cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
À la recherche d’un emploi. Business French in a Communicative Context by HUBBELL, AMY L

A review is presented for the book "A la recherche d'un emploi: Business French in a Communicative Context," by Amy L. Hubbell.
Exploring Optimized Configurations of Plasmonic Nanoparticles

ABSTRACT Finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulations are used to find the electric field intensity at the center of a cluster of plasmonic nanoparticles irradiated by a planewave source. We use an iterativ e optimization algorithm to maximize the electric field intensity. The resulting optimized configurations are found to be non-symmetric and non-intuitive, and cannot be obtained by analyti cal calculation methods. Experimentally, we i nvestigate a novel technique using angle evaporation to produce plasmonic nanostruct ures with gap sizes of 1-2 nm. We ev aluate the plasmonic activity of these nanoparticles both experimentally using surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) measurements and theoretically using FDTD simulations. These simulations predict an electric field intensity enhancement of 82,400 at the center of the nanoparticle dimer, and an electromagnetic SERS enhancement factor of 10 9 -10 10 . Keywords: Electromagnetic fields, finite diffe rence time-domain, FDTD, SERS, na noparticles, optimization, surface plasmon resonance
Improving Food Frequency Questionnaires: A Qualitative Approach Using Cognitive Interviewing

Abstract In an attempt to improve data quality and ease of administration of standard self-administered food frequency questionnaires, various alternative approaches were tried for inquiring about frequency of consumption, portion size, seasonal intake, and food preparation. Evaluation consisted of a cognitive interviewing method in which respondents verbalize their thought process while completing several variations of a questionnaire. Interviewers observed and asked follow-up probe questions to evaluate problems or inconsistencies verbalized by respondents. Consensus and judgment by interviewers and observers suggested several problematic features of food frequency questionnaires: formatting of questions about frequency and portion size; computing average frequencies for aggregated food items or for foods eaten seasonally; comprehension of many items; and ordering of foods. These findings led to cognitive refinement and innovations, which included detailed questions regarding preparation or use of low-fat varieties or other alternatives to help better describe specifics of intake for some foods; questions on seasonal intake for several foods; inclusion of portion size ranges; and additional response categories for frequency of intake. Cognitive interviewing is an important step in pinpointing cognitive problems in dietary questionnaires. J Am Diet Assoc. 1995; 95:781-788.
Structures of large fullerenes: C60 to C94

Abstract A systematic study of the structures of large carbon fullerenes ranging from C 60 to C 94 is performed. We first generate the topological networks for candidate structures using an efficient cage network generation scheme. The resultant networks were relaxed with tight-binding molecular dynamics to obtain the ground-state structures for various low-energy isomers. Unlike the buckminsterfullerene C 60 , the large carbon fullerenes prefer structures with low symmetry and several isomers can be very close in energy and may coexist in synthesis.
Water-soluble organosulfur compounds of garlic inhibit fatty acid and triglyceride syntheses in cultured rat hepatocytes.

The putative hypolipidemic effect of garlic remains controversial. To gain further insight into the effect of garlic on lipid metabolism, the present study determined the inhibitory effects of water-soluble organosulfur compounds present in garlic on triglyceride (TG) and fatty acid synthesis in cultured rat hepatocytes. When incubated at 0.05 to 4.0 mmol/L with cultured hepatocytes, S-allyl cysteine (SAC) and S-propyl cysteine (SPC) decreased [2-14C]acetate incorporation into triglyceride in a concentration-dependent fashion achieving a maximal inhibition at 4.0 mmol/L of 43 and 51%, respectively. The rate of [2-14C]acetate incorporation into phosphlipids was depressed to a similar extent by SAC and SPC. SPC, SAC, S-ethyl cysteine (SEC), and γ-glutamyl-S-methyl cysteine decreased [2-14C]acetate incorporation into fatty acid synthesis by 81, 59, 35, and 40%, respectively, at 2.0–4.0 mmol/L concentrations. Alliin, γ-glutamyl-S-allyl cysteine, γ-glutamyl-S-propyl cysteine S-allyl-N-acetyl cysteine, S-allylsulfonyl alanine, and S-methyl cysteine had no effect on fatty acid synthesis. The activities of lipogenic enzymes, fatty acid synthase (FAS), and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) were measured in cultured hepatocytes treated with the inhibitors. The activity of FAS in cells treated with 4.0 mmol/L SAC and SPC, respectively, was 32 and 27% lower than that of non-treated cells. Neither SAC nor SPC affected G6PDH activity. The results indicate that SAC, SEC, and SPC inhibit lipid biosynthesis in cultured rat hepatocytes, and further suggest that these S-alk(en)yl cysteines of garlic impair triglyceride synthesis in part due to decreased de novo fatty acid synthesis resulting from inhibition on FAS. Whether tissue concentrations of active garlic components can achieve levels required to inhibit TG synthesis in vivo warrants further investigation.
Global strategic business decisions: a comparative study of domestic and international outsourcing

Today, the fundamental changes that are taking place across US industry, such as lowered prospects for growth, expanding technology, and increased foreign competitions, are making alliances a viable option for many corporations. The focus of this exploratory study is to examine firms’ decisions to use foreign outsourcing vis-a-vis domestic outsourcing. One goal of this study is to examine the interaction between an organisational factor (i.e., firm size) and the business outsourcing and strategic alliance decisions. Another research aim is to ascertain what type(s) of global sourcing is sought by the participating business organisations, along with the decision to select its international subsidiary for a partnership over an alternate option(s) as a source(s) of supplies. In addition, the study evaluates the relationship between a determinant personal factor (i.e., number of years on the job) and the strategic business alliances/outsourcing decisions. This study’s results are discussed with their managerial implications, and the study’s findings are relevant to practitioners and academicians at the national and international levels.
Transcutaneous Drug Delivery: A Practical Review

Objective To describe the advantages, disadvantages, practical considerations, and future developments of transcutaneous drug delivery. Material and Methods The physiochemical properties of the drug preparation that are factors in the effectiveness of transcutaneous transport are drug stability or volatility, use of a solvent carrier or vehicle, use of a penetration enhancer, and type of delivery device. Because a drug should remain on the skin without evaporating or becoming otherwise inactive, it is suspended in a vehicle-any gel, lotion, or paste used to apply the drug to the skin. Penetration enhancers include several compounds that are mixed into vehicles to alter the molecular environment of the epidermis and facilitate absorption. The delivery system itself occasionally proves to be the ultimate determinant of transdermal drug flow. Results The advantages of transcutaneous drug delivery are avoidance of the gastrointestinal tract and hepatic first-pass biotransformation and metabolism, control of absorption, availability of multiple skin sites to avoid local irritation and toxicity, and improved patient compliance. The disadvantages include the potential for localized irritant and allergic cutaneous reactions, systemic toxicity, and difficulties associated with the time necessary for a drug to diffuse through the skin. Conclusion Transdermal drug regimens are safe and effective. They provide clinicians the opportunity to offer more therapeutic options to their patients to optimize their care.
Superparasitism ofEpilachna varivestis [Col.: Coccinellidae] byPediobus foveolatus [Hym.: Eulophidae]: Influence of temperature and parasitoid-host ratio

Superparasitism ofEpilachna varivestisMulsant larvae by the hymenopterous parasitoid,Pediobius foveolatus (Crawford), occurred under laboratory conditions. However,P. foveolatus avoided previously parasitized larvae in a manner which was directly related to the number of times host larvae were initially parasitized. Increasing the parasitoid-host ratio also increased percent host mortality and highest overall host mortality occurred at 15.6°C when the parasitoid-host ratio was 10∶10. Higher temperatures (22° and 28°C) and higher parasitoid-host ratios yielded higher numbers of parasitized larvae although a significant number of parasitoids failed to emerge at the highest parasitoid-host ratio. Higher temperatures along with increasing parasitoid-host ratios favored production of more male parasitoids.
The Electrophysiologic Effects of Lidocaine in Patients with Intraventricular Conduction Defects

A 6 mg/kg lidocaine infusion was administered (over 22 min) to 10 patients with the electrocardiographic findings of bundle branch block. His bundle electrograms, heart rate, blood pressure, and plasma lidocaine levels were obtained before, every 5 min during, and for 20 min after the infusion was terminated. Control atrioventricular nodal conduction time (AH) was prolonged in two patients (130-175 msec) and infranodal conduction time was abnormally prolonged in four (60-100 msec). Therapeutic lidocaine levels were achieved in all patients and peak levels ranged from 3.3-11.0 µg/ml. No significant changes in mean heart rate, blood pressure, AH, His-Purkinje conduction time, or QRS duration were noted between control values and during or after the lidocaine infusion. Toxic central nervous system side effects including somnolence, dysarthria, and euphoria were noted in five subjects. Therapeutic levels of lidocaine were effective in the eradication of premature ventricular beats and safe in the sense that no higher degrees of atrioventricular or intraventricular conduction block were found; however, mild symptoms of central nervous system toxicity were commonly observed.
Some Studies In Solid Matrices And Facile Micellar Luminescence

A study was performed to show the effect of heavy atoms, matrices and a filler on the solid matrix room temperature luminescence of fluorescamine derivatized amino acids and drugs. Fluorescamine derivatized p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), phenylpropanolamine hydrochloride (PPA) and alanine were used as model compounds for this study. Heavy atom species exhibited the following descending _order _of luminescence enhancement for the fluorescamine derivatized products: I > Br > Cl . The derivatized PABA showed more enhancement from heavy atoms than derivatized PPA or alanine. Derivatized PPA and alanine experienced equivalent heavy atom enhancement. Quenching was observed when AgNO, was used as the heavy atom for the phosphorescence measurement of fluorescamine derivatized products. Filler effects were observed by the addition of sodium acetate (NaAc) onto the solid matrices. Luminescence signals increased with increasing concentration of the filler. Matrices were observed to enhance the luminescence signal in the descending order of DE-81 > S&S 903 > P-81. It was found that the pH of a facile micellar solution enhanced the phosphorescence signal and decreased the rise time of a phosphor, such as biphenyl, naphthalene and pyrene. Attempts were being made to study the pH effect on the luminescence of aromatic acids. Compounds, 1- and 2-naphthoic acids were used for such a study. The effect of changes in pH of water and 0.05 M SLS solutions on fluorescence characteristics has been obtained for both acids. A weak phosphorescence signal of 2-naphthoic acid has been observed under certain conditions which needs further study. The pH of the solution, nonetheless, was found to drastically affect the fluorescence of 2-naphthoic acid.
Juvenile hormone esterases in diapause and nondiapause larvae of the European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis

Abstract Haemolymph levels of juvenile hormone esterase, 1-naphthyl acetate esterase, and juvenile hormone were measured in synchronously staged diapause and nondiapause larvae of the European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis . Juvenile hormone esterase levels were monitored using juvenile hormone I as a substrate while juvenile hormone titres were measured with the Galleria bioassay. Haemolymph of nondiapause larvae showed two peaks of juvenile hormone hydrolytic activity: one near the end of the feeding phase and a smaller one just prior to pupal ecdysis. These peaks of enzyme activity correlated well with the low levels of haemolymph juvenile hormone. Juvenile hormone titres were high early in the stadium then showed a second peak during the prepupal stage coinciding with low esterase activity. Diapause haemolymph had peak juvenile hormone esterase activity nearly 4 times the nondiapause level, reaching a peak near the end of the feeding phase. Diapause-destined larvae retained high juvenile hormone titres even during the rise of the high esterase levels. 1-naphthyl acetate esterase levels did not correlate with the juvenile hormone esterase levels in either the diapause or nondiapause haemolymph. High levels of 1-naphthyl acetate esterase activity were associated with moulting periods.
Presynaptic Gating of Postsynaptic Synaptic Plasticity: A Plasticity Filter in the Adult Auditory Cortex

Sensory cortices can not only detect and analyze incoming sensory information but can also undergo plastic changes while learning behaviorally important sensory cues. This experience-dependent cortical plasticity is essential for shaping and modifying neuronal circuits to perform computations of multiple, previously unknown sensations, the adaptive process that is believed to underlie perceptual learning. Intensive efforts to identify the mechanisms of cortical plasticity have provided several important clues; however, the exact cellular sites and mechanisms within the intricate neuronal networks that underlie cortical plasticity have yet to be elucidated. In this review, we present several parallels between cortical plasticity in the auditory cortex and recently discovered mechanisms of synaptic plasticity gating at thalamocortical projections that provide the main input to sensory cortices. Striking similarities between the features and mechanisms of thalamocortical synaptic plasticity and those of experience-dependent cortical plasticity in the auditory cortex, especially in terms of regulation of an early critical period, point to thalamocortical projections as an important locus of plasticity in sensory cortices.
Caloric restriction and aging in primates: Relevance to humans and possible CR mimetics.

For nearly 70 years it has been recognized that reduction in caloric intake by 30-40% from ad libitum levels leads to a significant extension of mean and maximal lifespan in a variety of short-lived species. This effect of caloric restriction (CR) on lifespan has been reported in nearly all species tested and has been reproduced hundreds of times under a variety of different laboratory conditions. In addition to prolonging lifespan, CR also prevents or delays the onset of age-related disease and maintains many physiological functions at more youthful levels. Studies in longer-lived species, specifically rhesus and squirrel monkeys, have been underway since the late 1980s. The studies in nonhuman primates are beginning to yield valuable information suggesting that the effect of CR on aging is universal across species and that this nutritional paradigm will have similar effects in humans. Even if CR can be shown to impact upon human aging, it is unlikely that most people will be able to maintain the strict dietary control required for this regimen. Thus, elucidation of the biological mechanisms of CR and development of alternative strategies to yield similar benefits is of primary importance. CR mimetics, or interventions that "mimic" certain protective effects of CR, may represent one such alternative strategy.
Symmetry-adapted integrals over many-electron basis functions and operators

We consider integrals over symmetry-adapted basis functions that involve the coordinates of more than one electron. We focus on basis functions that can be written as products of one-electron functions and (say) a two-electron function. We show first that the two-electron parts of the basis functions can be absorbed into the operator, resulting in an integral over only one-electron basis functions, but a more complicated many-electron operator. We then prove a general formula for expressing such integrals in terms of symmetry-distinct integrals only.
The production of diazotizable amines by a simple degradative reaction of purines.

Abstract A simple method of degrading purines is described. Following such treatment the purines hypoxanthine, xanthine, and isoguanine, in addition to adenine, gave characteristic dyes upon diazotization and coupling. Studies are reported on the degradation of hypoxanthine by the use of this method. The responsible diazotizable components from this purine are identified as 4-amino-5-imidazolecarboxamide and a closely related non-acetylatable amine.
Differences in heterocycle basicity distinguish homocysteine from cysteine using aldehyde-bearing fluorophores

We report the detection of homocysteine over cysteine based upon characteristic differences between 5- and 6-membered heterocyclic amines formed upon reaction with aldehyde-bearing compounds. Homocysteine-derived thiazinane-4-carboxylic acids are more basic than cysteine-derived thiazolidines-4-carboxylic acids. Fluorescence enhancement in response to homocysteine is achieved by tuning pH and excitation wavelength.
The utility of transient sensitivity for wildlife management and conservation: Bison as a case study

Developing effective management strategies is essential to conservation biology. Population models and sensitivity analyses on model parameters have provided a means to quantitatively compare different management strategies, allowing managers to objectively assess the resulting impacts. Inference from traditional sensitivity analyses (i.e., eigenvalue sensitivity methods) is only valid for a population at its stable age distribution, while more recent methods have relaxed this assumption and instead focused on transient population dynamics. However, very few case studies, especially in long-lived vertebrates where transient dynamics are potentially most relevant, have applied these transient sensitivity methods and compared them to eigenvalue sensitivity methods. We use bison (Bison bison) at Badlands National Park as a case study to demonstrate the benefits of transient methods in a practical management scenario involving culling strategies. Using an age and stage-structured population model that incorporates culling decisions, we find that culling strategies over short time-scales (e.g., 1–5 years) are driven largely by the standing population distribution. However, over longer time-scales (e.g., 25 years), culling strategies are governed by reproductive output. In addition, after 25 years, the strategies predicted by transient methods qualitatively coincide with those predicted by traditional eigenvalue sensitivity. Thus, transient sensitivity analyses provide managers with information over multiple time-scales in contrast to the long time-scales associated with eigenvalue sensitivity analyses. This flexibility is ideal for adaptive management schemes and allows managers to balance short-term goals with long-term viability.
Fluoro- and difluoro-vinylidenes and their rearrangements to acetylenes

Abstract The 1,2-hydrogen or fluorine shifts connecting vinylidene, fluorovinylidene and difluorovinylidene to the corresponding acetylenes have been examined by means of ab initio 4-31G SCF calculations. The effects of zero point energy corrections, polarization functions and configuration interaction on the barrier heights and reaction energies were considered 1.2-hydrogen shifts are predicted to be very facile and 1.2-fluorine shifts difficult in agreement with experiment.
Stress-produced analgesia and morphine-produced analgesia: Lack of cross-tolerance

Animals exposed to cold-water swims, rotation, inescapable shocks, abrupt food deprivation and other stressors display temporary analgesia. Since repeated exposures result in adaptation of this analgesia in much the same way that repeated administration of opiates results in tolerance, the possibility of cross-tolerance between cold-water stress-induced and morphine-induced analgesia was investigated. Flinch-jump thresholds were determined in ten experimental groups of six rats each. Three groups showed dose-dependent analgesia following single injections of morphine at 5, 10 and 15 mg/kg, respectively. A fourth group, subjected to a single cold-water swim at 2 degrees C for 3.5 min, displayed analgesia comparable to that produced by 10 mg/kg of morphine. Groups subjected either to 14 daily cold-water swims or to 14 daily morphine injections at 10 mg/kg showed normal thresholds on the 14th day indicating that adaptation and tolerance had developed, respectively. The cross-over groups were exposed to either 13 days of could-water swims followed by morphine or the reverse arrangement. Both groups showed profound analgesia instead of cross-tolerance, suggesting that a non-opiate neural mechanism may mediate stress-induced analgesia.
Development and Validation of the Conceptions of Scientific Theories Test.

The purpose of this study was to develop a reliable and valid instrument for use with elementary and secondary teachers of science that would have the following characteristics: 1) sensitivity to alternative conceptions of particular philosophic aspects of scientific theories, and 2) applicability in inferring understanding of the tentative and revisionary conception of the nature of science. This conception, which has educational and social importance, may be a significant influence in the teaching of science as inquiry. Thus, concern with teachers' conceptions of the nature of science and their teaching served as justification for this study. The instrument, which was applied to samples of preservice elementary teachers, college philosophy of science students, and college chemistry students, consisted of items that were adapted to the contexts of particular scientific theories by prefacing them with a brief description of a theory and episodes drawn from its history. Items were written to discriminate between alternative conceptions of the following philosophic aspects of scientific theories: testing, generation, ontological implications, and choice. Evidence in support of the validity of the instrument constructs was obtained using two approaches: discrimination between contrasting groups and the multi-trait and multi-method matrix of Campbell and Fiske. Cronbach alpha reliability coefficients and standard errors of measurement were computed for the instrument and its subtests. Reliability data indicates that an adequate degree of accuracy may be attributed to instrument scores.
Subsequent Yield Surfaces for Annealed Mild Steel Under Servo-Controlled Strain and Load Histories: Aging, Normality, Convexity, Corners, Bauschinger and Cross Effects

Initial-yield results on SAE 1017 steel are presented for: four different specimens under combined axial load and twisting moment for servo-controlled loading; and six different specimens under various combinations of servo-controlled axial strain and shear strain. Subsequent yield curves determined by small strain offset multiple probes on a given specimen are presented covering all four quadrants of axial stress-shear stress space. The resulting families of subsequent yield curves allows conclusions to be drawn concerning the effects of plastic strain and strain aging. All curves were found to be convex and normality of the plastic strain increment vector was obeyed. The response to plastic straining allowed discussion of corner formation, translation, rotation, Bauschinger and cross effects of subsequent yield curves and formation of a limit curve.
An embeddedness framing of governance and opportunism: towards a cross‐nationally accommodating theory of agency—critique and extension

Research on corporate governance has been increased in recent years, reflecting growing concern about the future of global capitalism. Much of this research has been under socialized. Lubatkin and colleagues attempt to address this serious shortcomings of past research. While making an important and informative contribution to research, I believe these authors overlook the questionable assumptions of agency models of governance. Lubatkin and colleagues also key issues resulting from the internationalization of corporate governance. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulation of PKCα activity by C1 C2 domain interactions

In this study, the role of interdomain interactions involving the C1 and C2 domains in the mechanism of activation of PKC was investigated. Using an in vitro assay containing only purified recombinant proteins and the phorbol ester, 4 beta-12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), but lacking lipids, it was found that PKC alpha bound specifically, and with high affinity, to a alpha C1A-C1B fusion protein of the same isozyme. The alpha C1A-C1B domain also potently activated the isozyme in a phorbol ester- and diacylglycerol-dependent manner. The level of this activity was comparable with that resulting from membrane association induced under maximally activating conditions. Furthermore, it was found that alpha C1A-C1B bound to a peptide containing the C2 domain of PKC alpha. The alpha C1A-C1B domain also activated conventional PKC beta I, -beta II, and -gamma isoforms, but not novel PKC delta or -epsilon. PKC delta and -epsilon were each activated by their own C1 domains, whereas PKC alpha, -beta I, -beta II, or -gamma activities were unaffected by the C1 domain of PKC delta and only slightly activated by that of PKC epsilon. PKC zeta activity was unaffected by its own C1 domain and those of the other PKC isozymes. Based on these findings, it is proposed that the activating conformational change in PKC alpha results from the dissociation of intra-molecular interactions between the alpha C1A-C1B domain and the C2 domain. Furthermore, it is shown that PKC alpha forms dimers via inter-molecular interactions between the C1 and C2 domains of two neighboring molecules. These mechanisms may also apply for the activation of the other conventional and novel PKC isozymes.
Variations in chromosome size and organization in Candida albicans and Candida stellatoidea

Candida albicans and the closely related species Candida stellatoidea are medically important diploid asexual yeasts. Clinical isolates frequently show variant electrophoretic karyotypes, apparently due largely to chromosomal translocations. These translocations seem to occur at hot spots characterized by the repeated DNA sequence RSP1. A programmed karyotypic rearrangement occurs in C. stellatoidea. Karyotypic rearrangement may serve as a source of genetic variation in these asexual yeasts.
Sexual dimorphism of structures showing indeterminate growth: tusks of American mastodons (Mammut americanum)

Abstract Documenting sexual dimorphism for structures that exhibit indeterminate growth can be more difficult than for structures exhibiting determinate growth. Most proboscidean tusks are ever-growing structures that change size and shape throughout life. Sexual dimorphism is pronounced in tusks of mature individuals, but the external form of tusks offers no clear evidence of maturation, and it is difficult to distinguish a young male's tusk from that of an older female. Thus, with previous approaches, knowledge of age was often required to assess sex from tusk measurements. This study examines sexual dimorphism of American mastodon (Mammut americanum) tusks through principal components analysis to determine which aspects of tusk form contribute most strongly to the variance among measurements and to explore the relationship between tusk form and individual age and sex. Twenty-one mastodon tusks from the Great Lakes region were evaluated in two analyses, the first focusing on geometrically distinct aspec...
Autism-Associated Promoter Variant in MET Impacts Functional and Structural Brain Networks

As genes that confer increased risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are identified, a crucial next step is to determine how these risk factors impact brain structure and function and contribute to disorder heterogeneity. With three converging lines of evidence, we show that a common, functional ASD risk variant in the Met Receptor Tyrosine Kinase (MET) gene is a potent modulator of key social brain circuitry in children and adolescents with and without ASD. MET risk genotype predicted atypical fMRI activation and deactivation patterns to social stimuli (i.e., emotional faces), as well as reduced functional and structural connectivity in temporo-parietal regions known to have high MET expression, particularly within the default mode network. Notably, these effects were more pronounced in individuals with ASD. These findings highlight how genetic stratification may reduce heterogeneity and help elucidate the biological basis of complex neuropsychiatric disorders such as ASD.
Optimization of an adaptive neural network to predict breathing.

Purpose: To determine the optimal configuration and performance of an adaptive feed forward neural network filter to predict breathing in respiratory motion compensation systems for external beam radiation therapy. Method and Materials: A two-layer feed forward neural network was trained to predict future breathing amplitudes for 27 recorded breathing histories. The prediction intervals ranged from 100 to 500 ms. The optimal sampling frequency, number of input samples, training rate, and number of training epochs were determined for each breathing history and prediction interval. The overall optimal filter configuration was determined from this parameter survey, and its accuracy for each breathing example was compared to the individually optimal filter setups. Prediction accuracy was also compared to breathing stability as measured by the autocorrelation of the breathing signal. Results: The survey of filter configurations converged on a standard setup for all examples of breathing. For 24 of the 27 breathing histories the accuracy of the standard filter for a 300 ms prediction interval was within a few percent of the individually optimized filter setups; for the remaining three histories the standard filter was 5%–15% less accurate. Conclusions: A standard adaptive neural network filter setup can provide approximately optimal breathing prediction for a wide range of breathing patterns. The filter accuracy has a clear correlation with the stability of breathing.
Vibrational Spectroscopy Study of Selenate and Sulfate Adsorption Mechanisms on Fe and Al (Hydr)oxide Surfaces.

The coordination and speciation of selenate (SeO(4)) and sulfate (SO(4)) on goethite and Al oxide were studied using Raman and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Raman spectra were collected from pastes of suspensions containing 4 mM SeO(4) or SO(4). For SO(4), complementary data were collected by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy in goethite systems with 1 mM SO(4) and in Al oxide systems with 4 mM SO(4). The combined data set of Raman and ATR-FTIR spectra indicate that both inner- and outer-sphere surface complexes of SeO(4) and SO(4) occur on these metal (hydr)oxide surfaces. These spectral data show that SeO(4) and SO(4) have a similar complexation behavior on the same adsorbent. On goethite, these form predominantly monodentate inner-sphere surface complexes at pH 6 these anions exist predominantly as outer-sphere surface complexes. On Al oxide, in contrast, these anions exist predominantly as outer-sphere surface complexes, but a small fraction is also present as an inner-sphere complex at pH <6. A comparison of the spectral intensities of these anions on goethite and Al oxide shows that complexation of these anions with Al oxide is weaker than with Fe oxide. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.
Is heading a soccer ball injurious to brain function

With the growing popularity of soccer both in the United States and worldwide, reports of adverse effects of 'heading' on brain function are a source of concern. This article reviews the related research literature on neurologic and neuropsychological findings. Neurologic and neuropsychological abnormalities have been reported in a significant minority of older former professional players in Norway. Purportedly unrelated to age, the most prominent findings were cerebral atrophy and impairment on intelligence test abilities that are particularly vulnerable to brain damage. Also noteworthy in these retired players were persistent physical, cognitive, and emotional complaints consistent with a postconcussive syndrome. Younger amateur players appear to be free of major abnormalities, although some report persistent difficulties with memory and concentration. The severity of these complaints may be related to a history of soccer-related head injuries and not necessarily specific to heading. Research findings specific to heading are not more than suggestive at best, and clarification of the risks of heading a soccer ball awaits more definitive studies.
Temperature dependence of cyanogen radical reactions with selected alkanes: CN reactivities towards primary, secondary and tertiary CH bonds

Abstract The absolute rate constants for the reactions of CN with C 2 H 6 , C 3 H 8 , i -C 4 H 10 , neo-C 5 H 12 (neopentane), and C 8 H 18 (hexamethylethane, HME) have been measured between 170 and 740 K using the laser photolysis/laser-induced fluorescence method. These rate constants, expressed in units of cm 3 /s can be effectively represented by k C 2 H 6 = 1.04 × 10 −14 T 1.26 exp (208/ T ), k C 3 H 8 = 2.44 × 10 −14 T 1.19 exp(378/ T ), k i -C 4 H 10 = 3.61 × 10 −14 T 1.16 exp(392/ T ), k neo-C 5 H 12 = 1.28 × 10 −12 T 0.61 exp(230/ T ), and k HME = 10 (−9.97±0.05) exp(47±15/ T ). Based on the averaged value of the primary CH rates in ethane and neopantane, we estimate the rate constant for the CN attack on tertiary CH in i -C 4 H 10 to be k t ( i -C 4 H 10 ) = 6.86 × 10 −17 T 1.89 exp(720/ T ) and the rate for the CN attack on each secondary CH in C 3 H 8 to be k S (C 3 H 8 ) = 6.25 × 10 −15 T 1.17 exp(440/ T ) A negative temperature dependence of the rate is observed in the low-temperature studies with propane and isobutane which is attributed to steric hindrance of the more reactive secondary and tertiary CH bonds by the less reactive CH 3 groups. The lack of a significant negative temperature dependence for CN+ neopentane and HME lends support to this model.
The sexual behaviour of hybrid male mice compared with the sexual behaviour of males of the inbred parent strains

Abstract The sexual behaviour of male mice of the inbred strains C57BL/6J and DBA/2J, and their f 1 hybrid (B 6 D 2 F 1 ), was studied using 14 different behavioural measures. The F 1 males were found to: (1) resemble C57BL/6J males on some measures, (2) resemble DBA/2J males on other measures, (3) fall intermediately to the two parent strains on a third group of measures, (4) display hybrid vigour on still other measures.
EFFECT OF CURRENT ON MINERAL UPTAKE AND RESPIRATION BY A FRESH-WATER ALGA1

P32 uptake and CO2 evolution by Oedogonium kurzii Zeller were compared in the laboratory in still and moving water. An “inherent current demand” by this lotic species was indicated a) by x10 increase in P32 uptake at current equivalents of 18 cm/sec; and b) by a 70% increase in respired CO2 in dark bottles at current equivalents of 15 cm/sec. In a current this demand is satisfied by the creation of a steep diffusion gradient.
The bubble behavior in the gas-solids fluidized bed†

The bubbling frequency in a gas-solids fluidized bed and its stochastic variation along the axial direction of the bed were determined by means of the capacitance method. The stochastic model proposed, more specifically a pure-death process, appears to be capable of describing the resultant data well. On a determine, par mesures de capacitance, la frequence des bulles dans un lit fluidise gaz-solide, ainsi que la variation stochastique de cette frequence dans la direction axiale du lit. Le modele stochastique propose, qui n'implique que des termes de disparition, semble apte a bien decrire les donnees obtenues.
In vitro comparative bond strength of contemporary self-adhesive resin cements to zirconium oxide ceramic with and without air-particle abrasion

This study compared shear bond strengths of six self-adhesive resin cements to zirconium oxide ceramic with and without air-particle abrasion. One hundred twenty zirconia samples were air-abraded (group SB; n = 60) or left untreated (group NO). Composite cylinders were bonded to the zirconia samples with either BisCem (BC), Maxcem (MC), G-Cem (GC), RelyX Unicem Clicker (RUC), RelyX Unicem Applicator (RUA), or Clearfil SA Cement (CSA). Shear bond strength was tested after thermocycling, and data were analyzed with analysis of variance and Holm–Sidak pairwise comparisons. Without abrasion, RUA (8.0 MPa), GC (7.9 MPa), and CSA (7.6 MPa) revealed significantly higher bond strengths than the other cements. Air-particle abrasion increased bond strengths for all test cements (p < 0.001). GC (22.4 MPa) and CSA (18.4 MPa) revealed the highest bond strengths in group SB. Bond strengths of self-adhesive resin cements to zirconia were increased by air-particle abrasion. Cements containing adhesive monomers (MDP/4-META) were superior to other compositions.
Investigation of the nonlinearity in few mode fibers

Nonlinear effects in few-mode fibers (FMF) have been explored in the early years of optical communication. Due to the development of space-division multiplexing (SDM) technology for fiber transmission in FMF, the nonlinearity in FMF has attracted significant research interests recently. Analogous to single-mode fiber, nonlinear effects may eventually limit the information capacity in FMF transmission systems. In this paper, we first reviewed the past and current research in this area. The paper then concentrates on the theoretical and numerical investigation of inter-modal four-wave mixing (IM-FWM) among up to four spatial modes in FMFs. Different forms of multi-mode non-linear Schrodinger equation (MM-NLSE) for two, three and four spatial modes are derived, along with up to twelve types of wave/mode distributions and their corresponding phase matching conditions. We analyze the mixed effects of differential mode group delay (DMGD), chromatic dispersion (CD), random mode coupling (RMC) and wavelength separation upon IM-FWM efficiency in FMF. In addition, intermodal nonlinear effects in FMFs may potentially provide a variety of innovative optical signal processing functionality for fiber network applications through this additional spatial dimension. For example, we show simultaneous mode and wavelength conversion based on IM-FWM, and explore the effects of group velocity dispersions in order to achieve higher conversion efficiency.
On the computation of minimal polynomials

Let K be a field and let f and g be non-constant elements of K[T] . Assume thatgcd(deg f deg g ) is not divisible by the characteristic of K . This paper describes an algorithm to compute the polynomial p(X, Y) of minimal degree such that p(f, g) = 0. Using ideas needed to justify the algorithm, a new proof is given of the fact that if K[f, g]= K[T] , then either deg g dividesdeg f or deg f divides deg g .
Comparison of Digital Radiographic Units

A total PACS will be inevitable for radiology practice within several years. To achieve a total PACS for radiology, a satisfactory digital radiographic unit is required, because approximately 65% of digital data for PACS comes from digital radiographs. There are several possibilities for producing digital radiographs, and 3 - 4 companies have been marketing digital radiographic devices. Some data regarding the digital radiographic units on the market are compared. It will aid in assessing the current status and availability of this aspect of development, as well as providing a summary of further development of digital radiographic technology.
The general isothermal oxidation behavior of Cu–8Cr–4Nb

Oxidation kinetics and oxide morphologies of Cu–8Cr–4Nb (‘GRCop-84’) were investigated by TGA and microscopy/microanalysis, and compared to those of ‘NARloy-Z’ (a Cu–Ag–Zr Cu alloy) between 500 and 900°C. NARloy-Z and Cu had identical oxidation behavior; but Cu–8Cr–4Nb differed strongly, with slower kinetics below ~700°C and a markedly complex oxidation behavior at all temperatures. Explanations are offered for Cu–8Cr–4Nb oxidation behavior, in the various temperature regimes, in terms of oxide types and their morphologies, with emphasis on a kinetic control at intermediate temperatures by a reservoir effect.
Carbon storage benefits of agroforestry systems

The process of land degradation is a local phenomenon that occurs field by field. Because of the extent at which it is occurring, however, it also has a global dimension. Agroforestry represents a link between the local and global scales. From the farmer's perspective, agroforestry can be a way to increase crop yields and the diversity of products grown. An additional benefit is the creation of a carbon sink that removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Successful agroforestry systems will also reduce land clearing and maintain carbon in existing vegetation. An extensive literature survey was conducted to evaluate the carbon dynamics of agroforestry practices and to assess their potential to store carbon. Data on tree growth and wood production were converted to estimates of carbon storage. Surveyed literature showed that median carbon storage by agroforestry practices was 9 tC/ha in semi-arid, 21 tC/ha in sub-humid, 50 tC/ha in humid, and 63 tC/ha in temperate ecozones. The limited survey information available substantiated the concept that implementing agroforestry practices can help reduce deforestation.
Mode mixing in fiber optic oximeter

Most catheter based oximeters use optical fiber to deliver two M more colors of light to the blood and collect the reflected lights with another optical fiber. Oxygen saturation of the blood is calculated from intensity of the returned lights. The coupling efficiency of this type of two-fiber sensor depends on the separation of fibers, the numerical aperture (NA) of the fibers, and the launching condition of lights from LED's to the transmission fiber. A micro-optical integrator was designed to combine outputs from two LED's into a multimode step-index fiber pig-tail through a high NA microball lens. The mismatch in the modes of propagation between red and IR lights was corrected by looping and sine-wave bending the fiber before it was coupled to an NA limiting GRIN lens, which also serves as an exit window. A far-field scan of two lights shows these two lights have spatial overlap of 92% or better. The overlap at the tip of the catheter, after it was coupled to the mode mixing pig-tail, is better than 98%. The addition of this simple method of mode-mixing has improved the overlap by nearly 30% and has substantially improved the accuracy of the oximeter, especially when in vitro calibration is used before taking the measurement in blood.
Cardiac Sarcoidosis Presenting as Constrictive Pericarditis

In patients with cardiac sarcoidosis, the sarcoid granulomas usually involve the myocardium or endocardium. The disease typically presents as heart failure with ventricular arrhythmias, conduction disturbances, or both. Constrictive pericarditis has rarely been described in patients with sarcoidosis: we found only 2 reports of this association. We report the case of a 57-year-old man who presented with clinical and hemodynamic features of constrictive pericarditis, of unclear cause. He was admitted for treatment of recurrent pleural effusion. After a complicated hospital course, he underwent pericardiectomy. His clinical and hemodynamic conditions improved substantially, and he was discharged from the hospital in good condition. The pathologic findings, the patient's clinical course, and his response to pericardiectomy led to our diagnosis of cardiac sarcoidosis presenting as constrictive pericarditis. In addition to the patient's case, we discuss the nature and diagnostic challenges of cardiac sarcoidosis. Increased awareness of this disease is necessary for its early detection, appropriate management, and potential cure.
Preserving the Confidentiality of Categorical Statistical Data Bases When Releasing Information for Association Rules

In the statistical literature, there has been considerable development of methods of data releases for multivariate categorical data sets, where the releases come in the form of marginal tables corresponding to subsets of the categorical variables. Very recently some of the ideas have been extended to allow for the release of combinations of mixtures of marginal tables and conditional tables for subsets of variables. Association rules can be viewed as conditional tables. In this paper we consider possible inferences an intruder can make about confidential categorical data following the release of information on one or more association rules. We illustrate this with several examples.
Sensory nerve terminal mitochondrial dysfunction activates airway sensory nerves via transient receptor potential (TRP) channels.

Mitochondrial dysfunction and subsequent oxidative stress has been reported for a variety of cell types in inflammatory diseases. Given the abundance of mitochondria at the peripheral terminals of sensory nerves and the sensitivity of transient receptor potential (TRP) ankyrin 1 (A1) and TRP vanilloid 1 (V1) to reactive oxygen species (ROS) and their downstream products of lipid peroxidation, we investigated the effect of nerve terminal mitochondrial dysfunction on airway sensory nerve excitability. Here we show that mitochondrial dysfunction evoked by acute treatment with antimycin A (mitochondrial complex III Qi site inhibitor) preferentially activated TRPA1-expressing “nociceptor-like” mouse bronchopulmonary C-fibers. Action potential discharge was reduced by the TRPA1 antagonist HC-030031. Inhibition of TRPV1 further reduced C-fiber activation. In mouse dissociated vagal neurons, antimycin A induced Ca2+ influx that was significantly reduced by pharmacological inhibition or genetic knockout of either TRPA1 or TRPV1. Inhibition of both TRPA1 and TRPV1 was required to abolish antimycin A-induced Ca2+ influx in vagal neurons. Using an HEK293 cell expression system, antimycin A induced concentration-dependent activation of both hTRPA1 and hTRPV1 but failed to activate nontransfected cells. Myxothiazol (complex III Qo site inhibitor) inhibited antimycin A-induced TRPA1 activation, as did the reducing agent dithiothreitol. Scavenging of both superoxide and hydrogen peroxide inhibited TRPA1 activation following mitochondrial modulation. In conclusion, we present evidence that acute mitochondrial dysfunction activates airway sensory nerves preferentially via TRPA1 through the actions of mitochondrially-derived ROS. This represents a novel mechanism by which inflammation may be transduced into nociceptive electrical signaling.