cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
MIMESIS: LINKING POSTMODERN THEORY TO HUMAN BEHAVIOR

This article elaborates mimesis as a theory of causality used to explain human behavior. Drawing parallels to social constructionism's critique of positivism and naturalism, mimesis is offered as a theory of causality explaining human behavior that contests the current dominance of Newton's theory of causality as cause and effect. The contestation of Newton's theory takes place within the specific dimension of explaining human behavior. Working complementarily with social constructionism, mimesis is offered as a broad fundamental theory defining the postmodern discourse as it relates to the human sciences. As such, it provides a vital link in connecting various postmodern theories of language (e.g., Foucault's technology of power) to explaining human behavior and, hence, aiding postmodern social work practice.
Rayleigh's Principle via least action

This paper presents a new and direct derivation of the well-known stationarity properties of Rayleigh's Quotient (Lagrange's Theorem). The proof is based on the application of the general variable space and time-endpoints Principle of “Least” Action (PLA) to the linear, free and undamped oscillations of conservative systems. The paper makes clear why the varied motions used in PLA must result from variations in both the amplitudecoefficients and the frequencies of the oscillatory modes.
Use of a Braille Exchange Communication System to Improve Articulation and Acquire Mands with a Legally Blind and Developmentally Disabled Female

This research examined the effectiveness of a Braille Exchange Communication System (BECS) on a legally blind adult with developmental disabilities to determine the effects on word articulation and acquisition of mands. The procedures used a multiple baseline design across four sets of words in a three-phase experiment. Phase one measured word articulation. Phase two measured acquisition of vocal mands. Phase three analyzed the exchange for communication component. Results for phases one and two showed that with verbal prompts and fading procedures, verbal responding increased dramatically. For phase three, using BECS was effective in improving communication exchanges through the use of physical prompting with fading procedures. An additional unique feature of having a third person score IOA data was included to ensure vocal response integrity.
Nonverbal Accommodation in Health Care Communication

This exploratory study examined patterns of nonverbal accommodation within health care interactions and investigated the impact of communication skills training and gender concordance on nonverbal accommodation behavior. The Nonverbal Accommodation Analysis System (NAAS) was used to code the nonverbal behavior of physicians and patients within 45 oncology consultations. Cases were then placed in one of seven categories based on patterns of accommodation observed across the interaction. Results indicated that across all NAAS behavior categories, physician-patient interactions were most frequently categorized as joint convergence, followed closely by asymmetrical-patient convergence. Among paraverbal behaviors, talk time, interruption, and pausing were most frequently characterized by joint convergence. Among nonverbal behaviors, eye contact, laughing, and gesturing were most frequently categorized as asymmetrical-physician convergence. Differences were predominantly nonsignificant in terms of accommodation behavior between pre- and post-communication skills training interactions. Only gesturing proved significant, with post-communication skills training interactions more likely to be categorized as joint convergence or asymmetrical-physician convergence. No differences in accommodation were noted between gender-concordant and nonconcordant interactions. The importance of accommodation behavior in health care communication is considered from a patient-centered care perspective.
Consumer friendly or reader hostile? An evaluation of the readability of DTC print ads.

ABSTRACT The Food and Drug Administration requires advertisements promoting prescription drugs to be written in “consumer friendly” language. The purpose of this study is to examine the language of Direct-to-Consumer prescription drug advertisements to determine if such language is easy for consumers to read and understand. A series of advertisements for a variety of products, appearing in popular consumer magazines, were analyzed using the Flesch and Gunning-Fogg formulas to determine if DTC advertisements are more or less complex than other advertisements that consumers read today. Results indicate that DTC ads are among the most difficult print ads to read. Additionally, certain types of information contained in these print ads (such as information discussing a drug's risks and contraindications) are significantly more difficult to read than information in any other type of ad copy in magazines today. Implications for DTC marketers and the FDA are included.
On the relationship between the conformation and the catalyzed reactivity of acyl-chymotrypsin.

Abstract The stability of acyl-chymotrypsins, in particular O-[β-(3-indole)acryloyl]-Ser195-α-chymotrypsin, towards (aqueous) solvent denaturants has been studied by examining the composition of final products and the kinetics of their formation following incubation in particular denaturing solvents. Near neutral pH, the originally “native” acylenzyme might, a priori, be anticipated to undergo either intramolecular catalytic hydrolysis yielding carboxylate anion, or denaturation yielding the unreactive “denatured” acylenzyme. Near neutral pH, both these processes occur at relatively low velocity (half-lives of the order of minutes or hours) in solvents in which denaturation of “native” unsubstituted enzyme is a rapid process (half-lives of the order of milliseconds or seconds). The partitioning of product between carboxylate anion (the catalytic product) and denatured acylenzyme is a function of the composition of the particul r denaturing solvent. Over a restricted but catalytically significant pH range, the total rate of product formation is unaffected by the particular (solvent-dependent) partitioning ratio, suggesting a common rate-determining intermediate for catalysis and for denaturation. Changes in the catalytic velocity (vp), which can be effected either by the addition of competitive nucleophiles (such as hydroxylamine), or by the introduction of acyl derivatives with different reactivities, lead to corresponding changes in the velocity of denaturation (vp) and hence have little effect on the partitioning ratio ( v p v d ). This latter result indicates that a covalently modified acylenzyme-nucleophile complex is an obligatory intermediate in both catalysis and denaturation of the acylenzyme, and that catalysis and (variable) conformation of the polypeptide are intimately related. The nature of the structural and chemical changes occurring during catalysis are considered.
Heart disease of pulmonary origin.

It behooves clinical investigators in a University Hospital group to survey from time to time, recorded clinical material on pressing diagnostic and therapeutic problems. Heart disease of pulmonary origin is a pertinent and pressing topic for, when fully developed, it has been considered hopeless by too many physicians. We have, therefore, reviewed our cases in an attempt to reemphasize precipitating and perpetuating conditions, determine predisposing factors and evaluate early diagnostic signs. We hope to touch upon possible prophylactic measures and argue for the establishment of as effective a program of management as possible. We first studied the records of 208 cases, who had been cross filed under the diagnosis of chronic cor pulmonale. It soon became apparent that minimal criteria for the diagnosis of chronic cor pulmonale had to be established, and after considerable study we arrived at those set down in Table I. We were acutely aware that chronic cor pulmonale is an end result of an insidious process. Furthermore we were fully conscious of the difficulty of arbitrarily drawing a line separating definite cor pulmonale from pulmonary disease with positional electrocardiographic changes. The application of our criteria, as outlined here, has limited our study to patients with definite respiratory disease and pulmonary hypertension, and definite right atrial and right ventricular enlargement; as shown by the electrocardiogram or the teleradiogram. In addition, we have accepted the presence of right heart failure, without left failure, as presumptive evidence of right ventricular enlargement, even when other signs were equivocal. Patients with tricuspid or pulmonary valvular
The Effects of Behavioral Speech Therapy on Speech Sound Production With Adults Who Have Cochlear Implants

Purpose In this study, the authors examined the treatment efficacy of a behavioral speech therapy protocol for adult cochlear implant recipients. Method The authors used a multiple-baseline, across...
Air concentrations of krypton-85 in the midwest United States during January–May 1974

Abstract Twice-daily air samples were collected at thirteen sites in the mid-western U.S. from 24 January to 20 May, 1974 in a study of the long-range transport and dilution of the 85Kr plume emitted at the National Reactor Testing Station (NRTS) in Idaho. The NRTS plume (about 1000 Ci day−1) proved to have very little effect on the 85Kr background concentrations in the midwest (1500–2500 km from the source). The mean concentration during the month prior to the start of emissions was 14.0 compared to 13.8pCi/SCM−1 during the most active emission period. Almost all of the 2500 samples collected had 85Kr concentrations within 5% of the ambient background. Meteorological analysis indicated marked changes in 85Kr concentrations from one air mass to another with relatively little fluctuation within an air mass. Surface dewpoint temperature, a quasi-conservative air mass property, was found to be well correlated with 85Kr fluctuations. Occasional high concentrations of 85Kr at Indianapolis and Detroit were found to be caused by plumes from the Savannah River Plant in South Carolina. Two episodes of anomalously high concentrations at Minneapolis are attributed to unknown local sources.
Jarvis revisited: distance decay in service areas of mid-19th century asylums.

Edward Jarvis in 1850 first demonstrated that admission rates to mental hospitals decrease with increasing residential distance, a relationship known today as “Jarvis's Law.” His original data are presented, mapped, and examined by regression analysis to better understand spatial and temporal patterns of mid-19th century mental hospital utilization. Distance substantially affected admission rates to a radius of about 60 miles from the institution in Massachusetts; and there was strong distance decay in the other states examined. For all twelve states, there was a positive association between age of the hospitals and admission rates, which also decreased with increasing residential distance.
The proliferation of skulls in popular culture: a case study of how the traditional symbol of mortality was rendered meaningless

For centuries, depictions of skulls symbolised either warnings of lethal threat or moralistic reminders of the transience of life and the vanity of earthly pleasures. However, by the first decade o...
Puzzles, Time, and Ethnographic Sensibilities: Research Methods after the Arab Spring

Parallel transformations in both the post-Arab spring Middle East and the publishing world present tests for scholars of the region. This essay suggests three strategies for reframing challenges as opportunities and reconceptualizing the seeming liabilities of academic work as resources. First, I propose that the surprising character of recent upheavals ought not demoralize scholarly inquiry but rather invigorate it by showcasing the kinds of difficult puzzles that propel innovation in research and theory-building. Second, I suggest that the fast pace of publishing over the Internet should renew our appreciation for its antithesis: the unique benefits of exploring and developing ideas slowly over time. Third, I argue that these two challenges-turned-opportunities come together to highlight the value of research methods with an ethnographic sensibility. These approaches can help us ground theory in a more nuanced understanding of the individual and the lived experience of change.
A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF NUMERICAL TECHNIQUES APPLIED TO A MODEL OF THE OTOLITH MEMBRANE

Abstract This paper describes three alternative finite difference methods applied to a model of the otolith membrane. The in-plane displacement of a thin elastic membrane is modeled by a second-order system of elliptic partial differential equations with a fixed boundary closely matching the shape of the otolith membrane. The first two finite difference methods impose a rectangular grid over the shape of the otolith membrane and use different boundary extrapolation schemes applied to boundary conditions. The third method uses an optimization technique to generate a non-uniform grid which conforms to the shape of the otolith membrane, and then generates a rectangular grid via general coordinate transformations. The coordinate transformations are applied to the partial differential equations and finite differences applied to the new rectangular grid with fixed boundary conditions. All three methods were used to simulate the membrane model on a digital computer. The numerical results are compared to evaluate the effectiveness of the coordinate transformation method.
Ability of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 Therapy to Augment Serum 1,25- and 24,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis*

Six women (mean age, 62 yr; range, 48–77 yr) who were considered to have postmenopausal osteoporosis, as demonstrated by radiological evidence of vertebral crush fractures, low intestinal calcium (Ca) absorption, and bone biopsies consistent with this diagnosis, received a pharmacological dose of 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 (25OHD3; 20 µg/day) for 3 months. This treatment increased the serum concentration of 25OHD from 8.7 ± 4.6 to 30.2 ± 9.5 (SD) ng/ml (P < 0.0025), increased the serum concentration of 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D from 1.2 ± 1.2 to 7.7 ± 2.7 ng/ml (P < 0.025) in three patients, and increased the serum concentration of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D from 2.1 ± 1.7 to 4.3 ± 1.5 ng/dl (P < 0.025). Moreover, there were commensurate increases in fractional intestinal Ca absorption from 0.38 ± 0.03 to 0.49 ± 0.06 (P < 0.025) and in urinary Ca from 69 ± 31 to 127 ± 67 mg/day (P < 0.025). There were no significant changes in serum Ca (9.6 ± 0.5 us. 9.5 ± 0.4 mg⁄dl), serum phosphorus (3.4 ± 0.2 us. 3.6 ± 0.4 mg⁄dl...
Characterization of clonal populations of theHeliothis zea cell line IPLB-HZ 1075

A total of 24 clones (HZ 1075/UND-A through X) were initially isolated by dilution plating from the established IPLB-HZ 1075 cell line. Many of the isolates with highly vacuolated cytoplasms eventually died during subculturing. The cloned cell strains differed in their predominant morphology, cell doubling times, and relative ability to support replication of the singly encapsulated nuclear polyhedrosis virus ofHeliothis zea (HzSNPV). The origin of the cloned cell strains was confirmed by comparing their isozyme profiles with those of the parental IPLB-HZ 1075 cell line andH. zea larvae using stains for fumerate hydratase, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and malic dehydrogenase (MDH). One dipteran and several lepidopteran cell lines maintained in our lab were also separable using stains for LDH and MDH.
χ (3) scattering noises in nonlinear optical phase conjugation

Phase conjugation by Four-Wave Mixing (FWM) is treated quantum mechanically as a multiphoton scattering process. The spontaneous scattering of two counter-propagating photons gives rise to a background noise, whereas the stimulated scattering in the presence of the probe beam generates the phase conjugate signal. In addition, the stimulated scattering also contributes to a background noise which has never been discussed. Compared with Rayleigh scattering noise, the χ(3) scattering noises are relatively small for intensity up to 108 W/cm2. For higher intensities, the χ(3) scattering noises, in conjunction with the Rayleigh scattering noise, will affect the spatial fidelity of the optical phase conjugation.
Economic comparison of milkfish farming in Taiwan and the Philippines, 1972–1975

Abstract Economic surveys of milkfish production in ponds in Taiwan and the Philippines for 1972 are compared and the economic changes that occurred in the milkfish industry during 1972–1975 in both countries are discussed. The relative costs of production in these countries are evaluated in terms of output per unit of input (land and labor), and by comparing differences in production and marketing per unit of output. The advantages and disadvantages of the different milkfish farming practices in these countries are also explained.
A simple PDMS-based electro-fluidic interface for microchip electrophoretic separations

High voltage electrodes for electrophoresis have been integrated into a polymer layer that can be reversibly bound to glass microchips for electrophoretic separations. By using the liquid precursor to the polymer polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), platinum electrodes and reservoirs can be positioned prior to solidification, providing a simple and flexible method for electrode interface construction. Field strengths up to 875 V cm−1 over an 8 cm separation channel can be applied to the system without any loss in performance of the interface. The interface can function as an electro-fluidic interface between the high voltage power supply and the separation channel and, when reversibly sealed to an etched glass plate, functions as a cover plate establishing a hybrid PDMS–glass microchip in which the electrodes are directly integrated onto the device. The versatility of this approach is not only demonstrated by separating DNA fragments in a novel buffer sieving matrix, but also with the molecular diagnostic analysis of a variety of DNA samples for Duschenne Muscular Dystrophy and cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, using both microchip interface configurations.
Can the interests of shareholders explain industry attitudes toward banking-insurance mergers?

The banking industry generally supports and the insurance industry generally opposes the removal of regulatory boundaries between the two industries. In an effort to explain these industry attitudes, this article examines the effect, in the absence of synergies, of hypothetical mergers of banks and insurance companies on shareholders' risk and return. The results suggest that, if cash flows are not impacted by the mergers, the attitudes of industry management toward inter-industry mergers cannot be motivated by concerns for shareholder risk and return since, during the data period considered, insurer shareholders would have gained more by acquiring banks than bank shareholders would have gained from acquiring insurers.
Re‐inventing subject access for the semantic Web

First generation scholarly research on the Web lacked a firm system of authority control. Second generation Web research is beginning to model subject access with library science principles of bibliographic control and cataloguing. Harnessing the Web and organising the intellectual content with standards and controlled vocabulary provides precise search and retrieval capability, increasing relevance and efficient use of technology. Dublin Core metadata standards permit a full evaluation and cataloguing of Web resources appropriate to highly specific research needs and discovery. Current research points to a type of structure based on a system of faceted classification. This system allows the semantic and syntactic relationships to be defined. Controlled vocabulary, such as the Library of Congress Subject Headings, can be assigned, not in a hierarchical structure, but rather as descriptive facets of relating concepts. Web design features such as this are adding value to discovery and filtering out data that lack authority. The system design allows for scalability and extensibility, two technical features that are integral to future development of the digital library and resource discovery.
Opioid peptides induce reduction of enkephalin receptors in cultured neuroblastoma cells.

Cultured mouse neuroblastoma cells (N4TG1)1,2 and neuroblastoma–glioma hybrid cells (NG108-15)3–5 contain enkephalin (δ) receptors2. Studies on hybrid cells have indicated that occupation of enkephalin receptors by opiates and opioid peptides leads to a time-dependent inhibition of adeny-late cyclase activity3–5. If exposure of these cells to agonists is continued, the activity of adenylate cyclase gradually returns to normal and increases above normal on removal of opioids, a phenomenon thought to resemble tolerance and dependence in animals. Direct receptor binding studies on neuroblastoma cells have shown no internalization of receptors1. Using rhodamine-conjugated [D-Ala2,Lys6]Leu-enkephalin and image-intensified fluorescence microscopy, enkephalin (δ) receptors in neuroblastoma cells were found slowly to form clusters which do not appear to be internalized6. This is in contrast to many polypeptide receptors7–12 which are internalized after the initial receptor–ligand interactions. This internalization is believed to be related to the so-called down-regulation or desensitization. We now report that after one to several hours exposure of monolayer cell cultures to enkephalin, the number of enkephalin receptors measured subsequently in the extensively washed membrane preparations is greatly reduced. This reduction in receptor number seems to be selective for opioid peptides and is antagonized by a variety of opiate agonists and antagonists. These observations may be important in elucidating the phenomenon of opioid-induced desensitization.
88. The impact of workload and training status on salivary antimicrobial proteins following acute exercise

Salivary antimicrobial proteins (sAMPs) protect the upper respiratory tract from invading microorganisms. Maintaining mucosal immune integrity is important for elite-level endurance athletes as high levels of training are associated with increased risks of upper respiratory tract infection (URTI). This study examined the effects of exercising workload and training status on the sAMP response to acute exercise. Seventeen trained cyclists completed three 30-min exercise trials at −5%, +5% and +15% of the individual blood lactate threshold (BLT). Saliva samples were collected pre and post-exercise to determine the concentration and secretion of α-amylase, HNP1–3, lactoferrin, LL-37, lysozyme, and sIgA. The concentration and/or secretion of all sAMPs increased post-exercise, but only α-amylase was sensitive to exercise workload. Highly trained cyclists (BLT power output/kg body mass > 2.8 w) had lower baseline concentrations of α-amylase, HNP1–3, and lactoferrin, although no group differences were found for baseline sAMP secretion rates. Highly trained cyclists did, however, exhibit greater post-exercise increases in the concentration and/or secretion of all measured sAMPs. This study shows that acute dynamic exercise increases sAMP concentration and secretion, and that α-amylase is sensitive marker of the sympathetic response that is associated with different exercising workloads. We also show for the first time that training status is a major determinant of both resting and exercise-induced changes in sAMPs, indicating a potential adaptive response to acute exercise in highly trained athletes.
Metal‐Free Stabilization of Monomeric Antimony(I): A Carbene‐Supported Stibinidene

A diamidocarbene was coordinated to an antimony(III) dichloride Lewis acid. Subsequent reduction with magnesium gave a monomeric, formally antimony(I) fragment that is supported by the diamidocarbene. Spectroscopic, crystallographic, and computational analyses demonstrated that the carbene ligand engages the antimony(I) center in π-backbonding resulting in a short (2.068(7) A) SbC interaction that is comparable to those observed in known stibaalkenes.
Subdioecy in Consolea spinosissima (Cactaceae): breeding system and embryological studies.

The breeding system and the embryology of Consolea spinosissima, a tree-like opuntioid endemic to Jamaica, were investigated. Morphological and embryological studies revealed that the species is subdioecious, with three sexual morphs present in the 150 3 120 m plot studied at Hellshire Hills, Jamaica. The female morph has pistillate flowers with open stigma lobes, no pollen grains, and sets fruit. The male morph has cryptic staminate flowers with closed stigma lobes, viable pollen grains, and a nonfunctional gynoecium that does not set seed. The weak hermaphrodite morph has low fruit set and ‘‘perfect’’ flowers that superficially resemble the functionally staminate flowers of the male morph. These perfect flowers reach anthesis with viable pollen grains, with no or only a few functional ovules, and with the style supporting pollen tube growth. Embryological studies showed that the critical stage for sex determination occurs earlier in pistillate than in staminate and perfect flowers. Anthers of pistillate flowers abort prior to microspore tetrad formation, whereas ovules of the staminate and perfect flowers degenerate after the complete maturation of the embryo sac. Based on flower structure and embryological data, we hypothesize that the ancestor of C. spinosissima is/was hermaphroditic.
Valve Replacement for Bacterial and Fungal Endocarditis A Comparative Study

Twenty-eight of 143 patients treated for infective endocarditis had replacement of one or more cardiac valves within six months after the diagnosis was made. Twenty-two patients (16%) with bacterial endocarditis had operation, and six died in hospital. All six patients with fungal endocarditis required vale replacement, and one died in hospital. Uncontrolled or progressive heart failure was the indication for operation in all patients with bacterial endocarditis. When severe heart failure was present, 5 of 11 patients with bacterial endocarditis died in hospital, and only 1 of 3 patients with associated bacteremia survived. If blood cultures were sterile, the duration of preoperative antibiotic therapy did not correlate with hospital survival. None of the patients with bacterial endocarditis developed prosthetic infections, but two developed paravalvular leak. Massive emboli or persistent mycotic septicemia were the indications for valve replacement in patients with fungal endocarditis. Viable organisms w...
Equation of state of dense, partially degenerate, reacting plasmas

A method is presented for treating ionization equilibrium in the presence of plasma coupling, which allows for the fact that heavy ions may be strongly coupled (liquidlike) while electrons are only moderately coupled (gaslike). The theory utilizes a many-body perturbation expansion of the grand canonical partition function. Three distinct renormalizations are required to handle the general problem. They account for (1) formation of electron-nucleus composites, (2) coupling of the composite particles to the plasma, and (3) strong coupling of multiply charged heavy ions. Five dimensionless parameters, which are the ratios of two lengths, are required to define the limits of applicability of the theory. Equation-of-state calculations for Ar have been carried out. Corrections to the Saha equation are found to be significantly smaller than predicted by the Debye-H\"uckel theory. At moderate density this is due to decreased net Coulomb attraction. At high density core repulsion tends to offset (or exceed) the Coulomb attraction term.
Of self-determination, care by proxy, and new techniques.

An 82-year-old female patient complains of acute back and chest pain due to osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture. She has a past medical history of mild dementia. Her neurologist tells her that she should undergo a vertebroplasty. She refuses energetically to give her consent for such a procedure. Her companion (a daughter) put this refusal on the account of cognitive impairment; she believes that the procedure should go ahead and proposes to serve as surrogate for the consent. What are the choices for the neurologist? ### Patient Autonomy Respect for patient autonomy is a fundamental principle of medical ethics. According to this principle, competent patients have the right to refuse any medical intervention for any reason and at any time. The immediate problem raised by the above case is that it is not clear whether the patient has or lacks decision-making capacity. We cannot infer from the fact that the patient has “mild dementia” that she lacks the capacity to refuse this particular intervention. To be sure, patients suffering from mild dementia typically are more easily subject to confusion and disorientation. However, these patients can also have periods of lucidity where they are able to understand and process information regarding their medical care. Such patients, therefore, often have the capacity to consent to, or refuse, medical interventions [1]. The first job for the neurologist in this case, then, is to determine whether the patient has or lacks the capacity to refuse this intervention. This determination should be based on his/her clinical assessment and not simply on the judgment of the patient's daughter. Moreover, the physician should bear in mind that, especially in patients with mild dementia, assessments of decision-making capacity may need to take place over several meetings. The physician should also take care to ensure that the conditions and timing of the …
Behavioral Health Parity and the Affordable Care Act

Prior to the passage of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) and the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), about 49 million Americans were uninsured. Among those with employer-sponsored health insurance, 2% had coverage that entirely excluded mental health benefits and 7% had coverage that entirely excluded substance use treatment benefits. The rates of noncoverage for mental and substance use disorder care in the individual health insurance markets are considerably higher. Private health insurance generally limits the extent of these benefits. The combination of MHPEA and ACA extended overall health insurance coverage to more people and expanded the scope of coverage to include mental health and substance abuse benefits.
Reaction of chlorine and uranium tetrachloride in the fused lithium chloride‐potassium chloride eutectic

The rates of the reaction of chlorine gas with uranium tetrachloride dissolved in the lithium chloride-potassium chloride eutectic have been studied in a wetted-rod contactor. The reaction was studied at temperatures from 400° to 700°C., uranium tetrachloride concentrations of 1 to 3 wt. %, and chlorine partial pressures of 0.25 to 1 atm. The production of uranium hexachloride appears to be limited by the equilibrium of the reaction UCL4 (solution) + Cl2 (g) = UCl6 (solution) at the interface and by U+4 diffusion in the liquid phase.
Effect of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis on a genetically-defined population of black flies (Diptera:Simuliidae) and associated insects in a montane New Hampshire stream.

A small, undisturbed stream in central New Hampshire was treated for 1 min with a 10 ppm suspension of Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis (B.t.i.) to determine the effect on an outlet-breeding black fly population and associated nontarget aquatic insects. The black fly larval population was eliminated and susbsequent adult black fly biting activity reduced near the treatment site although weather conditions may also have contributed to an observed decrease in biting activity. Some Chironomidae were killed by B.t.i. but they were not abundant enough to adequately assess impact on their populations. Temporary increases in the drift of two Ephemeroptera and two Trichoptera species were observed following treatment. Increase in rate of drift was inversely related to increase in distance from the treatment point. Slight increases in observed drift of three Plecoptera species could not be attributed directly to the B.t.i. treatment. No direct mortality caused by B.t.i. was observed in any stream insects studied except black fly larvae and some Chironomidae.
A theory of power-law distributions in financial market fluctuations

Insights into the dynamics of a complex system are often gained by focusing on large fluctuations. For the financial system, huge databases now exist that facilitate the analysis of large fluctuations and the characterization of their statistical behaviour. Power laws appear to describe histograms of relevant financial fluctuations, such as fluctuations in stock price, trading volume and the number of trades. Surprisingly, the exponents that characterize these power laws are similar for different types and sizes of markets, for different market trends and even for different countries--suggesting that a generic theoretical basis may underlie these phenomena. Here we propose a model, based on a plausible set of assumptions, which provides an explanation for these empirical power laws. Our model is based on the hypothesis that large movements in stock market activity arise from the trades of large participants. Starting from an empirical characterization of the size distribution of those large market participants (mutual funds), we show that the power laws observed in financial data arise when the trading behaviour is performed in an optimal way. Our model additionally explains certain striking empirical regularities that describe the relationship between large fluctuations in prices, trading volume and the number of trades.
Barrier in Pursuit-Evasion Problems between Two Low-Thrust Orbital Spacecraft

The main result in this paper is a near-optimal closed-form solution for the barrier which is obtained using linearized dynamics and a polynomial approximation in terms of timeto-go for the optimal thrusting angles. The region of validity of this solution is checked by comparing its results with numerically generated points on the barrier using the complete nonlinear orbital dynamics. An algebraic search scheme also is presented which determines whether a given state is on one side of the barrier or the other, and the possible application of these results to an interception guidance law is discussed. In Sec. II, the mathemetical conditions for finding barriers are summarized. The general nonlinear problem is treated first in Sec. III. The problem then is linearized and solved to obtain the near-optimal closed-form barrier solution in Sec. IV. The results from the nonlinear and linear barrier analyses also are compared here to check the region of validity of the near-optimal closed-form solutions. In Sec. V, an algebraic iteration scheme is presented to determine whether a given state is on one side of the barrier or the other. In Sec. VI, these results are used to establish a feedback control law, which can be used by either player to take advantage of any nonoptimal play of the other. Conclusions are presented in Sec. VII followed by an Appendix, which contains the details of the near-optimal closed-form solution for the barrier.
Gene expression profiling in human autoimmunity.

Human autoimmune diseases are well suited for the application of gene expression profiling. Sampling of blood cells and target tissues has already revealed many important pathways contributing to this spectrum of disorders, and many commonalities are emerging. For instance, clinically distinct diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren's syndrome, dermatomyositis, and psoriasis all show evidence for dysregulation of the type I interferon pathway. These data suggest that autoimmune diseases will eventually be categorized at the level of gene expression. This work has led to advances in our understanding of disease pathogenesis and in the future promises to facilitate assessments of disease activity and improve targeting of therapies. Here, we review the literature on gene profiling in human autoimmune diseases and provide perspective on the current state of the art.
ACQUIRING A NON-NATIVE PHONOLOGY: LINGUISTIC CONSTRAINTS AND SOCIAL BARRIERS

ACQUIRING A NON-NATIVE PHONOLOGY: LINGUISTIC CONSTRAINTS AND SOCIAL BARRIERS. Jette G. Hansen. New York: Continuum, 2006. Pp. 197. $160.00 cloth.Hansen's monograph concerns the phonological development of two Vietnamese adults acquiring English as a second language (L2). Data collection began 1 year after the couple's immigration to the United States and continued for a period of 1 year. The focus was on the developmental sequences involved in the acquisition of English syllable-initial and syllable-final consonant singletons and clusters, which are challenges to many L2 learners. In Vietnamese, syllable-final phones are limited to plosives, nasals, and semivowels; there are no consonant clusters.
Strong Focusing Cyclotron and Its Applications

A Strong Focusing cyclotron has been developed by the Accelerator Research Lab at Texas A&M to produce up to 10 mA of proton beam at 800 MeV. The cyclotron has several innovations that allow it to achieve such high levels of power. The first is the superconducting RF cavities that provide sufficient gain to separate the orbits by a minimum of 6 cm. This space allows for beam transport channels to be place along every orbit and provide continuous quadrupole focusing. Additionally, a trim dipole is added to the channel to allow for corrections to the main dipole. This document will show the new BTC design that allows for the cyclotron to be greatly simplified. The main dipole is kept below saturation and is shaped to levitate the poles. The main dipole, along with the RF cavity, are designed such that several cyclotrons could be stacked on top of one another. This design provides the high power beam required for several applications. These applications include accelerator driven systems, neutron damage facilities, and medical isotope production. Texas A&M has developed two designs for ADS fission: an isoburner and an isobreeder. Both of these designs will be expounded on within the document. A design for a neutron damage facility and it capabilities are presented as well as a medical isotope production design. The SFC has great potential to revolutionize these fields and be of great service to the US.
Fabrication of beam structures with micro-scale cross-sections and meso-scale spans

To allow testing of micro-scale aerodynamics, a process was created to manufacture beam structures that combine spans of 1 cm with a cross-section of 5 µm by 100 µm. The structural considerations limiting the fabrication of a structure combining macro-scale spans with a micro-scale cross-section are analyzed. Limiting considerations include forces during operation, fluid forces during release, vibrational limitations and beam buckling. Based on these results, a fabrication process for creating a beam structure for large spans without support structures is devised, incorporating the use of back-side etches and extra handling wafers to avoid stiction. This process is used to successfully fabricate the desired structure. (Some figures in this article are in colour only in the electronic version)
Network monitors and contracting systems: competition and innovation

Today's Internet industry suffers from several well-known pathologies, but none is as destructive in the long term as its resistance to evolution. Rather than introducing new services, ISPs are presently moving towards greater commoditization. It is apparent that the network's primitive system of contracts does not align incentives properly. In this study, we identify the network's lack of accountability as a fundamental obstacle to correcting this problem: Employing an economic model, we argue that optimal routes and innovation are impossible unless new monitoring capability is introduced and incorporated with the contracting system. Furthermore, we derive the minimum requirements a monitoring system must meet to support first-best routing and innovation characteristics. Our work does not constitute a new protocol; rather, we provide practical and specific guidance for the design of monitoring systems, as well as a theoretical framework to explore the factors that influence innovation.
P-WAVE ANALYSIS IN VALVULAR HEART DISEASE.

Electrocardiographic analysis of the P waves occurring in a series of 113 normal subjects and 100 patients with specifically defined valvular lesions are reviewed. The former methods of analysis showed a marked lack of specificity. By dividing the P wave in lead V1 into initial and terminal portions, a measure designated as the P terminal force has been derived. This measure is of value in two respects: (1) it correctly separates normal subjects from those patients with left-sided valvular lesions in 92 per cent of this series and (2) once a given valve lesion is suspected clinically, this measure enables one to make an estimation of the severity of that lesion from the degree of abnormality of the P terminal force at V1. The P terminal force does not indicate the type of valvular disease present, nor does it correlate with any one specific hemodynamic measure. The abnormality does appear to be related, within each separate type of valve disease, to the specific hemodynamic abnormality of that type of val...
An analytical model of the decomposition of soil organic matter

Abstract An intermediate resolution model of the decomposition of soil organic matter is developed from a comprehensive study of published experimental work. The many organic and inorganic forms of soil N, P, and K are mathematically treated, together with the various transformations between forms. Most of the transformations are moderated by microbes, and the dynamics of the microorganisms are explicitly represented. A simulation is made of a general heterotrophic population using organic C and N for energy, as well as nitrifiers which oxidize nitrogenous compounds chemotrophically. Such explicit treatment of microbe dynamics permits among other things the study of microbe immobilization of important plant nutrients. In addition to the simulation of biological aspects of decomposition, the model treats the physicochemical processes of precipitation, fertilizer and native mineral inputs, leaching loss, sorption of organic and inorganic ions on soil colloids, condensation between organic N and aromatic compounds, and exchange reactions. Model parameters are dealt with in detail in order to base them as firmly as possible on experimental information. The process rates include functional dependence on soil temperature and moisture. For clarity of presentation, the model is divided into four submodels, one each for N, P, and K, and the C energy substrate. The total model is coupled with a previous plant growth model, and thereby simulates complete element cycles within the plant-soil system.
Logistic regression in data analysis: an overview

Logistic regression (LR) continues to be one of the most widely used methods in data mining in general and binary data classification in particular. This paper is focused on providing an overview of the most important aspects of LR when used in data analysis, specifically from an algorithmic and machine learning perspective and how LR can be applied to imbalanced and rare events data.
The Q System: A Repressible Binary System for Transgene Expression, Lineage Tracing, and Mosaic Analysis

We describe a new repressible binary expression system based on the regulatory genes from the Neurospora qa gene cluster. This "Q system" offers attractive features for transgene expression in Drosophila and mammalian cells: low basal expression in the absence of the transcriptional activator QF, high QF-induced expression, and QF repression by its repressor QS. Additionally, feeding flies quinic acid can relieve QS repression. The Q system offers many applications, including (1) intersectional "logic gates" with the GAL4 system for manipulating transgene expression patterns, (2) GAL4-independent MARCM analysis, and (3) coupled MARCM analysis to independently visualize and genetically manipulate siblings from any cell division. We demonstrate the utility of the Q system in determining cell division patterns of a neuronal lineage and gene function in cell growth and proliferation, and in dissecting neurons responsible for olfactory attraction. The Q system can be expanded to other uses in Drosophila and to any organism conducive to transgenesis.
Correlation of optical and EPR signals with the P460 heme of hydroxylamine oxidoreductase from Nitrosomonas europaea.

Hydroxylamine oxidoreductase (HAO) of Nitrosomonas europaeacatalyzes the four-electron oxidation of NH2OH to NO2 - . Each subunit of the trimeric enzyme contains seven c-hemes and one heme P460. In previous work (Hendrich, M. P., et al. (1994) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 116, 11961-11968), an integer-spin EPR signal at g ) 7.7 was discovered from the active site of the resting enzyme. This new signal was assigned to an exchange-coupled cluster containing ferric heme P460 and a ferric c-heme. An electrochemical titration of HAO is presented here in which EPR signals and optical bands, believed to be associated with the P460 heme, are monitored. In the EPR titration, as a redox center with Em8 ) -140 mV becomes reduced, the integer-spin signal disappears. Then, upon reduction of a redox center with Em8 )- 190 mV, a g ) 6 type signal, which has been previously assigned to a high-spin form of the ferric P460 heme of HAO, appears. However, in the -140 to -190 mV range, we have been unable to identify an additional EPR signal attributable to the P460 center. Thus, the electronic environment of oxidized P460 heme of HAO appears to pass through three states before reduction in a titration experiment, with an intermediate state that is not readily detectable by X-band EPR. The best candidate for the c-heme partner of the P460 heme is the heme at -190 mV, which would correspond to heme 6 of the crystal structure. A possible function of the exchange-coupled heme cluster is to facilitate two-electron oxidation steps of the substrate. An earlier spectropotentiometric titration of HAO (Collins, M. J., et al. (1993) J. Biol. Chem. 268, 14655-14662) identified a broad, weak optical band, centered near 740 nm, that was tentatively assigned to the oxidized P460 heme. This assignment has been strengthened by additional spectropotentiometric titrations at several values of pH and also by rapid kinetic experiments following the reduction of HAO by dithionite. The 740 nm band is not observed in fully oxidized HAO. In the spectropotentiometric titrations, its appearance cannot be correlated with reduction of a specific c-heme nor modeled to a Nernstian one-electron redox center. Instead, the range of potential in which the 740 nm band is present depends on whether the titration is carried out in an oxidative or reductive direction. One possible interpretation is that the 740 nm band is a property of the oxidized high-spin P460 heme but not of the low-spin state, and that the transition between the two spin states occurs at different potentials depending on the direction of the electrochemical titration.
Methods for improved 3dB bandwidth in an injection-locked QDash Fabry Perot laser @ 1550nm

The alpha parameter's impact on an injection-locked Fabry-Perot QDash laser's bandwidth is analyzed. A large α is a primary approach to suppress the sag in the response and increase the bandwidth under positive frequency detuning.