cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Monte Carlo Study of Genetic Groups in Sire Evaluation

Fixed genetic groups have been defined arbitrarily in linear models for sire evaluation. This simulation examined genetic groups under several selection strategies. Sires with highest estimated transmitting abilities were selected to have sons and additional female progeny. The process of evaluation and selection of sires and dams was continued for four generations. Final estimates of transmitting ability were compared to actual transmitting ability for several sire evaluation models on 300 simulated data sets. Genetic groups defined by generation increased the accuracy of estimating sire transmitting abilities over ignoring genetic groups when selected dams and sires of young bulls were mated. A joint selection model was presented which assists in interpreting results of simulation.
Cluster analysis and patterns of findings on cranial magnetic resonance imaging of the elderly: the Cardiovascular Health Study.

phy) and the other having prominent white matter changes and enlarged ventricles (leukoaraiosis). Factors that distinguished these clusters in a discriminant analysis were age, sex, several measures of hypertension, internal carotid artery wall thickness, smoking, and prevalent claudication before the MRI. The atrophy group had the highest percentage of men and the normal group had the lowest. Cognitive and motor performance also differed across clusters, with the atrophy cluster performing better than may have been expected. Conclusions: These MRI patterns identified participants with different vascular disease risk factors and clinical manifestations. Results of these exploratory analyses warrant consideration in other populations of elderly people. Such patterns may provide clues about the pathophysiology of structural brain changes in the elderly. Arch Neurol. 2001;58:635-640
Splitter: a proxy-based approach for post-migration testing of web applications

The benefits of virtualized IT environments, such as compute clouds, have drawn interested enterprises to migrate their applications onto new platforms to gain the advantages of reduced hardware and energy costs, increased flexibility and deployment speed, and reduced management complexity. However, the process of migrating a complex application takes a considerable amount of effort, particularly when performing post-migration testing to verify that the application still functions correctly in the target environment. The traditional approach of test case generation and execution can take weeks and synthetic test cases may not adequately reflect actual application usage.In this paper, we propose and evaluate a black-box approach for post-migration testing of Web applications without manually creating test cases. A Web proxy is put in front of the production application to intercept all requests from real users, and these requests are simultaneously sent to the production and migrated applications. Results generated by both applications are then compared, and mismatches due to migration problems can be easily detected and presented to testing teams for resolution. We implement this approach in Splitter, a software module that is deployed as a reverse Web proxy. Through our evaluation using a number of real applications, we show that it Splitter can effectively automate post-migration testing while also reduce the number of mismatches that must be manually inspected. Equally important, it imposes a relatively small performance overhead on the production environment.
A KYP Lemma for LMI Regions

In this technical note, a Kalman-Yakubovich-Popov (KYP) lemma is discussed for linear matrix inequality (LMI) regions. Sufficient quadratic stability conditions are developed for an uncertain linear system subject to time varying uncertainty satisfying a quadratic inequality. Furthermore, the quadratic stability conditions are shown to guarantee the satisfaction of a frequency domain inequality.
A Fast-Acting Stochastic Approach to Knock Control

Abstract Stochastic methods arguably offer a more theoretically appropriate approach to knock control than conventional deterministic strategies but are typically much slower in their transient response. Recently, however, a new stochastic controller was developed which responds very rapidly to knock rates above the specified target and which maintains tight regulatory control about the knock limit. The response to overly retarded conditions, however, is still relatively slow. In this paper the algorithm is refined in order to speed up the rate of recovery from retarded conditions while maintaining tight control and fast retard action. The performance of the new algorithm is compared to a conventional knock controller. The comparison demonstrates that the stochastic controller presented in this work is able to operate at a mean spark timing that is more advanced with much less cyclic variation about this mean. The transient response to excess knocking events can be as fast, or faster, than the conventional controller though this depends to some extent on the particular realization of the random knock process. The transient response to retarded conditions is still not quite as fast as the conventional controller, but is at least four times faster than that previously achieved. Overall, the results of this work suggest that the stochastic controller will deliver increased torque and engine efficiency under knock limited conditions compared to a conventional deterministic controller under the same conditions.
Salience and learning rate in concept identification

Learning rate parameter estimates were computed for the Bower and Trabasso (1964) concept identification model on the basis of a cue salience measure. The estimates were employed in the model to generate theoretical learning curves which were compared with curves obtained from two types of concept identification tasks.
Learning English with The Sims: exploiting authentic computer simulation games for L2 learning

With their realistic animation, complex scenarios and impressive interactivity, computer simulation games might be able to provide context-rich, cognitively engaging virtual environments for language learning. However, simulation games designed for L2 learners are in short supply. As an alternative, could games designed for the mass-market be enhanced with support materials to allow students to enter and make use of them for learning? This classroom-based investigation looked into whether the best selling game The SIMs™ could be rendered pedagogically beneficial to university-level ESL learners by means of supplementary materials designed to meet criteria for CALL task appropriateness. The mixed-methods study found statistically significant improvements in vocabulary knowledge, as well as a generally positive reaction to the modifications among users.
Plasma levels of immunoreactive atrial natriuretic factor in healthy subjects and in patients with edema.

Abstract Atrial natriuretic factor (ANF), a recently sequenced cardiac peptide, has been shown to have potent natriuretic, diuretic, and vasodilating effects in several species. We have developed a radioimmunoassay to measure the levels of immunoreactive ANF in human plasma. Plasma levels of ANF in healthy volunteers on a low sodium diet were 9.8 +/- 1.4 pmol/liter and increased to 21.9 +/- 3.0 on a high sodium diet. The levels of atrial natriuretic factor correlated directly with urinary sodium and inversely with plasma renin activity and plasma aldosterone levels. Patients with marked edema due to congestive heart failure had plasma levels of atrial natriuretic factor five times higher than normal (P less than 0.05), whereas patients with cirrhosis and edema had levels that were not different from normal. These results suggest that atrial natriuretic factor plays an important role in the adaptation to increased sodium intake.
Elastic strain energy of deformation twinning in tetragonal crystals

The aspect of elastic strain for a deformation twin with a pure shear strain is studied through Eshelby’s inclusion theory. Beta-Sn, TiO2, and TiAl of tetragonal structures are considered. As the aspect ratio of a twin approaches zero, its elastic strain energy vanishes since the stress components coupled with the twin shear strain vanish, suggesting that the twin habit plane cannot be determined solely from the shear strain energy viewpoint, for any twin mode would provide a vanishingly small strain energy for a thin twin. The application of Johnson and Cahn’s shape bifurcation theory predicts that the transition from a circular to an elliptic shape would occur when the linear dimension of a lenticular twin is only in the order of 10 nm, indicating that most twins with a substantial aspect ratio should be influenced by growth kinetics. Under an applied stress, the free energy change is found to depend strongly on the orientation and the sense of the applied stress. The extreme condition of the free energy change usually occurs when the resolved shear stress becomes extreme in the direction of the twin shear strain, thus following the relationship of Schmid’s law. The analysis of the matrix stress field immediately outside a twin plate shows a bimodal stress distribution around the lateral tip of the lenticular plate. The locations of stress concentrations depend on both the twin aspect ratio and the elastic anisotropy. As the twin aspect ratio approaches zero, however, the two exterior stress concentrations merge together at the lateral tip of the lenticular plate, yielding a maximum stress value in the order of μg, where μ andg are shear modulus and twin shear strain, respectively.
On learning and the economics of firm efficiency: a state-contingent approach

The paper investigates the microeconomics of learning for an owner-managed firm. The analysis relies on a general state-contingent approach to uncertainty. In the presence of price and production uncertainty, it examines the case where acquiring information is costly. It evaluates the microeconomic efficiency of decisions, with a focus on three factors: sure income, the value of information, and a risk premium (measuring the implicit cost of private risk bearing). The analysis stresses the role of information and learning in microeconomic decisions. Implications for efficiency and productivity measurements are discussed.
Identification and Biochemical Characterization of Unique Secretory Nucleases of the Human Enteric Pathogen, Entamoeba histolytica

The ancient eukaryotic human pathogen, Entamoeba histolytica, is a nucleo-base auxotroph (i.e. lacks the ability to synthesize purines or pyrimidines de novo) and therefore is totally dependent upon its host for the supply of these essential nutrients. In this study, we identified two unique 28-kDa, dithiothreitol-sensitive nucleases and showed that they are constitutively released/secreted by parasites during axenic culture. Using several different molecular approaches, we identified and characterized the structure of EhNucI and EhNucII, genes that encode ribonuclease T2 family proteins. Homologous episomal expression of epitope-tagged EhNucI and EhNucII chimeric constructs was used to define the functional and biochemical properties of these released/secreted enzymes. Results of coupled immunoprecipitation-enzyme activity analyses demonstrated that these "secretory" enzymes could hydrolyze a variety of synthetic polynucleotides, as well as the natural nucleic acid substrate RNA. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that sera from acutely infected amebiasis patients recognized and immunoprecipitated these parasite secretory enzymes. Based on these observations, we hypothesize that within its host, these secretory nucleases could function, at a distance away from the parasite, to harness (i.e. hydrolyze/access) host-derived nucleic acids to satisfy the essential purine and pyrimidine requirements of these organisms. Thus, these enzymes might play an important role in facilitating the survival, growth, and development of this important human pathogen.
The influence of controlled floods on fine sediment storage in debris fan-affected canyons of the Colorado River basin

Abstract Prior to the construction of large dams on the Green and Colorado Rivers, annual floods aggraded sandbars in lateral flow-recirculation eddies with fine sediment scoured from the bed and delivered from upstream. Flows greater than normal dam operations may be used to mimic this process in an attempt to increase time-averaged sandbar size. These controlled floods may rebuild sandbars, but sediment deficit conditions downstream from the dams restrict the frequency that controlled floods produce beneficial results. Here, we integrate complimentary, long-term monitoring data sets from the Colorado River in Marble and Grand Canyons downstream from Glen Canyon dam and the Green River in the Canyon of Lodore downstream from Flaming Gorge dam. Since the mid-1990s, several controlled floods have occurred in these canyon rivers. These controlled floods scour fine sediment from the bed and build sandbars in eddies, thus increasing channel relief. These changes are short-lived, however, as interflood dam operations erode sandbars within several months to years. Controlled flood response and interflood changes in bed elevation are more variable in Marble Canyon and Grand Canyon, likely reflecting more variable fine sediment supply and stronger transience in channel bed sediment storage. Despite these differences, neither system shows a trend in fine-sediment storage during the period in which controlled floods were monitored. These results demonstrate that controlled floods build eddy sandbars and increase channel relief for short interflood periods, and this response may be typical in other dam-influenced canyon rivers. The degree to which these features persist depends on the frequency of controlled floods, but careful consideration of sediment supply is necessary to avoid increasing the long-term sediment deficit.
New concepts of complement in allorecognition and graft rejection

In transplantation, activation of complement has largely been equated to antibody-mediated rejection, but complement is also important in recognition of apoptotic and necrotic cells as well as in modifying antigen presentation to T cells and B cells. As a part of the innate immune system, complement is one of the first responses to injury, and it can determine the direction and magnitude of the subsequent responses. Consequently, the effects of complement in allorecognition and graft rejection are increased when organs are procured from cadaver donors because these organs sustain a series of stresses from brain death, prolonged life support, ischemia and finally reperfusion that initiate proinflammatory processes and tissue injury. In addition, these organs are transplanted to patients, who frequently have been sensitized to histocompatibility antigens as the result of transfusions, pregnancies or transplants. Complement activation generates a series of biologically active effector molecules that can modulate graft rejection by directly binding to the graft or by modifying the response of macrophages, T and B cells of the recipient. However, complement is regulated and the process of regulation produces split products that can decrease as well as increase immune responses. Small animal models have been developed to test these variables. The guide for evaluating results from these models remains clinical findings because there are significant differences between the rodent and human complement systems.
Myoepithelial-specific CD44 shedding is mediated by a putative chymotrypsin-like sheddase.

Our previous studies have demonstrated that myoepithelial cells, which surround incipient carcinomas in situ of the breast and other organs, exert antiinvasive and antiangiogenic effects in vitro through the elaboration of a number of different suppressor molecules among which include the shed membrane CD44. The present study addresses the mechanism of this myoepithelial CD44 shedding. This CD44 shedding is enhanced by PMA pretreatment, is specific for myoepithelial CD44, and inhibited by chymotrypsin-like inhibitors (chymostatin, α1-antichymotrypsin, TPCK, and SCCA-2) but not by trypsin-like inhibitors (TLCK), nor papain-like inhibitors (SCCA-1) nor hydroxamate-based or general metalloproteinase inhibitors (BB2516 (marimastat), 1,10-phenanthroline, and TIMP-1). The effect of PMA can be mimicked by exogenous chymotrypsin but not by other proteases. The CD44 shedding activity cannot be transferred by conditioned media, cell–cell contact, peripheral membrane, or integral membrane fractions. However, cell-free purified integral plasma membrane fractions obtained from myoepithelial cells pretreated with PMA also exhibit CD44 shedding which is inhibited by chymotrypsin-like inhibitors. These findings support the presence and activation of a putative chymotrypsin-like sheddase as the mechanism of CD44 shedding in myoepithelial cells.
Chipped Stone Artefacts, Source Areas, and Provenance Studies of the Northern Belize Chert-bearing Zone

Previous studies of the Northern Belize chert-bearing zone, which was widely exploited by the ancient Maya for the production of chipped stone artefacts, have suggested that chert from different parts of this zone might be chemically distinct. This hypothesis is tested with an expanded data base of neutron activation analyses of raw chert and chalcedony from throughout northern Belize. These data together with data from previous studies indicate that the chert-bearing zone is one chemically homogenous source and that meaningful distinctions cannot be made between different areas of the zone. A more specific lithic source hypothesis is that the black chipped chert and chalcedony artefacts found at coastal Maya sites in Northern Belize may come from a localized source area exhibiting this unique visual characteristic. However, the analysis conclusively demonstrates that these artefacts fall within the range of chemical variation of other chert and chalcedony from Northern Belize. Further, the study yields convincing evidence that the colouration of these black lithic artefacts is caused by a weathering phenomenon and hence is not indicative of a particular source location.
Detection of numerical chromosomal abnormalities by fluorescence in situ hybridization of interphase cell nuclei with chromosome-specific probes on archival cytologic samples.

Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) is rapidly emerging as a tool for analyzing numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities in both liquid and solid tumors. Most studies make use of fresh samples. To determine the feasibility of detecting numerical chromosomal abnormalities (NCA) by FISH using chromosome-specific probes 8, 12, 17, and X (Vysis, Inc., Downers Grove, IL) on archival cytologic preparations, we studied 23 patient samples, one Papanicolaou- and one Diff-Quik-stained slide per case (46 slides), and two additional unstained slides (fresh ascitic fluids) as controls. Included in this study were nine ascitic fluids (four benign and five malignant), four malignant pleural fluids, three benign bladder washes, and seven malignant fine-needle aspirates (FNA) from various sites. The slides ranged from 1–94 days old. After removal of coverslips using xylene, all slides were destained in a series of alcohol and water washes. Pretreatment of slides with pepsin was followed by the in situ hybridization procedure. Two hundred cells per slide were evaluated for distinct separate signals. Results showed the following: 1) all slides were evaluable except for eight (8/46) which had either too few cells or enough cells but with faint signals, 2) the oldest sample showed distinct signals, 3) previously Diff-Quik-stained slides showed relatively better signals than Papanicolaou-stained slides, 4) samples less than a month old showed relatively better signals, and 5) malignant samples showed various NCA, but not the benign samples. We conclude that FISH on archival cytologic preparation 1) is feasible, although age of the slide is a factor since better signals were seen in those less than a month old, 2) shows better results in previously Diff-Quik-stained slides, and 3) is a tool that can be used in the retrospective study of various liquid and solid neoplasms. Diagn Cytopathol 1996;14:178–181. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Cenozoic marine sedimentation and ice-volume variation on the East Antarctic craton

Recycled Cretaceous and Cenozoic marine microfossils have been recovered from samples of the Pliocene Sinus Formation. Samples were collected from outcrops in the Reedy, Beardmore, and Ferrar glacier areas of the Transantarctic Mountains between lat 77° and 86°S. The glaciogene sediments contained diatoms, foraminifera, calcareous nannoplankton, silicoflagellates, radiolarians, sponge spicules, palynomorphs, and ostracodes of Late Cretaceous, Paleocene, Eocene, late Oligocene, late Miocene, and Pliocene age. This suggests the presence of open marine basins on the East Antarctic craton during late Mesozoic and Cenozoic time. The apparent absence of early Oligocene and early through middle and earliest late Miocene assemblages suggests either that marine regression exposed the basin floors or that ice filled the basins during these times. The high-elevation setting of Sirius Formation outcrops suggests one of two hypotheses for their origin: (1) They are in situ Pliocene glaciomarine deposits that were uplifted 1,750–2,500 m with the Transantarctic Mountains to their present elevation; (2) the Sirius Formation deposits are a mixture of derived sediments stripped from sub-ice intracratonic basins and subsequently redeposited by ice flowing up the inland slope of the Transantarctic Mountains. We favor the second hypothesis, with transport to sites sometime within the past 3 m.y.
FORMATION OF WHEY PROTEIN POLYMERS: EFFECTS OF A TWO‐STEP HEATING PROCESS ON RHEOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

Whey protein polymers were obtained by two-step heating of whey protein isolate (WPI) solutions with or without change of pH or protein concentration. Rheological properties of polymer solutions were studied. Viscosity of solutions heated then diluted was about 6 times higher than viscosity of equal concentration solutions heated directly. A second heating at a lower pH resulted in higher viscosity. Solutions were generally thixotropic and pseudoplastic; however, dilatant and rheopectic behavior was also observed. A 4% WPI solution could be converted to a polymer solution with a viscosity comparable to the viscosity of 1% carbohydrate hydrocolloids.
A new calculation of thermal neutron damage and helium production in nickel

Abstract It has long been recognized that thermal neutron irradiations of nickel-bearing materials generate high levels of helium from the sequential 58Ni(n,γ)59Ni(n, α)56Fe nuclear reactions. This process is used to simulate fusion reactor helium-to-displacement damage rates in stainless steel during fission reactor irradiations. However, it has not previously been recognized that the 56Fe recoils will also cause significant displacement damage. At thermal neutron energies the 340 keV 56Fe recoil event will displace 1762 atoms in nickel. The helium (appm)-to-displacement ratio from this process will be 567, a value that can be used to correct previous displacement calculations in nickel-bearing materials. This effect can nearly double the displacement damage in nickel in HFIR at high neutron fluences.
Monanchorin, a Bicyclic Alkaloid from the Sponge Monanchora ungiculata

Monanchorin, a guanidine alkaloid with an unusual bicyclic skeleton, together with the known pentacyclic alkaloid crambescidin acid have been isolated from the aqueous extract of the sponge Monanchora ungiculata.
Treatment of maxillary sinus cancer in the modern era: one institution’s experience

This study was conducted to report on outcomes and prognostic factors for maxillary sinus cancer treatment at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Records of 125 patients treated for maxillary sinus cancer between March 1987 and April 2012 were retrieved from our head and neck database. Patients were treated with either surgery plus postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) or definitive radiotherapy (RT). Patients with prior RT, distant metastases, melanoma, lymphoma, palliative treatment, or incomplete records were excluded. Survival outcomes were determined by the Kaplan-Meier method and prognostic factors evaluated by univariate analysis and log rank test. One hundred one patients met the inclusion criteria. Median length of follow-up was 86.7 months (range 2–264 months). Histology included squamous cell (61 %) and adenoid cystic carcinoma (15 %). There were 13 T1–T2, 21 T3, and 55 T4 patients. Thirteen had positive nodes at presentation, 83 nodes negative, and 7 unknown. Seventy-three were treated with surgery plus PORT and 28 with definitive RT. The 5-year local control (LC), incidence of distant metastasis (DM), and overall survival (OS) for the entire cohort were 56, 24, and 49 %, respectively. For surgery plus PORT, 5-year LC was 66 % and OS 64 %, and for definitive RT, 5-year LC was 21 % and OS 13 % (p < 0.001). The estimated 5-year OS for squamous cell and adenoid cystic histology was 55 and 73 %, respectively (p = 0.329). Nodal status was predictive of OS and adenoid cystic histology predictive of DM. Radionecrosis (one) and blindness (one) were reported late-term effects. Treatment outcomes for maxillary sinus cancer remain poor, although a combined therapeutic approach continues to provide the best survival and local recurrence outcomes. This suggests the need for further treatment escalation.
In the mood for entrepreneurial creativity? How optimal group affect differs for generating and selecting ideas for new ventures

Superior entrepreneurial creativity arises when teams are effective at both generating diverse alternatives and culling them to select the best solution. We develop theory about how the optimal group mood varies for the generation and selection stages of creativity. Using data from an entrepreneurial creativity task, we find that these stages require distinct collective moods. While an activated-pleasant mood promotes variance generation, idea selection requires a very different mood. Findings suggest that some teams fail to make transitions to the appropriate mood. We conclude by discussing implications for promoting entrepreneurial creativity. Copyright © 2011 Strategic Management Society.
Nonlocality without inequalities for almost all entangled states for two particles.

We provide a streamlined proof of Hardy's theorem, that almost every entangled state for a pair of quantum particles admits a ``proof of nonlocality'' without inequalities. Moreover, our analysis covers a larger class of observables. Thus we also strengthen Hardy's assertion that the argument fails for maximally entangled states, such as the singlet state. At the same time, we formulate the argument in such a manner that the relations which must be satisfied for local hidden variables are entirely deterministic, making no reference whatsoever to probability, let alone probablistic inequalities.
Momentum returns: market, seasonal and aging considerations

This paper examines the momentum returns from portfolios constructed using the NYSE-AMEX stocks. Following the methodology of Jegadeesh and Titman (1993), we form the momentum portfolio by going long on winners, defined as securities with returns in the top decile of previous six-month cumulative return, and short on losers, defined as securities with returns in the bottom decile of previous six-month cumulative return. Consistent with previous literature, we find that momentum portfolios earn significantly higher returns in the six-month period following the formation period. But, we also find that loser portfolios earn returns significantly greater than zero during this period. Further examination of the returns to the momentum portfolio during up and down markets and during each month of the year reveal a strong seasonality in these returns. Specifically, we find higher returns to winners occur primarily in down markets and a significant reversal in momentum returns in observed in the month of January. These empirical results support neither the under reaction nor the overreaction hypothesis. Further research is needed to examine the sources of these momentum returns.
Sequential changes of sensory neuron (fluoride-resistant) acid phosphatase in dorsal root ganglion neurons following neurectomy and rhizotomy.

Abstract Five to seven days after sciatic nerve section in rats, fluoride-resistant acid phosphatase (FRAP) expression in dorsal root ganglion (drg) neurons was markedly decreased. The decrease was in contrast to increased acid phosphatase which has been reported to occur in other neurons after nerve section. FRAP expression in ganglion neurons subsequently increased 14–21 days after nerve section; this preceded the restitution of enzyme expression in the spinal cord substantia gelatinosa. FRAP expression in drg neurons was not decreased after dorsal root section.
Comparison of fast-food and non-fast-food children's menu items.

Objective Compare the macronutrient content of children's meals sold by fast-food restaurants (FFR) and non-fast-food restaurants (NFF). Design All restaurants within the designated city limits were surveyed. Non-fast-food children's meals were purchased, weighed, and analyzed using nutrition software. All fast-food children's meals were recorded, with nutrient content information obtained from their respective commercial Web sites. Setting Community in southeastern United States. Participants 33 restaurants, 10 FFR and 23 NFF. Main Outcome Measure(s) Total weight, total calories, fat, saturated fat, protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. Analysis Paired t tests, 1-way analysis of variance, and general linear model analyses. Results Overall mean percentage of calories from fat for children's meals at FFR was 37.5%, and 40.5% at NFF. Significant differences (P < .01) existed between FFR and NFF, with FFR providing smaller servings, fewer calories, and less total fat, saturated fat, protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. When analyzing only with the highest calorie option side, controlling for portion size, no differences remained except saturated fat. Conclusions and Implications Fast-food restaurants offered smaller children's portion sizes and lower-fat options. These results have implications for restaurants, parents, children, and nutrition educators.
Solvent-Induced Frequency Shifts in the Infrared Spectrum of Dimethyl Sulfoxide in Organic Solvents

Solvent-induced frequency shifts in the infrared spectrum of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and deuterated dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO-d6) as dilute solutes have been studied in a wide variety of organic solvents. The results obtained show that intermolecular interactions affect vibrations of all the groups in the molecules of the solute, but in different ways and to different extents. The dipole related SO stretching mode in both DMSO and DMSO-d6 appears to be the most sensitive to the molecular environment. Bands corresponding to the νa(CSC) A‘‘ asymmetric stretch in DMSO and the r∥(CD3) A‘ rocking vibration in DMSO-d6 were also chosen as probe modes because they are more clearly observed in all the studied solutions. Complications in the spectrum of DMSO due to the strong overlaps of the bands were avoided by using DMSO-d6. The relative contributions of specific and nonspecific solvation effects were evaluated using a linear solvation energy relationship (LSER). Simple linear equations were obtained for evalua...
Calorie restriction is more effective for obesity treatment than dietary fat restriction.

Recent evidence suggests that dietary fat intake may be more strongly associated than total energy intake to the development and maintenance of obesity. The objective of this study was to determine whether dietary fat restriction would promote more favorable changes in body weight, body composition, resting metabolic rate (RMR), eating behavior, and dietary adherence than calorie restriction. Sixty-five obese women and 15 obese men were recruited and randomly assigned to calorie restriction (1000–1200 kcal/day) or fat restriction (22–26 g/day). Subjects participated in a 24-week behavioral weight loss program. Fortyeight subjects completed assessments at all four time points—baseline and 6, 12, and 18 months. Weight loss was significantly greater in the low calorie (LC) group (−11.2 versus −6.1 kg, p<.001) and was maintained better at the 18-month assessment (−7.5 versus −1.8kg, p≤.001). There was a significantly greater decrease in percent body fat and RMR for the LC group with only percent body fat still significantly lower at 18 months. Subjects in the LC group consumed significantly fewer calories, less carbohydrates, and the same amount of fat as those in the low fat (LF) condition, however, calorie and carbohydrate intake were decreasing for LF subjects by the 12- and 18-month assessments. There were no long-term differences in most measured predictors of dietary adherence. Dietary fat restriction did not prove to be superior to calorie restriction, thus strengthening the public health message that calories do count.
Infrasonic tracking of large bubble bursts and ash venting at Erebus Volcano, Antarctica

Abstract Explosive degassing at Erebus Volcano produces infrasound that can be used to locate, characterize, and quantify eruptive activity from multiple vents. We use a three element distributed microphone network to pinpoint eruption sources and track the activity at the prominent vents through time. Eruptive mechanisms for both source types are analyzed in conjunction with the telemetered time-synced video imagery. We identify two commonly active vents corresponding to the large (often > 10-m diameter) bubble bursts at the free surface of a persistent phonolitic lava lake (‘Ray Lake’), and the less frequent ash-rich eruptions from a constricted vent (‘Active Vent’) located ∼ 80 m from the lava lake. During a 3-month study interval from 6 January to 13 April 2006 we identified and mapped more than 350 eruptive sources from the lava lake and 20 sources from the ash vent. Lava lake events are characterized by high-amplitude infrasonic transients that reflect rapid (less than a few s) acceleration and rupture of magma bubble films followed by an explosion of pressurized gases. Precise infrasonic localization of the lava lake events to accuracies of a few m indicates variable bubble source locations across a 40 by 50-m region spanning the lava lake. Spatial variability is corroborated by the video data. In contrast, degassing from the ash vent produces longer-duration (tens of s), lower amplitude transients that reflect diminished impulsivity and an extended degassing duration, features that are corroborated by video. Because infrasound networks can operate continuously in all weather conditions and during both diurnal and seasonal polar darkness, and are easily incorporated into automatic processing, they significantly contribute to the completeness and quantification of eruption catalogues for Erebus.
Heat-capacity measurements and thermodynamic functions of crystalline sucrose at temperatures from 5 K to 342 K. Revised values for ΔfGom(sucrose, cr, 298.15 K), ΔfGom(sucrose, aq, 298.15 K), Som(sucrose, aq, 298.15 K); and ΔrGom(298.15 K) for the hydrolysis of aqueous sucrose

Abstract The heat capacity of crystalline sucrose has been measured at temperatures from 5 K to 342.15 K with an adiabatic calorimeter. Comparisons are made with previously reported values for the molar heat capacity C o p , m of crystalline sucrose; the agreement is generally within ±0.005 C o p , m . The molar heat capacity, entropy, and enthalpy, and values of (Φ o m +Δ T′ O H o m / T ) (where Φ o m =Δ T O S o m -Δ T O H o m / T and T′ = 298.15 K) are reported at round temperatures from 10 K to 340 K. Our value for the standard molar entropy: S o m (sucrose, cr, 298.15 K), is (392.4±0.5) J·K -1 ·mol -1 ; the only other value of this quantity in the literature is 360.4 J·K -1 ·mol -1 , and we have shown it to be in error. New values of S o m (sucrose, aq, 298.15 K), Δ f G o m (sucrose, cr, 298.15 K), Δ f G o m (sucrose, aq, 298.15 K), and Δ r G o m (298.15 K) for the hydrolysis of sucrose(aq) to glucose(aq) and fructose(aq), which are based on our value for the standard molar entropy of crystalline sucrose, are calculated and reported.
Homomorphism between SO(4,2) and SU(2,2)

By stereographically projecting the four coordinates which transform the hydrogen atom into a four-dimensional harmonic oscillator into a six-dimensional space, the homomorphism between SO(4,2) and SU(2,2) is explicitly demonstrated.
COMPLETE TRANSPOSITION OF GREAT VESSELS. MANIFESTATION IN TWO SIBLINGS CONFIRMED AT AUTOPSY.

A family has been studied wherein two siblings manifested complete transposition of the great vessels, confirmed at autopsy. Consanguinity was absent and no toxic exposure was found during the prenatal period in either case. All available family members were studied and found to be normal. Only one previous report of this cardiac anomaly in siblings has been found; however, there have been several reports showing complete transposition of the great vessels in one sibling, while another sibling manifested cardiac defects within the spectrum of truncoconal malformations. A genetic fault is postulated as the etiology of some truncoconal malformations, in which a gene effect during embryogenesis, in concert with the intrauterine milieu, produces various anomalies.
Glucagon-like peptide-1 does not mediate amylase release from AR42J cells.

In this study, AR42J pancreatic acinar cells were used to investigate if glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) or glucagon might influence amylase release and acinar cell function. We first confirmed the presence of GLP-1 receptors on AR42J cells by reverse trasncriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blotting, and partial sequencing analysis. While cholecystokinin (CCK) increased amylase release from AR42J cells, GLP-1, alone or in the presence of CCK, had no effect on amylase release but both CCK and GLP-1 increased intracellular calcium. Similar to GLP-1, glucagon increased both cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) and intracellular calcium in AR42J cells but it actually decreased CCK-mediated amylase release (n = 20, P < 0.01). CCK stimulation resulted in an increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of several cellular proteins, unlike GLP-1 treatment, where no such increased phosphorylation was seen. Instead, GLP-1 decreased such protein phosphorylations. Genestein blocked CCK-induced phosphorylation events and amylase secretion while vanadate increased amylase secretion. These results provide evidence that tyrosine phosphorylation is necessary for amylase release and that signaling through GLP-1 receptors does not mediate amylase release in AR42J cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 181:470–478, 1999. Published 1999 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Contract teachers in India

In this paper the author use non-experimental data from government schools in Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, two of the largest Indian states, to present average school outcomes by contract status of teachers. The author fined that contract teachers are associated with higher effort than civil service teachers with permanent tenures, before as well as after controlling for school fixed effects. And higher teacher effort is associated with better student performance after controlling for other school inputs and student characteristics. Given that salaries earned by contract teachers are one fourth or less of civil service teachers, contract teachers may be a more cost-effective resource. However, contracts 'as they are' appear weak. Not only do contract teachers have fairly low average effort in absolute terms, but those who have been on the job for at least one full tenure have lower effort than others who are in the first contract period.
Melanoma-associated antigen recognized by T cells (MART-1): the advent of a preferred immunocytochemical antibody for the diagnosis of metastatic malignant melanoma with fine-needle aspiration.

BACKGROUND HMB-45, an antibody directed against a premelanosome glycoprotein, has thus far been considered the most specific antibody for the immunocytochemical substantiation of the diagnosis of malignant melanoma (MM). A recently described antigen, MART-1, is a transmembrane protein that is present in normal melanocytes and widely expressed in MM. Antibodies to MART-1 have recently become commercially available. Both HMB-45 and MART-1 form the basis of ongoing immunotherapy protocols at the National Institutes of Health/National Cancer Institute. METHODS The authors evaluated 207 lesions from 160 patients with metastatic MM procured via fine-needle aspiration (FNA) for expression of MART-1 (clone M2-7C10) and HMB-45 prior to commencement of immunotherapy. FNAs were performed on subcutaneous soft tissue masses (190 lesions), lung (8 lesions), liver (5 lesions), pancreas (3 lesions), and brain (1 lesion). To test the specificity of the monoclonal antibody directed against MART-1, the authors evaluated its reactivity in normal tissues as well as in various nonpigmented neoplasms that are often included in the differential diagnosis of MM. RESULTS Of all lesions tested, 13 (6%) were negative for both MART-1 and HMB-45. Of all patients tested, 20% had 1 or more lesions that were non-immunoreactive with HMB-45, whereas only 10% had 1 or more lesions that were nonimmunoreactive for MART-1. Eight percent of the lesions tested were negative for MART-1 only, whereas 16% of lesions tested were negative for HMB-45 only. In 35% of the lesions, MART-1 stained more cells than HMB-45. In 13%, MART-1 stained fewer cells than HMB-45, and in 52% both antibodies stained an equivalent number of cells. All samples of normal tissue were negative for staining with MART-1, as were the nonpigmented lesions tested. Melanocytes in normal skin samples stained positively for MART-1. CONCLUSIONS The MART-1 antibody is a superior immunohistochemical marker for the diagnosis of MM. It has the potential to become the preferred antibody over HMB-45 for the diagnosis of metastatic MM in FNA material, as MART-1 stains a higher percentage of lesions in a higher percentage of patients than does HMB-45. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 1999;87:37–42. © 1999 American Cancer Society.
Granulocyte functions during maturation of human promyelocytic leukemia cells

Abstract Human promyelocytic leukemia cells (HL-60) mature into functional granulocytes in response to in vitro treatment with several classes of chemical agents. Compounds that increase intracellular adenosine 3′:5′-cyclic monophosphate induce a modified program of maturation in which the cells demonstrate functional properties characteristic of mature phagocytic cells while remaining morphologically immature. We compared the developmental programs initiated by two well-studied inducers, retinoic acid and dimethyl sulfoxide, with the programs initiated by two inducers known to raise intracellular adenosine 3′:5′-cyclic monophosphate; N 6 , O 2 -dibutyryl adenosine 3′:5′-cyclic monophosphate and the combination of prostaglandin E 2 and theophylline. In response to the increase in intracellular adenosine 3′:5′-cyclic monophosphate, the cells ceased proliferation, expressed chemotactic receptors and demonstrated stimulated enzyme release within 24 h. Chemotaxis, adherence, NBT reduction and superoxide production appeared by 72 h, although the cells remained unchanged morphologically. A similar developmental program was induced by dimethylsulfoxide, but appearance of the markers was delayed by 48 h. Expression of these markers was delayed and incomplete in response to retinoic acid.
Maximizing the Value of 360-Degree Feedback

The article reviews the book “Maximizing the Value of 360-Degree Feedback,” by Walter W. Tornow and Manuel London.
ASME Material Challenges for Advance Reactor Concepts

This study presents the material challenges associated with Advanced Reactor Concepts (ARC) such as the Advanced High Temperature Reactor (AHTR). ARCs are the next generation concepts focusing on power production and providing thermal energy for industrial applications. The efficient transfer of energy for industrial applications depends on the ability to incorporate cost-effective heat exchangers between the nuclear heat transport system and industrial process heat transport system.The heat exchanger required for AHTR is subjected to a unique set of conditions that introduce several design challenges not encountered in standard heat exchangers. The corrosive molten salts, especially at higher temperatures, require materials throughout the system to avoid corrosion, and adverse high-temperature effects, such as creep. Given the very high steam generator pressure of the supercritical steam cycle, it is anticipated that water tube and molten salt shell steam generators heat exchanger will be used.In this paper, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Section III and Section VIII requirements (acceptance criteria) are discussed. Also, the ASME material acceptance criteria (ASME Section II, Part D) for high temperature environments are presented. Finally, lack of ASME acceptance criteria for thermal design and analysis are discussed with potential benefit.Copyright © 2013 by ASME
Field transplants reveal summer constraints on a butterfly range expansion

The geographic ranges of most species are expected to shift to higher elevations and latitudes in response to global warming. But species react to specific environmental changes in individualistic ways, and we are far from a detailed understanding of range-shifts. Summer temperature often limits the ranges of insects and plants, so many range-shifts are expected to track summer warming. I explore this potential range-limiting factor in a case study of a northwardly expanding American butterfly, Atalopedes campestris (Lepidoptera, Hesperiidae). This species has recently colonized the Pacific Northwest, USA, where the mean annual temperature has risen 0.8–1.8°C over the past 100 years. Using field transplant experiments across the current range edge, I measured development time, survivorship, fecundity and predation rates along a naturally occurring thermal gradient of 3°C. Development time was significantly slower outside the current range in eastern Washington (WA), as expected because of cooler temperatures there. Slower development would reduce the number of generations possible per year outside the current range, dramatically lowering the probability that a population could survive there. Differences in survivorship, fecundity and predation rate across the range edge were not significant. The interaction between summer and winter temperature appears to be crucial in defining the current range limit. The estimated difference in temperature required to affect the number of generations is greater than the extent of summer warming observed over the past century, however, and thus historically winter temperature alone probably limited the range in southeastern WA. Nonetheless, extraordinarily warm summers may have improved colonization success, increasing the probability of a range expansion. These results suggest that extreme climatic events may influence rates of response to long-term climate change. They also demonstrate that range-limiting factors can change over time, and that the asymmetry in seasonal warming trends will have biological consequences.