-bridge binding to intermediate levels with sodium vanadate (Vi). Force and stiffness varied proportionately with [Ca2+] and [Vi]. Increasing [Vi] (decreased force) reduced the pCa50 of force-[Ca2+] relations at 2.3 and 2.0 μm SL, with little effect on slope (nH). When maximum force was inhibited to ∼40%, the effects of SL on force were diminished at lower [Ca2+], whereas at higher [Ca2+] (pCa < 5.6) the relative influence of SL on force increased. In contrast, force inhibition to ∼20% significantly reduced the sensitivity of force-[Ca2+] relations to changes in both SL and myofilament lattice spacing. Strong cross-bridge binding cooperatively induced changes in cardiac troponin C structure, as measured by dichroism of 5′ iodoacetamido-tetramethylrhodamine-labeled cardiac troponin C. This apparent cooperativity was reduced at shorter SL. These data emphasize that SL and/or myofilament lattice spacing modulation of the cross-bridge component of cardiac thin-filament activation contributes to the Frank-Starling mechanism.
Determining Chondritic Impactor Size from the Marine Osmium Isotope Record

Decreases in the seawater 187Os/188Os ratio caused by the impact of a chondritic meteorite are indicative of projectile size, if the soluble fraction of osmium carried by the impacting body is known. Resulting diameter estimates of the Late Eocene and Cretaceous/Paleogene projectiles are within 50% of independent estimates derived from iridium data, assuming total vaporization and dissolution of osmium in seawater. The variations of 187Os/188Os and Os/Ir across the Late Eocene impact-event horizon support the main assumptions required to estimate the projectile diameter. Chondritic impacts as small as 2 kilometers in diameter should produce observable excursions in the marine osmium isotope record, suggesting that previously unrecognized impact events can be identified by this method.
Fibre Optic Reflection Photometry on Blood

A two photocell assembly has been used to measure the light reflection of blood conducted by fibre optics. Fibre optic reflection spectra of oxygenated and reduced blood samples show an isobestic region around 850 nm. Non-specific variations of the light reflection from a mirror do not affect the ratio of detecting and compensating photocell outputs, whereas the ratio is not independent of variations in blood flow and haemoglobin concentration. The relation of log R640/R800 and the oxygen saturation is linear. The relation of R900/R800 and indocyanine green dye concentration is linear up to 20 mg/l.
The Local Politics of Ethiopia's Green Revolution in South Wollo

This article argues that Ethiopia’s agricultural extension program, which received more government funding and donor support than other similar programs in Africa, reinforced the rural presence and authoritarian powers of the ruling party while largely failing to improve smallholder agriculture. The principal reason for this outcome has to do with the systematic entanglement of the Green Revolution package delivery system with the immediate goal of guaranteeing the party’s political security. In one Amharic-speaking community that provided ethno-graphic information for this article, overzealous party leaders rewarded supporters at the expense of imagined opponents. This distortion, coupled with a culturally embedded concept of success (defined as upward mobility), caused pervasive fear, insecurity, suspicion, and rivalry among farmers. Not surprisingly, this insecurity has a deleterious effect on hardworking farmers. The article suggests that any meaningful attempt at improving the program must recognize the centrality of politics, especially at the community and household levels, where parochial interests interface with cultural expectations. Cet article soutient que le programme d’extension agricole en Ethiopie, qui a recu plus de financement gouvernemental et de donations que d’autres programmes similaires en Afrique, a renforce la presence rurale et les pouvoirs autoritaires du parti en place tout en echouant sa mission d’amelioration de l’agriculture a petite echelle. Ce resultat est principalement du a l’imbroglio systematique du systeme de livraison mis en place par la Revolution Verte, ayant pour objectif immediat de garantir la securite politique du parti. Dans une communaute de langue amharique ayant fourni des donnees ethnographiques pour cet article, des chefs de parti trop zeles recompensaient leurs supporters au detriment d’opposants imaginaires. Cette distorsion en s’ajoutant au concept culturel de succes (defini comme la capacite de monter de grade) a engendre une peur envahissante ainsi que de l’insecurite, de la suspicion et de rivalite parmi les fermiers. Il n’est pas surprenant que cette insecurite ait eu des effets nefastes sur les fermiers deja durs a la tâche. Cet article suggere que toute tentative d’amelioration du programme devra reconnaitre la centralite du role que joue la scene politique, en particulier au niveau de la communaute et des menages, ou les interets de chaque groupe se heurtent aux attentes culturelles.
The Drift Factor in Biased Futures Index Trading Models: A New Look

The manner in which securities indices are constructed can introduce systematic bias that has found to be arbitrageable. Research has tried to provide structural correction factors, called drift factors, which serve to balance the index against an offsetting position in equivalent securities in a manner that prevents arbitrage. The drift factor, therefore, provides for a correctly priced index. The USDX Currency Futures Index, traded on the New York Board of Trade, has been corrected for geometric averaging and for the fact that it is expressed in European terms, i.e., foreign currency units per US$. Our research, however, provides evidence that the correction factors extant may not be adequate. We specify two new drift factors: an implied volatility factor and a naive delta factor. Testing each over the period 1995-1997, we found that the implied volatility factor does no better than existing drift factors. However, the naive delta, based on an adaptive expectations model, does provide a full correction for the USDX Currency Futures Index.
Occupancy of phase space, extensivity of Sq, and q-generalized central limit theorem

Abstract Increasing the number N of elements of a system typically makes the entropy to increase. The question arises on what particular entropic form we have in mind and how it increases with N . Thermodynamically speaking it makes sense to choose an entropy which increases linearly with N for large N , i.e., which is extensive. If the N elements are probabilistically independent (no interactions) or quasi-independent (e.g., short-range interacting), it is known that the entropy which is extensive is that of Boltzmann–Gibbs–Shannon, S BG ≡ - k ∑ i = 1 W p i ln p i . If they are, however, globally correlated (e.g., through long-range interactions), the answer depends on the particular nature of the correlations. There is a large class of correlations (in one way or another related to scale-invariance) for which an appropriate entropy is that on which nonextensive statistical mechanics is based, i.e., S q ≡ k ( 1 - ∑ i = 1 W p i q ) / q - 1 ( S 1 = S BG ), where q is determined by the specific correlations. We briefly review and illustrate these ideas through simple examples of occupation of phase space. A very similar scenario emerges with regard to the central limit theorem (CLT). If the variables that are being summed are independent (or quasi-independent, in the sense that they gradually become independent if N → ∞ ), two basic possibilities exist: if the variance of the random variables that are being composed is finite, the N → ∞ attractor in the space of distributions is a Gaussian, whereas if it diverges, it is a Levy distribution. If the variables that are being summed are however globally correlated, there is no reason to expect the usual CLTs to hold. The N → ∞ attractor is expected to depend on the nature of the correlations. That class of correlations (or part of it) that makes S q to be extensive for q ≠ 1 is expected to have a q e -Gaussian as its N → ∞ attractor, where q e depends on q [ q e ( q ) such that q e ( 1 ) = 1 ], and where q e -Gaussians are proportional to [ 1 - ( 1 - q e ) β x 2 ] 1 / ( 1 - q e ) ( β > 0 ; q e 3 ). We present some numerical indications along these lines. The full clarification of such a possible connection would have considerable interest: it would help qualifying the class of systems for which the nonextensive statistical concepts are applicable, and, concomitantly, it would enlighten the reason for which q -exponentials are ubiquitous in many natural and artificial systems.
Continuous front tracking with subcell resolution

The objective of this research is development of front tracking methods that possess subgrid resolution capability. One envisions here continuous tracking of the front, as opposed to discrete (one grid point to the next) tracking, such as is provided by the random choice method. A front tracking scheme employing near-front cells which continuously evolve with time is developed. This scheme is applied to the problem of tracking a material interface in the underwater explosion problem.
From D. Stern

The contrasting careers of Sydney Chapman and Hannes Alfven make an interesting story of genuine insights, false leads, bitter controversy and two very different approaches to the riddle of the magnetic storm. Unfortunately the recentEos article by S.-I.Akasofu [2003] blurs the picture, leaving readers to wonder what exactly did happen. Because of space limitations, this attempt to untangle the plot must be rather brief, but readers are urged to consult Stern [1989] (which cites the original articles), Alfven [1939 (1970)], Dessler [1984], and Smith [1963], none mentioned by Akasofu. Magnetic storms—so named by Alexander von Humboldt—were recognized in the 1830s as worldwide disturbances, thanks to the worldwide observatory network Humboldt helped establish. A magnetic disturbance implies an electric current somewhere, and the worldwide character suggested this current circulated around the Earth's equator. Adolph Schmidt in 1916 named it the ring current; it seemed to establish itself during magnetic storms, then decay within 1–5 days. In addition, large magnetic storms were accompanied by big displays of polar aurora, extending far equatorward from the auroral zone.
Source phase and amplitude anomalies of long‐period surface waves

In addition to the Fermat phase anomaly and the amplitude anomaly produced by geometric focusing and defocusing along the propagation path, long-period surface waves on a laterally heterogeneous earth exhibit phase and amplitude variations due to the deviation in takeoff azimuth of the ray at the source. The resulting perturbation in source phase is generally small enough to be ignored; however, the source amplitude anomaly may be comparable to that produced by focusing and defocusing. Adding the source anomaly significantly reduces the variance of amplitude measurements performed on a large suite of synthetic vertical-component coupled-mode seismograms. Future tomographic analyses that incorporate amplitude measurements should account for this effect.
Encountering others: reciprocal openings in participatory design and user-centered design

(1996). Encountering Others: Reciprocal Openings in Participatory Design and User-Centered Design. Human–Computer Interaction: Vol. 11, Current Perspectives on Participatory Design, pp. 285-290.
Measurement of spatial light modulator parameters

An investigation is made of means to the standardization of methods for parameter characterization in the cases of spatial light modulators of optically addressed, electrically addressed, amplitude-modulating, and phase-modulating types, with a view to recommendations for future practice. The speed, resolution, and visibility parameters are noted to compare well irrespective of modulator type; phase and amplitude modulating devices cannot be directly compared, however, due to the fundamentally different ways that parameters are measured for each. To be meaningful, the MTF for an optically-addressed device must be accompanied by speed and illumination data. Lifetimes should be specified for all devices.© (1990) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Efficient multiple and predicated dispatching

The speed of message dispatching is an important issue in the overall performance of object-oriented programs. We have developed an algorithm for constructing efficient dispatch functions that combines novel algorithms for efficient single dispatching, multiple dispatching, and predicate dispatching. Our algorithm first reduces methods written in the general predicate dispatching model (which generalizes single dispatching, multiple dispatching, predicate classes and classifiers, and pattern-matching) into ones written using a simpler multimethod dispatching model. Our algorithm then computes a strategy for implementing multiple dispatching in terms of sequences of single dispatches, representing the strategy as a lookup DAG. Finally, our algorithm computes an implementation strategy separately for each of the single dispatches, producing for each dispatch a dispatch tree, which is a binary decision tree blending class identity tests, class range tests, and table lookups. Our algorithm exploits any available static information (from type declarations or class analysis) to prune unreachable paths from the lookup DAG, and uses any available dynamic profile information to minimize the expected time to search the dispatch trees. We measure the effectiveness of our dispatching algorithms on a collection of large Cecil programs, compiled by the Vortex optimizing compiler, showing improvements of up to 30% over already heavily optimized baseline versions.
The interpretation of CO adsorbed on Pt/SiO2 of two different particle-size distributions

Abstract The infrared transmission spectra have been obtained for CO adsorbed on silica-supported platinum particles with two different particle-size distributions. The smaller has a mean measured diameter of 11 A; the larger, 39 A. The spectra have been interpreted by comparison with calculated spectra from CO adsorption on model particles. The differences in the infrared spectra for the different particle sizes are attributed to the relative number of surface atoms in the Pt particles with different coordination numbers.
Exploring the design space of proactive tool support for copy-and-paste programming

Programmers copy and paste code for various reasons, leaving similar code fragments (clones) in the software systems. As a result, they must spend effort and attention in tracking, understanding, and correctly adapting and evolving clones. Ideally, an integrated environment should be used to fully and seamlessly assist programmers in all these activities. Unlike clone-detection-based tools, such environments should support and manage clones proactively as clones are created and evolved. In this paper, an initial design space for such environments is sketched based on our experience with a prototype named CnP. The features and design decisions taken in CnP as well as remaining design problems are identified. To assess the potential of the developed features and identify new design input, code clones in several real-world systems are examined, and their implications on the design (and redesign) of proactive clone tools are discussed.
The Dap in the Military: Hand-to-Hand Communication.

I think the dap is an important part of my life because it is moving toward unity and understanding. —Private Victor Lucky, U.S. Marines (8, p. 27).
A light and electron microscopic study of the heart of a crayfish, Procambarus clarkii (Giraud). II. Fine structure

The adventitia of the crayfish heart is composed of cells that are separated from each other by an intercellular space about 280 A wide. Desmosomes are present on apposing surfaces of adjacent cells. A basal lamina underlies the adventitia and consists of a dense, amorphous substance that contains numerous fine filaments. The myocardial cells are striated and an external lamina 0.1 μ thick is present on the surface of the plasma membrane. The nuclei and most of the cytoplasm, glycogen and mitochondria are located at the cell periphery. The myofibrils are composed of thick and thin filaments and confined to the core of the cell. A T system and a well-developed SR are present. Elements of these organelles form dyads at levels that correspond to the H bands, and triads at levels that correspond to the Z bands of the peripheral myofibrils. The relationship of the T tubules to the myofibrils is discussed. Locus cells exhibit a unique pattern of intracellular myofibrillar branching. They branch from a region which has a structure similar to the Z band material. The myofibrils radiate outwardly in various directions and form numerous cellular branches which form intercalated discs with adjacent myocardial cells. These discs are more complex than those observed in poikilothermic vertebrates but are simpler than those in mammals. An endocardium is lacking in the crayfish heart but interstitial cells are present in close association with the myocardial cells and neural elements. Terminal nerve processes deeply embedded in the myocardial cells are described.
Palatability of Beef Skirt Steaks as Influenced by Grade/Maturity Group, Anatomical Location and Mechanical Tenderization

Beef inside and outside skirts (n = 120) obtained from 30 U.S. Choice carcasses and from 30 U.S. Utility cow carcasses were used in a study to evaluate anatomical location, grade/maturity group and method of mechanical tenderization on the palatability of cooked “fajita” beef. Ratings for juiciness, muscle fiber tenderness, overall tenderness, and overall palatability were higher (P < 0.05) for outside skirts than for inside skirts. Skirt steaks—inside and outside—from U.S. Choice carcasses were juicier, more tender overall, and more palatable overall than skirt steaks from U.S. Utility carcasses. Cubing, as a method of tenderization, was more useful for skirts from U.S. Utility carcasses than for skirt steaks from U.S. Choice carcasses.
Evidence for two immunologically distinct acetyl-CO-enzyme a synthetases in yeast

Evidence is presented that clearly establishes the presence of two acetyl-CoA synthetases in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, one elaborated under 'aerobic' conditions, the other under 'nonaerobic' conditions. The antibody produced by each enzyme is immunologically specific.
Music, Mathematics, and Microcomputers

In early Western medieval education, music was taught as one of the quadrivium, which comprised four of the seven liberal arts, in turn built upon an earlier Western classical tradition that produced the trivium. We re-examine music’s close relationship with the other elements of the quadrivium, and further establish links with elements of modern computing theory.