cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The dynamics of California sea lion predation on Pacific hake

Abstract Seasonal and annual dynamics of California sea lion feeding on Pacific hake were examined in relation to prey availability using otoliths found in spewings and scats. Sea lions fed most heavily on 2- to 4-year-old hake in spring and summer (ca. 90% of the diet is hake). When hake moved offshore in the spawning season, sea lions fed more on other species (30–50% of the diet is hake). The strong 1973 year class of hake had a great impact on the size and species composition of the prey consumed because sea lions fed heavily on the juveniles of this year class. When 2- to 3-year-old hake were not abundant due to year class failures, sea lions fed more on larger hake and on other species, mostly rockfish. It is estimated that California sea lions annually consume from about 100 000 to 250 000 tons of Pacific hake. An empirical model is used as an aid to discuss the effects of prey density, availability of alternative prey and predator switching behavior on the intensity of sea lion feeding on hake.
In situ photography of picosecond laser ablation of nickel

Abstract This work experimentally investigated the time evolution of nickel ablation induced by high-energy picosecond laser pulses. A Nd:YAG laser with a 25 ps pulsewidth was used to perform a pump–probe microphotography experiment. The fundamental and second harmonic wavelengths were used for the pump and probe beams, respectively. The probe beam was delayed in time with respect to the pump beam and was reflected from the ablated surface into a camera to obtain time-resolved images. Photographs of the sample were obtained at the beginning of pump laser irradiation and continued until a time delay of 800 ps. Photographs revealed attenuation of the probe beam beginning during the pump pulse duration and lasting as long as the maximum time delay. Possible explanations of the probe beam attenuation are discussed, including homogeneous nucleation and the metal–dielectric transition near the thermodynamic critical temperature.
Autonomous Stair Climbing for Tracked Vehicles

In this paper, an algorithm for autonomous stair climbing with a tracked vehicle is presented. The proposed method achieves robust performance under real-world conditions, without assuming prior knowledge of the stair geometry, the dynamics of the vehicle's interaction with the stair surface, or lighting conditions. The approach relies on fast and accurate estimation of the robot's heading and its position relative to the stair boundaries. An extended Kalman filter is used for quaternion-based attitude estimation, fusing rotational velocity measurements from a 3-axial gyroscope, and measurements of the stair edges acquired with an onboard camera. A two-tiered controller, comprised of a centering- and a heading-control module, utilizes the estimates to guide the robot rapidly, safely, and accurately upstairs. Both the theoretical analysis and implementation of the algorithm are presented in detail, and extensive experimental results demonstrating the algorithm's performance are described.
Nation-building, identity and citizenship education: cross cultural perspectives

Joseph Zajda, Holger Daun and Lawrence J. Saha, Dordrecht, Springer, 2009, xiv+198 pp., €74.95 (hardcover), ISBN 978-1-4020-9317-3 In recent years, there has been an enormous increase in attention ...
Novel filter design algorithm for multivariate optical computing

A new algorithm for the design of optical computing filters for chemical analysis otherwise known as Multivariate Optical Elements (MOEs), is described. The approach is based on the nonlinear correlation of the MOE layer thicknesses to the standard error in sample prediction for the chemical species of interest using a modified version ofthe Gauss-Newton nonlinear optimization algorithm. The design algorithm can either be initialized by random layer thicknesses or by a pre-existing design. The algorithm has been successfully tested by using it to design a MOE for the determination of copper uroporphynn in a quaternary mixture of uroporphyrin (freebase), nickel uroporphyrin, copper uroporphynn, and tin uroporphyrin.
Of flags: Online queer identities, writing classrooms, and action horizons

Abstract In this article I argue that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) and queer pedagogies have been too exclusively focused on identity. The problem with these identity-based pedagogies is that they cannot fully account for actual LGBT identities, due in part to a continued multiplication of these identities online. I use LGBT pride flags to illustrate the ways in which these identities have proliferated, presenting a theoretical limit for current understandings of queer and LGBT pedagogy. As an alternative, I introduce the notion of the action horizon, which forms a pedagogy that encourages students to imagine themselves as actors in the public sphere, shaping policies and confronting complex real-world problems. The various LGBT pride flags then serve as material in three examples—an online asynchronous discussion, writing in a computer classroom, and paper assignments—all of which prompt students to enact the action horizon. Despite the possibilities for real-world engagement offered by the action horizon, success with this pedagogy can be limited in terms of LGBT issues, and so I end with some consideration of the implications and limitations of this kind of teaching.
Color preference as a function of background and illumination.

90 students with normal color vision reported color preferences for 10 3-in. X 5-in. Munsell papers with a Munsell value/chroma of 5/6 on white, gray, or black backgrounds with a 5-in. X 7-in. visual field exposed for 2-sec. intervals. Colors of short wave lengths tended to be preferred. Preferences for colors were less extreme when colors were viewed on a black background. Illumination intensity did not reliably affect color preferences. The importance of evaluating the extent of preference differences between colors adjacent in preference orders was discussed. Background brightness and illumination did not clearly resolve differences in preference orders found in earlier studies, and the possible influence of other stimulus variables was discussed.
"VARIABLES THAT INFLUENCE RANDOM-GENERATION": AN ALTERNATIVE HYPOTHESIS.

An alternative to Tune's memory hypothesis is proposed as the basis of the relative inability of Ss to generate a random sequence of responses. The memory hypothesis is inconsistent with results of studies showing decreased response stereotypy as a function of (a) time spent working on a task and (b) presence of potentially distracting extratask stimulation. Success at randomizing choices requires reduced awareness of previous responses and minimal sources of distraction to prevent Ss from “giving up the set.” Research implications of this attention-distraction hypothesis are discussed.
The Soil Degradation Paradox: Compromising Our Resources When We Need Them the Most

Soil degradation can take many forms, from erosion to salinization to the overall depletion of organic matter. The expression of soil degradation is broad, and so too are the causes. As the world population nears eight billion, and the environmental uncertainty of climate change becomes more manifest, the importance of our soil resources will only increase. The goal of this paper is to synthesize the catalysts of soil degradation and to highlight the interconnected nature of the social and economic causes of soil degradation. An expected three billion people will enter the middle class in the next 20 years; this will lead to an increased demand for meat, dairy products, and consequently grain. As populations rise so do the economic incentives to convert farmland to other purposes. With the intensity and frequency of droughts and flooding increasing, consumer confidence and the ability of crops to reach yield goals are also threatened. In a time of uncertainty, conservation measures are often the first to be sacrificed. In short, we are compromising our soil resources when we need them the most.
Syntheses of isomers of protoporphyrin-IX with permuted propionic side-chains

Total syntheses of hemins with permutations of the propionic side-chains in the C and D rings (compared with protoporphyrin-IX) are described. The products, 3, 2 and 4, are the dimethyl esters of protoporphyrins -I, -XI, and -XIV, respectively. They are of interest in connection with nmr studies designed to elucidate the structural features of the heme crevice in myoglobin and the effect of structural modifications of the C and D rings on the kinetics of heme-apoprotein reconstitutions, as well as studies of substrate specificity of the heme degradation enzyme, heme oxygenase.
Stable Expression and Regulation of a Rat Brain K+ Channel

: The Shaw-type K+ channel Kv3.1 was stably transfected in human embryonic kidney cells. Voltage dependence of activation, K+ permeability, sensitivity to external tetraethylammonium, and unitary conductance were similar to Kv 3.1 channels expressed transiently in Xenopus oocytes. Kv 3.1 channels appear to be regulated because the protein kinase C activator phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate decreased Kv 3.1 currents. Based on these results, we find that the stable expression of voltage-gated K+ channels in human embryonic kidney cells appears to be well suited for analysis of both biophysical and biochemical regulatory processes.
A general collapsing technique for three-dimensional algebraic grid generation

Abstract We present a general collapsing technique for the generation of a regular lexicographically ordered grid within a three-dimensional object by using multilinear algebraic coordinate transformations. The method is applied to the grid generation of a topologically complex region consisting of various three-dimensional objects. The local lexicographically ordered object grid is transformed, with an appropriate assembling procedure, into a global lexicographically ordered region grid. The method presented possesses simplicity and at the same time a sufficient degree of generality, a considerable amount of grid control, and a desirable degree of global grid uniformity to make it competitive.
Retention of nitrogen implanted into metals

Abstract Retention of nitrogen implanted into various kinds of metals (Al, V, Ti, Fe, Co, Ni, Zr, Nb, Mo, Ta, and W) was calculated by the dynamic-SASAMAL code assuming planer surface binding energy and diffusion toward the surface for nitrogen over the concentration of saturated nitride phase. As the value of surface binding energy ( E s ), the sum of the heat of sublimation of the metal ( H s ) and the heat of formation of the nitride ( H f ) times the nitrogen concentration ( C ) at the surface layer was used ( E s = H s + CH f ). The effects of values of H s , H f , and the displacement threshold energy on the retention were studied. The agreements between the calculated results and the experimental results obtained by NRA using 15 N(p, αγ) 12 C reaction were satisfactory for depth profiles and retention of nitrogen implanted into metals of Al, Ti, Ni, and Zr at a wide range of fluence from 6 × 10 16 to 6 × 10 17 ions cm −2 .
Abortive replication of adenovirus 2 in the temperature-sensitive hamster cell mutant tsAF8

Abstract A hamster cell line temperature sensitive for growth (tsAF8) supports adenovirus 2 replication at 33° but not at 39°; adenovirus 2 DNA does not replicate in cultures of tsAF8 infected at 39° [Nishimoto, T., Raskas, H. J., and Basilico, C. (1975)]. Viral DNA synthesis was analyzed in cultures shifted to 39° late in infection. Experiments with bromodeoxyuridine labeling demonstrated that, after shift to 39°, viral DNA can undergo at least two rounds of replication. Thus the altered function in tsAF8 does not prevent the initiation of individual rounds of replication. The mutant tsAF8 is a cell cycle mutant which can perform one additional round of cellular DNA replication at 39° after synchronization by hydroxyurea treatment at 33 [Burstin, S. J., Meiss, H. K., and Basilico, C. (1974)]. However cultures of tsAF8 synchronized by hydroxyurea treatment at 33° did not support viral DNA replication when infected at 39°. Analysis of revertants demonstrated that a single altered function restricts tsAF8 cell growth and prevents viral replication. All clones which had regained the ability to grow at 39° also reacquired the ability to support adenovirus 2 replication at 39°. Viral RNA synthesis was also investigated in tsAF8. In infections performed at 39° viral RNA synthesis was detected, although at a reduced rate as compared to 33°. The cytoplasmic viral RNA synthesized at 39° consisted primarily of early transcripts.
Bayesian Inference for Milling Stability Using a Random Walk Approach

Unstable cutting conditions limit the profitability in milling. While analytical and numerical approaches for estimating the limiting axial depth of cut as a function of spindle speed are available, they are generally deterministic in nature. Because uncertainty inherently exists, a Bayesian approach that uses a random walk strategy for establishing a stability model is implemented in this work. The stability boundary is modeled using random walks. The probability of the random walk being the true stability limit is then updated using experimental results. The stability test points are identified using a value of information method. Bayesian inference offers several advantages including the incorporation of uncertainty in the model using a probability distribution (rather than deterministic value), updating the probability distribution using new experimental results, and selecting the experiments such that the expected value added by performing the experiment is maximized. Validation of the Bayesian approach is presented. The experimental results show a convergence to the optimum machining parameters for milling a pocket without prior knowledge of the system dynamics.
Enzymes of serine metabolism in normal and neoplastic rat tissues

Enzymes involved in the pathway of de novo serine biosynthesis (L-phosphoserine aminotransferase) and in alternative pathways of serine utilization (L-serine hydroxymethyltransferase, L-serine dehydratase and L-serine aminotransferase) were assayed in normal adult and fetal rat tissues and in a range of transplantable rat tumors. Serine dehydratase and serine aminotransferase activities were essentially confined to normal adult liver and kidney, whereas phosphoserine aminotransferase and serine hydroxymethyltransferase activities showed a more ubiquitous tissue distribution. In particular, phosphoserine aminotransferase and serine hydroxymethyltransferase activities were appreciable in neoplastic tissues, in the absence of the other enzymes of serine utilization. The pattern of enzyme distribution suggests that the synthesis of serine de novo is metabolically coupled to its utilization for nucleotide biosynthesis in tumors of differing tissue origins.
Testing the accuracy of TreeMap and Brooks parsimony analyses of coevolutionary patterns using artificial associations

Abstract Brooks parsimony analysis and TreeMap are the two most commonly used methods and are tested using artificially evolved host–parasite associations with varying amounts of coevolutionary events occurring between the two “phylogenies.” The purpose is to test the precision with which each method recovers the true coevolutionary history. The reconstructions recovered by each method are compared against the original test case to determine how closely the reconstruction resembles the artificially created coevolutionary history. Brooks parsimony analysis is found to be consistently less prone to gross overestimation of coevolutionary events and misleading results. Brooks parsimony analysis performs better overall because it is more adept at dealing with host-switching events, both between and within lineages leading to widespread parasite taxa, which provides enough evidence for implementing Brooks parsimony analysis instead of TreeMap in coevolutionary studies.
Structures of the Bacillus subtilis Glutamine Synthetase Dodecamer Reveal Large Intersubunit Catalytic Conformational Changes Linked to a Unique Feedback Inhibition Mechanism.

Glutamine synthetase (GS), which catalyzes the production of glutamine, plays essential roles in nitrogen metabolism. There are two main bacterial GS isoenzymes, GSI-α and GSI-β. GSI-α enzymes, which have not been structurally characterized, are uniquely feedback-inhibited by Gln. To gain insight into GSI-α function, we performed biochemical and cellular studies and obtained structures for all GSI-α catalytic and regulatory states. GSI-α forms a massive 600-kDa dodecameric machine. Unlike other characterized GS, the Bacillus subtilis enzyme undergoes dramatic intersubunit conformational alterations during formation of the transition state. Remarkably, these changes are required for active site construction. Feedback inhibition arises from a hydrogen bond network between Gln, the catalytic glutamate, and the GSI-α-specific residue, Arg62, from an adjacent subunit. Notably, Arg62 must be ejected for proper active site reorganization. Consistent with these findings, an R62A mutation abrogates Gln feedback inhibition but does not affect catalysis. Thus, these data reveal a heretofore unseen restructuring of an enzyme active site that is coupled with an isoenzyme-specific regulatory mechanism. This GSI-α-specific regulatory network could be exploited for inhibitor design against Gram-positive pathogens.
Immunomodulatory Mediators in Platelet Transfusion Reactions

Our appreciation of the roles that platelets play in vascular biology is constantly expanding. One of the major roles of platelets is in initiating and accelerating immune responses. Platelet transfusion may be associated with adverse inflammatory outcomes manifested as fever, discomfort, tachycardia, and respiratory issues. This may in part be due to immune mediators either expressed by activated platelets or released into the platelet media during platelet storage. This review will highlight some more recent knowledge gained regarding the platelet storage lesion and potential mediators of platelet transfusion reactions.
A link between repetitive sequences and gene replication time

Genes display a wide range of replication times in S phase. In general, late replication is associated with transcriptionally repressive states and early replication with transcriptional competence. Rare examples of early-replicating repressive states have also been identified that are consistent with molecular evidence that repressive states are not all uniform in nature. Here we show that the replication times of over 4000 Drosophila genes correlate with the abundance of repetitive sequences in approximately 200-kb regions flanking the genes. In particular, Satellite-Related sequences (SRs) and the simple sequence repeats (SSRs) (CA)n and (ACTG)n were increasingly abundant in the regions flanking progressively later replicating genes, while (CATA)n repeats were more abundant around earlier replicating genes. These four sequences comprise less than 0.5% of the 'euchromatic genome' in Drosophila, yet they account for 5% of the variation of gene replication timing. Although the effect is not strong, it is broad: 99% of the genome is within the region of correlation of at least one of the above repeats. The role of SSRs and non-centromeric SRs in the genome is not known. We propose that SSRs and SRs foster transcriptionally repressive states throughout the genome in order to minimize spurious transcription.
Efficacy of a hydroxyl radical scavenger (VF 233) in preventing reperfusion injury in the isolated rabbit heart.

Abstract We tested the hypothesis that 3,4,5,-trihydroxybenzamidoxime (VF 233), a demonstrated hydroxyl radical scavenger and an effective Fe 3+ chelator, attenuates reperfusion injury and improves isovolumic left ventricular function. Eighteen isolated, perfused rabbit hearts with intracavitary balloons were subjected to normothermic, global ischemia until the initiation of ischemic contracture. Effects on the adenine nucleotide pool metabolites were determined by high-pressure liquid chromatography from right ventricular biopsy specimens before ischemia and at 15-minute intervals throughout reperfusion. In the experimental group (n = 9), a 5-mL bolus of 1 mol/L VF 233 was given immediately before reperfusion and followed by a continuous infusion (0.125 μmol/ min). Tin control group (n = 9) received the vehicle solution at identical times. Rabbits treated with VF 233 had significant improvement in left ventricular function (expressed as percent return of left ventricular peak developed pressure) within 15 minutes of reperfusion (55.0 ± 3.0 versus 66.2 ± 4.1; p
Morphology, sediments and structure of the Amirante Trench, Western Indian Ocean: implications for trench origin

Abstract The Amirante Trench is a 600 km long and up to 5200 m deep topographic depression whose origin has remained enigmatic. The trench contains > 1 km of undisturbed, ponded turbidites and mass-transport deposits that have been periodically modified by northward flowing contour currents of the Deep Western Boundary Current (DWBC). Morphologically, the trench and adjacent Amirante Ridge resemble an arcuate oceanic arc-trench system and some investigators have suggested that this complex represents some type of subduction zone. However, our analysis of bathymetric and structural data indicate that the trench is not a single, continuous arcuate feature, but is actually a compound feature composed of three discrete, essentially linear segments of differing structural orientations and probable sea-floor spreading origins. The northern segment (4°20′–6°20′S) trends NE (∼030°) and apparently represents a fracture zone or transform-fault trend related to sea-floor spreading in the Mascarene Basin during the Late Cretaceous. The central segment (6°20′–8°40′S) trends NNW (∼350°) and appears to represent a fracture-zone lineament that is parallel to fracture zones and lineaments created by the opening of the Somali Basin during the Late Jurassic and Early Cretaceous. However, Somali Basin crust apparently does not extend eastward as far as this portion of the trench, so the origin of this segment remains uncertain. The southern segment (8°40′–10°S) trends NW (∼310°) and may represent a tensional rift related to sea-floor spreading within the Mascarene Basin during the early Tertiary. Further, our data show no convincing evidence that any portion of this feature was a subduction zone at any time during its development. The data also essentially rule out an extraterrestrial impact origin for this region at the end of the Cretaceous.
Effect of platinum promoters on the removal of O from the surface of cobalt catalysts: A DFT study

Abstract Cobalt is one of the commonly used catalysts in Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis (FTS). Small amounts of Pt are often added to cobalt to prevent deactivation and improve activity [1] . Removal of oxygen from the cobalt surface is one of the final steps in FTS mechanism. We investigate the role of the surface platinum promoter in the removal of oxygen from the cobalt surface using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The activation barriers and transition states on both flat and stepped Co(0001) surfaces for the removal of oxygen from the cobalt surface with and without the presence of platinum were calculated using the Climbing Image Nudged Elastic Band (CI-NEB) method [2] , [3] , [4] . When Pt atoms are present on the surface, the activation barrier for the removal of O is reduced when compared to that on an un-promoted cobalt catalyst. The reduced barrier is attributed to the change in the electronic structure of the catalyst surface as evidenced from a shift in the d-band center and also a transfer of electrons from Co to Pt in agreement with an experimental study [5] . A micro-kinetic analysis shows that the turnover frequency (TOF) of oxygen removal for promoted Co surface increases when compared to that on un-promoted Co surface, with potential for further improvement. The results support the conjecture that surface Pt atoms helps reduce deactivation of cobalt catalyst by promoting oxygen removal from the surface.
Phospholipase D stabilizes HDM2 through an mTORC2/SGK1 pathway.

Abstract Phosphatidic acid (PA), the primary metabolite of the phospholipase D (PLD)-mediated hydrolysis of phosphatidylcholine, has been shown to act as a tumor promoting second messenger in many cancer cell lines. A key target of PA is the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), a serine–threonine kinase that has been widely implicated in cancer cell survival signals. In agreement with its ability to relay survival signals, it has been reported that both PLD and mTOR are required for the stabilization of the p53 E3 ubiquitin ligase human double minute 2 (HDM2) protein. Thus, by stabilizing HDM2, PLD and mTOR are able to counter the pro-apoptotic signaling mediated by p53 and promote survival. mTOR exists in at least two distinct complexes—mTORC1 and mTORC2—that are both dependent on PLD-generated PA. Although PLD and its metabolite PA are clearly implicated in the transduction of survival signals to mTOR, it is not yet apparent which of the two mTOR complexes is critical for the stabilization of HDM2. We report here that the PLD/mTOR-dependent stabilization of HDM2 involves mTORC2 and the AGC family kinase serum- and glucocorticoid-inducible kinase 1 (SGK1). This study reveals that mTORC2 is a critical target of PLD-mediated survival signals and identifies SGK1 as a downstream target of mTORC2 for the stabilization of HDM2.
Performance loss factors for optical communication through clear air turbulence

Atmospheric turbulence can significantly degrade the bit error rate performance of a free-space laser communication link. We describe an approach for calculating the average bit error rate of a direct detection binary optical communication link in clear-air atmospheric turbulence, and discuss strategies for optimizing system performance.
LPS-induced biomarkers in mice: a potential model for identifying insulin sensitizers.

Abstract The contribution of nutrient overload and associated inflammation to insulin resistance has highlighted several therapeutic targets including c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and S6 kinase (S6K). To investigate how a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-mediated inflammatory response may modulate pathways implicated in insulin resistance, we characterized the LPS-induced changes in key biomarkers. Administration of 0.06–4 mg/kg LPS to C57BL/6 mice stimulated increases in plasma levels of TNFα, IL-12p40, IL-6 and MCP-1 and in JNK activity as measured by phosphorylated c-Jun in fat. For the first time, we show that LPS induces S6K activity by up to 6.1-fold, as measured by the phosphorylation of S6 ribosomal protein in liver, and increases by up to 1.8-fold, plasma levels of the novel pro-inflammatory cytokine osteopontin which is implicated in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance. These novel findings suggest that LPS administration may form the basis of an acute in vivo pharmacodynamic model for therapies targeting multiple pathways implicated in insulin resistance.
Racial/Ethnic Differences in Religious Involvement in a Multi‐Ethnic Cohort of Midlife Women

We examined racial/ethnic differences in five measures of religious involvement (worship attendance, religious social support, importance of faith, comfort from religion, and frequency of prayer or meditation) among 2,690 women, age 42–52 years, participating in the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN). The women reported five racial/ethnic identifications: white, African American, Hispanic, Japanese, and Chinese. A large proportion of the Asian and Hispanic women were born outside the United States (Japanese 48 percent, Chinese 69.5 percent, Hispanic 89.1 percent). African-American and Hispanic women reported the highest levels of religious involvement. White and Japanese women reported similar levels of involvement for four measures. Compared to the white women, the Chinese women reported similar levels of worship attendance and religious social support, but lower levels for the other three measures. These racial/ethnic differences were not explained by differences in religious preference, acculturation, or sociodemographic factors. With the exception of worship attendance, in adjusted models, measures of acculturation were not significantly associated with religious involvement.
The critical constants of binary mixtures of certain perfluoro-compounds with alkanes

Abstract The critical temperature T c and critical pressure p c were measured at five compositions for each of five binary mixtures formed by propane with perfluoropropane, perfluoro- n -hexane, hexafluoroacetone, hexafluorobenzene, and trifluoroacetonitrile, and the two binary mixtures of n -hexane with perfluoro- n -hexane and hexafluorobenzene, and of perfluorocyclobutane with pentene-1. The composition dependences of T c and p c calculated by means of the modified theory of conformal solutions are in satisfactory agreement with the experimental results. In particular, the unusual S-shaped curve of p c against mole fraction for C 3 H 8 + CF 3 CN, predicted by the theory, is confirmed by the experimental results. The peculiar properties of mixtures of fluoro-compounds with inert solvents and the deviations from the harmonic mean rule for e 11 are discussed. Additionally, the densities of liquid (CF 3 ) 2 CO and the densities and vapor pressures of CF 3 CN were determined at reduced temperatures from about 0.6 to 1.
Pilot Tests of Slurries for In Situ Remediation of Pyrite Weathering Products

The efficiency of three slurries was tested for treating of acidity caused by pyrite weathering. Slurries of BauxsolTM, powdered limestone, and brucite [Mg(OH)2] were sprayed onto 10-ton masses of pyritic aggregate, and the acidity and sulfate concentrations of outflows were monitored for 21.5 months. After addition in identical procedures, neutralization of the outflow to a pH of above 6 was achieved by Bauxsol for about 1 day, by limestone for 4 days, and by Mg(OH)2 for the 652 days of the testing. Limestone control of pH was limited by armoring of the CaCO3 by gypsum [CaSO4·2H2O] and by restricting of water flow to channels so that most of this slurry remained unreacted. Channels were not evident in the Mg(OH)2-treated aggregate. With the limestone and Mg(OH)2 slurries, sulfate concentrations were controlled by crystallization of gypsum, or at higher concentration of sulfate by hexahydrite [MgSO4⋅6H2O]. The limestone slurry limited sulfate concentration to approximately 25 percent less than that occurring with the Mg(OH)2 slurry. An ideal slurry might include Mg(OH)2 for neutralization, limestone for limiting sulfate concentration, and other components to alter rheological behavior. Thixotropic behavior that favors initial dispersion of the slurry solids yet reduces loss in outwash and also limits channelization of water flow is best.
Fact or Fiction? A Sensemaking Perspective on the Reality Behind Executives' Perceptions of IT Business Value

Author(s): Tallon, PP; Kraemer, KL | Abstract: Although research has made significant strides in recent years in evaluating the performance impacts from information technology (IT), a dearth of easily accessible objective measures, particularly at the process level, continues to limit IT research. Suggestions that researchers use perceptual measures instead are met with claims that the biased nature of perceptions renders them imperfect proxies for the true extent of IT impacts. In this paper, we use sensemaking theory to explore this claim. We outline a model relating what executives notice about process-level IT impacts with sensemaking-based perceptions of IT impacts at the firm level, and firm performance as the ultimate arbiter of perceptual accuracy. Estimating the model with survey data from executives in 196 firms, we find that executives' perceptions are more fact than fiction. While perceptions are not a perfect proxy for hard-to-find objective measures, perceptual accuracy should stimulate greater consideration of executives' perceptions in future IT business value research. © 2007 M.E. Sharpe, Inc.
Biomechanical Comparison of Tibial Inlay Versus Transtibial Techniques for Posterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Analysis of Knee Kinematics and Graft In Situ Forces

Background: The tibial inlay technique for posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction has been proposed to provide a more anatomic reconstruction because it eliminates the sharp turn in the graft as it exits the proximal margin of the tibial tunnel in the transtibial technique.Hypothesis: Reconstruction of the posterior cruciate ligament using the tibial inlay technique would more closely restore intact knee kinematics and in situ forces in the posterior cruciate ligament than would reconstruction using the transtibial technique.Methods: Ten human cadaveric knees were tested in a controlled laboratory study. A robotic/universal force-moment sensor testing system was used to apply a 134-N posterior tibial load at 5 knee flexion angles: 0o, 30o, 60o, 90o, and 120o. Four knee conditions were tested: intact, posterior cruciate ligament–deficient, and the single-bundle tibial inlay reconstruction and transtibial posterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.Results: Both reconstruction techniques restored posteri...
Single versus multiple doses of antibiotic prophylaxis in limb fracture surgery

Background There is no consensus with regard to optimum prophylactic antibiotic regimen in orthopaedic fracture surgery. Objective A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to determine if multiple-dose perioperative antibiotic prophylaxis is more effective than a single preoperative dose in the prevention of surgical wound infection in patients undergoing operative treatment of low-energy closed fractures. Data resources Medline, Medline in Process and other non-indexed citations, Embase, Cochrane database of systematic reviews and conference proceedings were searched. Review methods Studies were included if they were randomized or quasi-randomized trials comparing the results of a single antibiotic prophylaxis versus multiple doses of the same antibiotic in patients undergoing surgical fixation of closed fractures. Results Four studies were found to meet the searching criteria. The mean score for quality assessment of these studies was 16 (8–24 points). Only two out of four studies had detailed analysable data and therefore were included in the final analysis. 921 patients were pooled using a random-effects model. Compared to multiple-dose prophylaxis, administration of a single preoperative dose demonstrated no significant difference regarding the overall surgical site infection rate (risk ratio (RR) = 0.3, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.07–1.25). Multiple-dose antibiotic prophylaxis is marginally more effective than single dose in reducing the incidence of deep surgical wound infection (risk ratio: 0.13, 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.99). Conclusion There is lack of definite evidence that multiple-dose antibiotic prophylaxis is superior to single preoperative dose in low-energy closed fracture surgery.
Neutron Star Structure and the Neutron Radius of 208Pb

We study relationships between the neutron-rich skin of a heavy nucleus and the properties of neutron-star crusts. Relativistic effective field theories with a thicker neutron skin in ${}^{208}\mathrm{Pb}$ have a larger electron fraction and a lower liquid-to-solid transition density for neutron-rich matter. These properties are determined by the density dependence of the symmetry energy which we vary by adding nonlinear couplings between isoscalar and isovector mesons. An accurate measurement of the neutron radius in ${}^{208}\mathrm{Pb}$---via parity violating electron scattering---may have important implications for the structure of the crust of neutron stars.
Adaptive Multiple Metrics Routing Protocols for Heterogeneous Multi-Hop Wireless Networks

The calculation of path cost is a critical component of route discovery for network routing. The criteria used to represent path cost guides resource consumption in the network. In this paper, we describe our approach, a set of protocols based on our Multiple Metrics Routing Protocol (MMRP) for integrating hop count, energy consumption, and traffic load into the path cost calculation for ad hoc or multihop-cellular networks. Our initial aim is to select among multiple disjoint routes in order to maintain a low path cost, in terms of energy consumption and delay, without depleting resources at popular intermediate nodes. One extension of MMRP removes the constraint that only disjoint paths are considered and enables discovery of more optimal routes. A second extension includes adaptive adjustment of cost metrics to support device classification (e.g., energy capacity, bandwidth) in heterogeneous networks. We illustrate our approach with a simple example, followed by extensive simulation analysis. Results indicate that proper combination of multiple metrics for calculating path costs results in improved performance and lower overall system resource consumption as compared to AODV or energy efficient routing protocols.
INNOVATIONS IN LONG-RANGE TRANSPORTATION PLANNING: OBSERVATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS

In 1997, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issues and concerns facing metropolitan planning organizations (MPOs) in Florida, the Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) thoroughly reviewed the long-range transportation plans of each of the state's 25 MPOs. The study made some substantial recommendations about technical approach and structure for improvements to MPO long-range plans. In 2002, CUTR again reviewed the state's 25 MPO long-range transportation plans, following completion of the subsequent update cycle. The recent updates of Florida's 25 MPO long-range plans are compared with the versions completed 3 to 5 years earlier. There has been much innovation and change in long-range transportation-planning practice across the state. These findings will be of interest to MPOs nationwide.
Observations of the horizontal velocity field surrounding sunspots

During the summer and fall of 1971, Doppler spectroheliograms were obtained for several sunspots located near the solar limb. These observations confirm a previous result based on the study of only a few sunspots that in the plage-free photosphere surrounding sunspots the spatially-averaged, horizontal flow tends to be outward at 0.5–1.0 km s−1 for distances typically 10000–20000 km beyond the outer boundary of the penumbra. It is suggested that these material motions are the means by which small-scale fragments of magnetic flux are carried away from sunspots.
The Ocular Complications of Smallpox and Smallpox Immunization

Although smallpox was eradicated worldwide, concerns have been raised about the use of smallpox as a biological weapon. Plans are being considered for smallpox immunization in the United States. Variola virus, the cause of smallpox, and vaccinia virus, used in smallpox immunization, are both orthopoxviruses that are associated with serious ocular complications, including eyelid and conjunctival infection, corneal ulceration, disciform keratitis, iritis, optic neuritis, and blindness. About 5% to 9% of patients with smallpox develop ocular complications, and case-fatality rates reach 20% to 35% among unvaccinated individuals. About 10 to 20 patients develop ocular complications per 1 million smallpox immunizations, usually through autoinoculation, in which the patient transfers vaccinia from the immunization site to the eye. The risk of ocular vaccinia infection may be reduced by instructing patients and individuals in close contact with the vaccinee to wash their hands often and avoid touching the immunization site and their eyes. Topical antiviral therapy, topical steroids, and topical and oral antibiotics have been used to reduce the ocular complications of smallpox immunization. In contrast, there has been little experience with the use of these therapies for the ocular complications of smallpox.
The Quantitative Safety Assessment for Safety-Critical Software

The software fault failure rate bound is discussed and generalized for different reliability growth models. The fault introduction during testing and the fault removal efficiency are modeled to relax the two common assumptions made in software reliability models. Three approaches are introduced for the fault content estimation, and thus they are applied to software coverage estimation. A three-state non-homogenous Markov model is constructed for software safety assessment. The two most important metrics for safety assessment, steady state safety and MTTUF, are estimated using the three-state Markov model. A case study is conducted to verify the theory proposed in the paper
Pulmonary Vein Stenosis with Down Syndrome: A Rare and Frequently Fatal Cause of Pulmonary Hypertension in Infants and Children

Down syndrome (DS) patients are prone to pulmonary hypertension (PHTN) due to various cardiopulmonary causes. However, the association of DS with pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) is not adequately described. We illustrate three cases from our center and an additional 13 cases from an extensive review of the literature of DS patients with PHTN and PVS. In DS patients PVS is rare, they were diagnosed at a young age (<7.2 months), had high mean pulmonary artery pressures (38 mm Hg), and had rapid progression of the stenosis with an increased mortality (91%) in patients with two or more vein involvement. In DS patients, PVS may be missed by echocardiography; thus, any DS patients with persistent PHTN should undergo cardiac catheterization to assess hemodynamics and to evaluate all four pulmonary veins.
Selective etching of InGaAs/InP substrates from II-VI multilayer heterostructures

Typically, II–VI heterostructures and devices are grown on commercially available III–V substrates. Often these substrates have strong absorption at the emission energy of the epitaxial layer, a problem when transmission measurements are required, as well as for some device applications. By removing the epilayers from the substrate the layer properties can be examined unhindered by the presence of the substrate. In this paper we present a selective etching technique for the removal of InGaAs/InP substrates from ZnMgCdSe-based epitaxial structures. Characterization of the materials after etching indicated the material is not damaged in the etching process. (© 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Cable's impact on use of other news media

A motivational perspective on media use habits is used to examine the effects of cable television on use of other media. Evidence from the Columbus, Ohio, Qube market suggests that cable both replaces and supplements preexisting media habits.
Role of Budesonide Inhalation Suspension in Children with Asthma

OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the role of budesonide inhalation suspension (BIS) in the treatment of children with asthma.DATA SOURCES:Literature identified through Medline (1966–November 2000) and references obtained from selected articles. Search terms included budesonide and asthma.DATA SYNTHESIS:Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects approximately 4.8 million children in the US. By reducing inflammation, corticosteroids decrease symptoms and improve lung function. As the first nebulized corticosteroid, BIS offers an important treatment option for children with persistent asthma.CONCLUSIONS:BIS is effective in reducing symptoms and improving lung function in children with asthma. It should be used in children ages 1–8 years with moderate to severe persistent asthma who are unable to effectively use a metered-dose inhaler with or without a spacer or a dry-powder inhaler.
Gender differences in irritable bowel syndrome

In the United States and other Western cultures, a greater number of women seek health care services for symptoms of functional pain disorders, including irritable bowel syndrome, than men. Recent clinical trials indicate that gender differences in responsiveness to drug therapy also occur. Several lines of inquiry have focused on explaining this gender-related difference due to the higher prevalence of these disorders in women. Evidence of a physiologic component is based on gender differences in gastrointestinal transit time, visceral sensitivity, central nervous system pain processing, and specific effects of estrogen and progesterone on gut function. Additional factors may play a role, including gender-related differences in neuroendocrine, autonomic nervous system, and stress reactivity, which are related to bowel function and pain. However, the link between these measures and gut motility or sensitivity remains to be clarified. Psychological characteristics, including somatization, depression, and anxiety as well as a history of sexual abuse, may also contribute to gender-related differences in the prevalence of irritable bowel syndrome. Although gender differences in the therapeutic benefit of serotonergic agents have been observed, less is known about potential differences in responsiveness to nondrug therapies for irritable bowel syndrome.
The Veterans Affairs research program: scientific and clinical excellence relevant to veterans' healthcare needs.

002-9610/05/$ – see front matter © 2005 Excerpta Medica Inc. All rights reserv oi:10.1016/j.amjsurg.2005.06.040 ouncil of Chiefs to meet and discuss issues germane to linical care, and to present, discuss, and publish scientific esearch. Originally chartered in 1967 under the leadership f Lloyd Rogers, M.D., the first president of the AVAS, resentations are often done by younger investigators such s residents, fellows, and students, and as such, the assocition has been an excellent platform for educational opporunities for young investigators. Awards, which recognize utstanding resident presentations, originated in 1972 and everal are given each year. My association with the Department of Veterans Affairs www.va.gov/) began with three electives done at the Long each VA Medical Center more than 25 years ago. Rotaions in neurosurgery, gastroenterology, and thoracic surery convinced me that the VA was an excellent source of nteresting patients with whom I enjoyed my interactions as senior medical student. There were also excellent role odels, including Dr. Edward Stemmer, President of the VAS in 1979–80, the same year in which I did my lectives. He is Professor of Thoracic Surgery at the Uniersity of California-Irvine. Dr. Stemmer’s lectures to us as oth junior and senior medical students were stimulating nd interesting, often with a wonderful historic flavor. I was ble to participate in several complex thoracic and neurourgical cases as a senior student, often first assisting, which hrilled me to no end. Dr. Stemmer was kind enough to rite a letter of recommendation for my surgical residency or which I will be forever grateful. I then had the good ortune to be assigned to the VA hospital on July 1st of my ntern year and was actually paid from the US Treasury for hat year, which essentially began my formal 25-year relaionship with the Department of Veterans Affairs, then nown as the Veterans Administration. My first operation occurred July 2nd, the second day of y internship, removing an abscessed vein with Dr. Don
Catharsis: A Means of Reducing Elementary School Students' Aggressive Behaviors?

Cathartic procedures, which are based on the hypothesis that acts of aggression will reduce the incidence of further agression, were questioned as to their effectiveness in dealing with elementary school children's aggressive behaviors. Research findings suggest that such techniques may tend to increase rather than decrease student aggressiveness. It was therefore concluded that a re-evaluation of the catharsis theory and the procedures or practices resulting from it is needed in our elementary schools. Several alternative procedures for reducing the occurrence of aggressive behaviors were presented for the reader to consider and evaluate in light of such recent findings.