cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Calibration and Evaluation of Subsurface Drainage Component of RZWQM V.2.5

This study was designed to calibrate and evaluate the subsurface drain flow component of the Root Zone Water Quality Model (RZWQM ; Version 2.5) for four tillage-systems : chisel plow (CP), moldboard plow (MB), no-tillage (NT), and ridge-tillage (RT). Measured subsurface drain flow data for 1990 was used for model calibration. Main parameters calibrated were lateral saturated hydraulic conductivity, and effective porosity. Subsurface drain flow predictions were made using calibrated parameters and compared with measured subsurface drain flows for 1991 and 1992. Measured subsurface drain flow data for all 3 yrs was obtained from the Nashua Water Quality Site in Iowa. The model, in general, showed a good agreement between measured and predicted subsurface drain flow values, although discrepancies existed for several days of a given year. Coefficients of determination calculated for predicted vs. measured daily subsurface drain flows ranged from 0.51 to 0.68 for 1990, 0.70 to 0.78 for 1991, and 0.54 to 0.69 for 1992. Simulated tillage effect on subsurface drain flows for 1991 and 1992 were consistent with those for calibrated year 1990 (maximum subsurface drain flow was observed under NT and minimum under MB). However, observed tillage effects varied from year to year, indicating a change in soil hydraulic properties, e.g., macroporosity. Other factors that could have caused the discrepancies between measured and simulated subsurface drain flows were : groundwater flux due to natural gradient, deep seepage, inaccuracies involved in the estimation of breakpoint rainfall data, and spatial variability in soil properties.
Simulating options for carbon sequestration through improved management of a lowland tropical rainforest

The growing evidence that increased levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere are related to global warming has prompted several countries to consider options for reducing and offsetting current carbon dioxide emissions. Opportunities for carbon sequestration with forestry activities have been analysed in detail primarily in industrialized nations, mainly because of data availability. This article presents a model that simulates a tropical forest stand in its role as a source of income and as a carbon store, and quantifies the potential for and cost-effectiveness of carbon sequestration through modifications of management practices. Results suggest that financing modifications of forestry practices may achieve net carbon sequestration in a relatively cost-effective way. Tropical countries with extensive forest resources may be in a position to offer cost-effective net carbon sequestration options.
Young Children's Learning of Foreign Language Vocabulary: A Sentence Variation of the Keyword Method.

Abstract The keyword method has been found to facilitate adults' foreign language vocabulary learning. An important ingredient of the method, as originally conceived, is the construction of interactive visual images by the learner. Recent research has indicated that younger elementary school children are not adept at generating such visual images. Consequently, a self-generated sentence variation of the keyword method was devised for the present study. Both second- and fifth-grade students were found to experience large foreign language vocabulary gains when applying the sentence variation. Implications of these results, vis-a-vis both basic and applied research questions, are discussed.
THE EFFECT OF GROWTH HORMONE UPON LIVER AND KIDNEY D-AMINO ACID OXIDASE AND UPON MUSCLE SUCCINIC ACID DEHYDROGENASE

Since enzymes are proteins, and may indeed constitute a major part of the protein in cells (Sumner and Somers, 1947) several relationships between them and the growth hormone are conceivable. As catalysts, tissue enzymes might be chemical mediators through which certain effects of the hormone are produced; as proteins, they may simply participate in any increase of body protein. In the case of bone phosphatase, marked changes in concentration which are readily correlated with known effects of the growth hormone on skeletal development are observed after hypophysectomy and after replacement therapy, and a functional relationship is indicated (Mathies and Gaebler, 1949). The concentrations of the two enzymes discussed in this paper do not change during induced growth, so there is no indication of a relationship to the growth hormone differing from that of other tissue proteins.
Chemical Composition of Primary Cosmic Rays at 10 15 eV

An analysis of the nuclear-active particle component of extensive air showers has yielded evidence that the chemical composition of primary cosmic rays at ${10}^{15}$ eV cannot consist solely of protons or solely of very heavy nuclei. The data are consistent with the mixed composition observed at lower energy (\ensuremath{\sim}${10}^{11}$ eV).
Microsomal enzyme activities, superoxide production, and antioxidant defenses in ribbed mussels (Geukensia demissa) and wedge clams (Rangia cuneata)

Abstract 1. 1. Microsomes of hepatopancreae from the ribbed mussel, Geukensia demissa , and the wedge clam, Rangia cuneata , were examined for their ability to catalyze the reduction/oxidation cycling of xenobiotics, particularly paraquat, and subsequently stimulate superoxide anion (O − 2 ) production. 2. 2. Levels of the microsomal electron transport components cytochrome P-450, cytochrome b 5 , NADH-cytochrome c reductase, and NADPH-cytochrome c reductase were similar in both bivalves and like those seen in other species of molluscs. 3. 3. in vitro studies indicated a dose-dependent increase in the rate of O − 2 generated in microsomal fractions incubated with paraquat; the highest concentration of paraquat employed (4 mM) elicited an 81% increase in cytochrome c reduction in mussels and a 135% increase in clams. In both species, cytochrome c reduction was inhibited by the addition of exogenous superoxide dismutase (SOD). 4. 4. Activities of SOD and catalase and the concentration of reduced glutathione were determined in the hepatopancreas of these bivalves. Similar values for these antioxidants were observed in both species.
Clinical, functional, and radiographic outcomes following total knee arthroplasty with patient-specific instrumentation, computer-assisted surgery, and manual instrumentation: a short-term follow-up study

Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical, functional, and radiographic outcomes following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) performed with patient-specific instrumentation (PSI), computer-assisted surgery (CAS), and manual instruments at short-term follow-up.
TU-FF-A3-04: Empirical Investigation of 3D Intrafraction Motion Management Using a Generalized Methodology for Tracking Translating, Rotating and Deforming Targets

Purpose: Real‐time tracking of tumor motion is a highly promising approach for intrafraction motion management in thoracic and abdominal cancerradiotherapy. We investigate the geometric and dosimetric impact of a generalized methodology for conformal and IMRT‐based radiation delivery to translating, rotating and deforming targets. Materials and Methods: The methodology is based on the concept of “relocation vectors”, which correlate instantaneous target position to each point on the treatment aperture(s), throughout the entire respiratory cycle. These vectors are determined during 4D treatment planning by combining instantaneous target position information, obtained from a real‐time position‐monitoring (RPM) system, with concurrently acquired 4DCT. The resulting plan comprises multiple “control points”. For each point, a set of MLC leaf positions is defined so as to conform to the instantaneous shape of the target and deliver the desired fluence. The methodology is, therefore, independent of the nature of target motion. During dose delivery, real‐time RPM data are used to update the relocation vectors so as to dynamically account for changes target shape/position relative to the shape/position observed in the planning stage. Initial studies were performed to demonstrate tracking of linear and elliptical motion. A laboratory system was designed and optical measurements of tracking accuracy and system latency were obtained. The methodology was subsequently tested on a moving lung phantom placed under a clinical linac, and dosimetric measurements were performed using a 2D ion‐chamber array. Results: Tracking accuracy (without using any predictive algorithm) was observed to be ∼1.25 mm for motion parallel to MLC leaf travel. For motion perpendicular to leaf travel, accuracy was significantly lower. Dosimetric measurements indicate that tracking achieves efficient dose delivery to the target and, simultaneously, significant dose reduction in surrounding regions. Conclusions: We have developed a robust, universal tracking methodology to manage 3D intrafraction motion. This work was partially supported by Varian.
Marathon Training and Immune Function

Many components of the immune system exhibit adverse change after marathon-type exertion. These immune changes occur in several compartments of the immune system and body (e.g. the skin, upper respiratory tract mucosal tissue, lung, peritoneal cavity, blood and muscle). Of all immune cells, natural killer (NK) cells, neutrophils and macrophages (of the innate immune system) exhibit the greatest changes in response to marathon competition, both in terms of numbers and function. Many mechanisms appear to be involved, including exercise-induced changes in stress hormone and cytokine concentrations, body temperature changes, increases in blood flow and dehydration. During this 'open window' of immune dysfunction (which may last between 3 and 72 hours, depending on the immune measure), viruses and bacteria may gain a foothold, increasing the risk of subclinical and clinical infection. Of the various nutritional and pharmacological countermeasures to marathon-induced immune perturbations that have been evaluated thus far, ingestion of carbohydrate beverages during intense and prolonged exercise has emerged as the most effective. However, carbohydrate ingestion during a marathon attenuates increases in plasma cytokines and stress hormones, but is largely ineffective against changes in other immune components including suppression of NK and T-cell function, and salivary IgA output. Other countermeasures, such as glutamine, antioxidant supplements and ibuprofen, have had disappointing results and thus the search for companion agents to carbohydrate continues.
Selective Denervation of the Musculus pectoralis Muscle in the Chicken

A surgical method for selective denervation was developed to facilitate investigations about the postmortem characteristics of denervated pectoralis muscles in chickens, Musculus (M.) pectoralis. The M. pectoralis was denervated in anesthetized chickens unilaterally or bilaterally by excising a 1-cm section of the nervus pectoralis as it branched from the N. medianoulnaris in the brachial plexus. Denervation resulted in significant (P less than .01) and consistent depression in the relative weight of M. pectoralis from the wk 2 through 17 postoperative. The relative weight of the functionally antagonistic M. supracoracoideus was unaffected by ipsilateral denervation of the M. pectoralis. The M. coracobrachialis acts in synergism with the M. pectoralis and displayed significant muscle atrophy at 4, 6, 8 and 17 wk postoperative in treatment groups where the ipsilateral M. pectoralis was denervated. Only the M. pectoralis displayed histological signs of denervation in transverse cryostat sections. Denervated tissue was characterized by atrophic and rounded muscle-fiber profiles, an increase in the endomysial and perimysial connective-tissue spaces, and leucocytes within degenerative perimysial nerves from 2 through 17 wk postoperative. Signs of denervation were distributed throughout seven zones sampled from the M. pectoralis. This study indicated that selective denervation of the M. pectoralis was achieved and that postoperative histology was necessary to accurately assess denervation.
On the anti-Kekulé number and odd cycle transversal of regular graphs

Let G be a graph with a perfect matching. The anti-Kekule number is the smallest number of edges of G whose removal will result in a connected subgraph with no perfect matching. In this note, we show that, if G is a cyclically (r+1)-edge-connected r-regular graph (r>=3) of even order, then either the anti-Kekule number of G is at least r+1, or G is not bipartite, and the smallest odd cycle transversal of G has at most r edges. For cubic graphs, the bound of the anti-Kekule number is optimal. Our result generalizes previous results on anti-Kekule numbers of fullerenes obtained by Kutnar et al. [K. Kutnar, J. Sedlar, D. Vukicevic, On the anti-Kekule number of leapfrog fullerenes, J. Math. Chem. 45 (2009) 431-441.] and Yang et al. [Q. Yang, D. Ye, H. Zhang, Y. Lin, On the anti-Kekule number of fullerenes, MATCH Commun. Math. Comput. Chem. 67 (2) (2012) 281-288].
Sarcopenia and diabetes: two sides of the same coin

on muscle mass, strength, and functional capacity in an older population. The authors demonstrated that skeletal muscle mass, leg muscle strength, and functional capacity are reduced in older patients with type 2 diabetes, when compared with age-matched normoglycemic controls. This study contributes significantly to improving our knowledge about the relationship between diabetes and sarcopenia, an area that remains substantially poorly studied. So far, few observational studies have reported lower muscle strength among older men with type 2 diabetes compared with healthy controls. Interestingly, Park and colleagues 2 showed that older subjects with type 2 diabetes have a 30% greater decline over 3 years in leg muscle strength compared with healthy age-matched controls. Furthermore, the impairment in muscle strength observed among older subjects with diabetes has been correlated with intramuscular fat storage, which is almost 3
Alleviating stuttering with pharmacological interventions

Stuttering is a speech disorder characterised by frequent prolongations, repetitions or blocks of spoken sounds and/or syllables. Stuttering is very common and is classified by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders -- Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) as an Axis I disorder. In spite of this, stuttering treatment is sporadically addressed by a practicing physician, especially in the US. Much has recently been learned of the neurophysiological basis of this disorder, which has provided insight into novel treatment strategies, thus helping to guide the practising clinician. Stuttering is likely to be associated, at least in part, to dopamine hyperactivity in the brain. Novel dopamine antagonists such as risperidone and olanzapine, have recently been shown to improve the symptoms of stuttering providing a strong foundation for physicians to more effectively treat this disorder.
Current therapy for heart failure

Abstract The goals of therapy for heart failure are to improve quality of life and to prolong life. The former requires interventions that can correct the hemodynamic abnormality and associated fluid retention and neurohormonal stimulation that accompany the ventricular muscle dysfunction. The latter requires interventions that can moderate loading conditions on the heart and thus interrupt the cycle that contributes to progression of the syndrome. Rational use of diuretics, vasodilators, inotropic drugs, and antiarrhythmic drugs can supplement dietary and activity control measures to have a favorable effect on both quality and duration of life. Further understanding of the mechanisms of progression of myocardial dysfunction may lead to the development of more effective therapeutic approaches.
Leukotriene synthesis by isolated perinatal ovine intrapulmonary vessels correlates with age-related changes in 5-lipoxygenase protein

Leukotrienes (LT) are potent vasoconstrictors in the pulmonary circulation. We have investigated the synthesis of LTC4 by intrapulmonary arteries and veins of perinatal lambs. Paired vessels of near-term fetal 146 +/- 2- and 2- to 7-day-old newborn lambs (each n = 7), were incubated for 10 min at 37 degrees C in baseline, with 1 mumol/L A32187 or 0.1 mmol/L arachidonic acid. Produced leukotriene C4 was assayed from media by ELISA. Baseline production of leukotriene (ng/mg tissue, means +/- SEM) by vessels for arteries was 0.006 +/- 0.001 and 0.059 +/- 0.009 for fetus and newborn, respectively. In veins, the values were 0.013 +/- 0.003 and 0.073 +/- 0.007 for fetus and newborn, respectively. On stimulation with the calcium ionophore A23187, production by arteries increased 25-fold in the fetus, but 4-fold in the newborn. The corresponding values for stimulated veins were 37-fold and 9-fold in fetus and newborn, respectively. Generally, production by veins was greater than production by the matching arteries. In all instances, the fetal vessels produced less leukotrienes than the newborn vessels. Western analysis of stimulated and unstimulated vessel membrane protein showed greater expression of 5-lipoxygenase in veins than in arteries (P < 0.05). Our data show that veins produce more LTC4 due to greater expression of 5-lipoxygenase in the vessels and thus suggest that veins of perinatal lamb lungs may be more susceptible to LT-induced vasoreactivity in the perinatal pulmonary circulation. We speculate that a higher production of LTC4 by fetal veins may be necessary to maintain a high venous tone in fetal lungs.
Robustness of logical topology mapping algorithms for survivability against multiple failures in an IP-over-WDM optical network

The survivable logical topology mapping (SLTM) problem in an IP-over-WDM optical network is to map each link (u, v) in the logical topology G L (at the IP layer) into a lightpath between the nodes u and v in the physical topology G P (at the optical layer) such that failure of a physical link does not cause the logical topology to become disconnected. It is assumed that both the physical and logical topologies are 2-edge connected. There are two lines of approach for the study of the SLTM problem. One approach uses Integer Linear Programming formulations. The main drawback with this approach is the use of exponential number of constraints, one for each cutset in G L . Moreover, it does not provide insight into the solution when survivability against multiple physical failures is required. The other approach, called the structural approach, uses graph theory and was pioneered by Kurant and Thiran and further generalized by us. In this paper we first present a generalized algorithmic framework for the SLTM problem. This framework includes several other frameworks considered in earlier works as special cases. We then define the concept of robustness of a mapping algorithm which captures the ability of the algorithm to provide survivability against multiple physical failures. This is similar to the concept of fault coverage used in hardware/software testing. We analyse the different frameworks for their robustness property. Using simulations, we demonstrate that even when an algorithm cannot be guaranteed to provide survivability against multiple failures, its robustness could be very high. The work also provides a basis for the design of survivability mapping algorithms when special classes of failures such as SRLG failures are to be protected against.
Strategic decision processes in matrix organizations

Abstract The matrix structure was developed to facilitate adaptiveness for organizations operation in uncertain environments. In the management literature one area of controversy is the appropriate approach to strategic decision-making for organizations operating in this type of environment. This paper reports the results of a study examining the relative effectiveness of the rational-analytic and incremental approaches to strategic decision-making. Analyses of data from a sample of 27 matrix organizations indicate that strategic decision processes which are high in comprehensiveness (rational-analytic) produce more favorable strategic results than processes which are more incremental in nature. Implications of these findings to theory development and management are discussed.
Synthesis and thermal analysis of crosslinked imidazolium-containing polyester networks prepared by Michael addition polymerization

Abstract Several new covalently crosslinked imidazolium-containing polyester networks were prepared by Michael addition polymerization to probe how ionic functionality might affect thermal properties such as glass transition temperature (Tg) and thermal decomposition (Td5%). A structure–activity relationship was investigated involving a variation of the methylene spacer and the counteranion of the acetoacetate precursors. Analysis of Tg by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) indicated that a longer methylene spacer (n = 6 versus 2) resulted in lower Tg values due to increased chain mobility. It was also discovered that the larger the counteranion, the lower the T g ( B r − >N O 3 − ≈ B F 4 − >C F 3 C O 2 − >NT f 2 − ) . Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicated that the thermal stability of the polyesters was inversely related to the basicity of the counteranion used, following the trend: ( NT f 2 − >B F 4 − >N O 3 − >B r − ) . The exception was the trifluoroacetate-containing polyester, which exhibited the lowest thermal stability.
The social structure of microbial community involved in colonization resistance

It is well established that host-associated microbial communities can interfere with the colonization and establishment of microbes of foreign origins, a phenomenon often referred to as bacterial interference or colonization resistance. However, due to the complexity of the indigenous microbiota, it has been extremely difficult to elucidate the community colonization resistance mechanisms and identify the bacterial species involved. In a recent study, we have established an in vitro mice oral microbial community (O-mix) and demonstrated its colonization resistance against an Escherichia coli strain of mice gut origin. In this study, we further analyzed the community structure of the O-mix by using a dilution/regrowth approach and identified the bacterial species involved in colonization resistance against E. coli. Our results revealed that, within the O-mix there were three different types of bacterial species forming unique social structure. They act as ‘Sensor', ‘Mediator' and ‘Killer', respectively, and have coordinated roles in initiating the antagonistic action and preventing the integration of E. coli. The functional role of each identified bacterial species was further confirmed by E. coli-specific responsiveness of the synthetic communities composed of different combination of the identified players. The study reveals for the first time the sophisticated structural and functional organization of a colonization resistance pathway within a microbial community. Furthermore, our results emphasize the importance of ‘Facilitation' or positive interactions in the development of community-level functions, such as colonization resistance.
Lysine and Methionine Needs of Growing Egg-Type Pullets

Two studies have been conducted with growing egg-production type pullets to examine the amino acid needs during the period of 6 to 22 weeks of age as it relates to hen-housed performance. Using a l...
A comprehensive examination of the compass rose pattern in futures markets

This article provides a comprehensive examination of the existence, or the lack thereof, of the compass rose pattern in futures markets. The results from 118 futures contracts traded on 31 futures exchanges in 15 countries show that the compass rose pattern exists only in some futures contracts, in contrast to the robust existence among stocks documented by Crack and Ledoit (1996) and Chen (1997). Not all contracts on the same exchange exhibit this pattern. However, the pattern appears to be concentrated in some sectors. Although this evidence suggests that effective tick sizes that are different among contracts may be the determining factor for the existence of the pattern, contradicting evidence also suggests that there are other yet-to-be-identified determinants at work. Furthermore, whereas the pattern is absent in the daily returns of primary stock index futures contracts such as the Major Market Index (MMI), it is very easily observable in the intraday returns of the same futures contract. The elusiveness of the pattern is further demonstrated in the returns on the cash S&P 500 Index, which does not exhibit the pattern until the focus is on returns that are within a 1% boundary. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 19: 541–564, 1999
Some agricultural implications of winter sublimation gains and losses at Palmer, Alaska

Abstract A block of ice 30.5 cm square and 2.5 cm thick was weighed once daily during the winter season of 1968–1969. In this manner gains and losses were determined for each diurnal period. From these data sublimation gains and losses were computed. Only daily periods with the following diurnal temperature and humidity conditions were considered in this study: (1) days with maximum temperatures of 0°C or less; (2) days with maximum temperatures above 0°C but with dew point temperatures at or above 0°C during the same period. By applying these criteria to the climatic measurements observed at the same site, it was found that only sublimation losses occurred on 31 days and only sublimation gains occurred on 6 days during the 115 days observational period. The gains and losses in ice block weight that occurred during these 37 daily periods of sublimation are related to diurnal temperature changes and mean wind flow. Sublimation losses occurred during diurnal periods in increasing temperatures and increasing winds. Sublimation gains occurred during diurnal periods of decreasing temperatures with little or no wind. Sublimation gains or losses appear to be closely related to synoptic weather changes. Large sublimation losses were strongly associated with diurnal periods of strong advection, while sublimation gains were associated when calm conditions and falling temperature trends characteristic of diurnal periods with strong radiation losses.
Attitudes and care practices of cat caretakers in Hawaii

Individuals who were maintaining colonies of homeless, free-roaming cats on the island of Oahu were surveyed to learn about the attitudes and care practices associated with colony maintenance. The 75 respondents were primarily female pet owners, middle-aged, living with spouses, well-educated, and employed full time, dispelling the image of caretakers as elderly, socially-isolated individuals. Most of the them believed that outdoor cat colonies should continue to exist and that colony maintenance is a way of curbing pet overpopulation so long as the cats are sterilized. The majority of respondents had been maintaining cat colonies for two to four years. All caretakers reported having attempted to socialize the cats and nearly half had been successful in adopting out cats. Most were caring for one colony consisting of fewer than 10 animals which were fed once or twice daily. All caretakers were making efforts to trap the cats and take them for sterilization and veterinary care. Although many took advantage of the Hawaiian Humane Society's free sterilization program for colony cats, some caretakers paid out-of-pocket for sterilization and more than half reported paying for all veterinary care. Love of cats, opportunity for nurturing, and enhanced feelings of self-esteem appear to be some of the factors underlying the remarkable commitment of the caretakers. Colony management may not be practical in some areas due to risks to wildlife and human health. However, where feasible, the availability of individuals willing to provide ongoing, responsible care to these animals may be a significant resource for animal welfare and control organizations.
New equity offerings in Japan: an examination of theory and practice

Abstract The use of shareholder rights represent an important mechanism for the acquisition of new equity capital in the Japanese financial market place. Yet a theoretical understanding of how a firm selects between a rights or a public offering remains elusive. Examining those Japanese firms issuing new equity over the period, 1975–1991, we find evidence consistent with the claim of Eckbo and Masulis (1992) that incorporation of antidilution clauses in convertible issues may influence the choice of method for new equity acquisition. The price rebound in the post-offering period which is critical to the transaction cost hypothesis of Hansen (1988), however, is only inconsistently detected for our sample of Japanese firms. Likewise, we observe a minimal agency footprint on the equity acquisition process, with only the impact of managerial equity ownership consistent with Smith (1977). We do find, however, that higher-quality Japanese firms attempt to avoid the adverse valuation effects associated with the issuing of new equity by employing underwriters to reduce potential information asymmetries. This result implies that the use of rights offering in Japan may be more popular among lower-quality firms or issues with only minimal potential for appreciation.
Qualification of Cables to IEEE Standards 323-1974 and 383-1974

Wire and Cable manufacturers generally qualify products for class IE application by envelope type testing to user specifications and environmental conditions recommended by IEEE Standards 323-1974 and 383-1974. The General Electric Wire and Cable Business Department recently completed two such qualification programs. Cable constructions tested were 600V control cables and 600V, 2KV, and 15KV power cables insulated with flame resistant mineral filled crosslinked polyethylene. The 15KV samples included taped field splices. To determine the ability of samples to withstand a loss of coolant accident (LOCA) both early in and at the end of design life, both thermally aged and unaged cables were irradiated and subjected to a 100 day plus 10 day margin simulated LOCA test. Samples were heat aged to a time-temperature condition in excess of 40 years of service life. The aging criterion was determined from experimental data fitted to an Arrhenius curve by the Regression Method of IEEE Standard 101-72. All test specimens were irradiated using a Cobalt 60 source to a total integrated dose of 220 Mrad. The simulated LOCA conditions of one test program followed the combined requirements for Boiling Water Reactors and Pressurized Water Reactors. In the second test program, the steam pressure-temperature profile included a simulated main steam line break. Test specimens were wrapped on grounded mandrels and were electrically loaded throughout the simulated LOCA tests. After completion of environmental testing, samples were subjected to the IEEE 383 simulated post-LOCA test.
Connoisseur's Choice: Dioptase, Tsumeb, Namibia

(2002). Connoisseur's Choice: Dioptase, Tsumeb, Namibia. Rocks & Minerals: Vol. 77, No. 3, pp. 176-180.
Antitumor Efficacy of the Dual PI3K/mTOR Inhibitor PF-04691502 in a Human Xenograft Tumor Model Derived from Colorectal Cancer Stem Cells Harboring a PIK3CA Mutation

PIK3CA (phosphoinositide-3-kinase, catalytic, alpha polypeptide) mutations can help predict the antitumor activity of phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway inhibitors in both preclinical and clinical settings. In light of the recent discovery of tumor-initiating cancer stem cells (CSCs) in various tumor types, we developed an in vitro CSC model from xenograft tumors established in mice from a colorectal cancer patient tumor in which the CD133+/EpCAM+ population represented tumor-initiating cells. CD133+/EpCAM+ CSCs were enriched under stem cell culture conditions and formed 3-dimensional tumor spheroids. Tumor spheroid cells exhibited CSC properties, including the capability for differentiation and self-renewal, higher tumorigenic potential and chemo-resistance. Genetic analysis using an OncoCarta™ panel revealed a PIK3CA (H1047R) mutation in these cells. Using a dual PI3K/mTOR inhibitor, PF-04691502, we then showed that blockage of the PI3K/mTOR pathway inhibited the in vitro proliferation of CSCs and in vivo xenograft tumor growth with manageable toxicity. Tumor growth inhibition in mice was accompanied by a significant reduction of phosphorylated Akt (pAKT) (S473), a well-established surrogate biomarker of PI3K/mTOR signaling pathway inhibition. Collectively, our data suggest that PF-04691502 exhibits potent anticancer activity in colorectal cancer by targeting both PIK3CA (H1047R) mutant CSCs and their derivatives. These results may assist in the clinical development of PF-04691502 for the treatment of a subpopulation of colorectal cancer patients with poor outcomes.
Quadratic and cubic invariants in classical mechanics

This paper is a continuation of a previous paper (A. S. Fokas, J. Math. Anal. Appl. 68 (1979), 347–370). It first establishes an isomorphism between dynamical variables of Hamilton's equations and Lie-Backlund operators of the Hamilton-Jacobi equation. It then concentrates on invariants at most cubic in the momenta. Illustrative examples are mainly potentials due to two centers and limiting cases thereof. Some new cubic invariants are also obtained.
The role of membrane curvature elastic stress for function of rhodopsin-like G protein-coupled receptors

The human genome encodes about 800 different G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR). They are key molecules in signal transduction pathways that transmit signals of a variety of ligands such as hormones and neurotransmitters to the cell interior. Upon ligand binding, the receptors undergo structural transitions that either enhance or inhibit transmission of a specific signal to the cell interior. Here we discuss results which indicate that transmission of such signals can be strongly modulated by the composition of the lipid matrix into which GPCR are imbedded. Experimental results have been obtained on rhodopsin, a prototype GPCR whose structure and function is representative for the great majority of GPCR in humans. The data shed light on the importance of curvature elastic stress in the lipid domain for function of GPCR.
Electrical conductivity enhancement of a polymer using butyl glycidyl ether (BGE)–lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) complex

In this study, we investigated the improvement in electrical conductivity of a polymer with the addition of dissolved lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) in an ether based solvent, butyl glycidyl ether (BGE). Thin film samples were fabricated by adding LiPF6 (up to 1 wt%) to poly (methyl-methacrylate) (PMMA). Film with 0.75% LiPF6 showed the highest improvement of electrical conductivity by three orders of magnitude. Both FTIR spectra and X-ray diffraction studies confirmed the formation of BGE–LiPF6 complex. Differential Scanning Calorimetry was used to characterize the PMMA/LiPF6 specimens further. Dielectric experiments revealed the existence of multiple composition dependent relaxation processes: β (high frequency) and β (low frequency) relaxation processes. The results suggest that electrical conductivity could be improved without influencing the domain polymer and the composite materials, including their processability. This work suggests that the conductivity of nanocomposites with various solid conductive fillers may be sufficiently enhanced in combination with this ion conduction approach involving a “liquid conductive filler.” Since BGE is compatible with epoxy molecules, further study is expected to lead to an effective solution to conductive epoxy composites in their wide field of applications including aircraft and multifunctional energy sources such as structural batteries.
Localization of basic drugs in the submaxillary gland.

Abstract Numerous basic drugs have been reported to accumulate in the submaxillary gland. In this report an investigation of the nature of this uptake process is described using the basic drugs Ba 31531 {4-[5-amino-3-(4-pyridyl-1-pyrazolyl)-1-methylpiperidine] and ST-155 [2-(2,6-dichloroanilino)-2-imidazoline HCl)]}. These compounds are reversibly taken up into the gland by a process with a high capacity which could be reproduced in vitro with tissue slices. The uptake into tissue slices exhibited a pH dependency which suggested that the accumulation was the result of a low intracellular pH. However, the intracellular pH determined with DMO was too high to account for this uptake. Attempts to account for the uptake by nonspecific binding to tissue components in homogenates also failed, suggesting that the uptake process requires an intact cell.
Beyond centre-periphery: qasbahs and Muslim life in South Asia

Qasbahs (small towns or large villages) have the dubious distinction of being at the heart of South Asian Islamic history and yet lying on the margins of historiography. It is almost impossible to imagine the central aspects of South Asian Islam without due acknowledgement to qasbahs and the qasbatis, their residents. From the Aligarh Movement and the Deoband madrasa to the development of an extensive body of Urdu literature, qasbahs provided not only the rank and file but also crucial leadership. While scholars concur on this fact, qasbahs and qasbati Muslims continue to fall outside of the academic purview. Addressing this lacuna, this article seeks to bring in qasbahs to the heart of debates by arguing that the various institutions and intellectual output of qasbahs were central, not peripheral, to Indo-Muslim life in South Asia. It discusses the evolution of qasbahs and focuses on Chaudhary Muhammad Ali (1882–1959) of the qasbah of Rudauli, a paragon of the learned and literary tradition of the qasbah...
Gas-surface chemical reactions at high collision energies?

Most gas−surface chemical reactions occur via reaction of adsorbed species to form a thermal-energy (kT) product; however, some instances exist where an energetic projectile directly reacts with an adsorbate in a single-collision event to form a hyperthermal product (with a kinetic energy of a few eV). Here we show for the first time that 30−300 eV F^+ bombardment of fluorinated Ag and Si surfaces produces “ultrafast” F_2^− products with exit energies of up to 90 eV via a multistep direct-reaction mechanism. Experiments conclusively show that the projectile F atom ends up in the fast molecular product despite the fact that the impact energy is far greater than typical bond energies.
The Effects of Spirituality on Drug Use

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there was a statistically significant correlation between the degree of substance use and the level of spirituality among participants in a long-term substance abuse treatment program. Data were collected from 30 individuals attending two long-term substance abuse programs. Mode of measurement consisted of the Index of Core Spiritual Experiences to measure the level of spirituality and the Addiction Severity Index, which measured the amount of drug use. Data for this study were coded numerically and analyzed using a Pearson product moment correlation coefficient to determine whether there was a statistically significant relationship between spirituality and substance use. Results revealed that there was not a statistically significant correlation between the level of spirituality and substance use. Recommendations for future research are discussed.
NMR Investigation of Enzymatic Coupling of Sulfonamide Antimicrobials with Humic Substances

Phenoloxidases mediate the oxidative transformation of soil phenolic constituents, contributing to the formation of humic substances and the chemical incorporation of some xenobiotic organic compounds into natural organic matter. We previously demonstrated phenoloxidase-mediated covalent coupling of sulfonamide antimicrobials with model humic constituents. Here, we investigate fungal peroxidase-mediated covalent coupling of 13C-sulfamethazine and 15N-sulfapyridine to humic substances. 1H–13C heteronuclear single quantum correlation (HSQC) nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy provided an initial indication of peroxidase-mediated covalent binding of 13C-sulfamethazine to humic acid. To confirm the role of the sulfonamide anilinic nitrogen in coupling to humic acid and to determine the nature of the covalent linkage, we incubated 15N-sulfapyridine with humic acid and peroxidase and examined reaction products in 1H–15N heteronuclear multiple bond (HMBC) experiments. The HMBC spectra revealed the presence o...
Electrical stimulation of Wernicke's area interferes with comprehension

Arrays of subdural electrodes were placed over the lateral convexity of the dominant hemisphere for propositional language in four patients with epilepsy as part of an evaluation prior to cortical resections. Stimulation was performed over several days. When we stimulated the posterior temporal language area, reading and comprehension of complex verbal information were impaired, but comprehension of nonverbal and simple verbal data was not affected. Impairment produced by stimulation seemed to be due to language comprehension difficulties, rather than impaired praxis or initial word storage.
Middle School Student Intentions to Play with Peers with Disabilities in Physical Education: Using the Theory of Planned Behavior

The purpose of the study was to develop a scale measuring intentions of children without disabilities to play with a hypothetical peer with a physical disability in general physical education using the Theory of Planned Behavior (Ajzen Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes 50:179–211, 1991) and to provide evidence of reliability, content validity, and initial factor structure. A background questionnaire and a pilot version of the Children’s Intentions to Play with Peers with Disabilities in Middle-School Physical Education (CIPPD-MPE) were administered to a convenience sample of 250 middle school students. Content validity of CIPPD-MPE was established by seven content experts. Findings revealed four factors (behavioral beliefs, control beliefs, behavioral intention, and normative beliefs), which explained 58% of the variance. Internal consistency ranged between .65 and .92. All factors were significantly correlated with intention, indicating the potential of CIPPD-MPE to predict intention of children without disabilities to play with a hypothetical peer with a physical disability in GPE.
Migration of F9 parietal endoderm cells is regulated by the ERK pathway.

Cell migration is regulated by the action of many signaling pathways that are activated in specific regions of migrating cells. Extracellular regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK) signaling can modulate the migration of cells by controlling the turnover of focal adhesions and the dynamics of actin polymerization. Focal adhesion turnover is necessary for cell migration, and the formation of strong actin stress fibers and mature focal adhesions puts the brakes on cell migration. We used F9 wild-type and vinculin null (vin−/−) parietal endoderm (PE) outgrowth to study the role of the ERK signaling pathway in cell migration. Upon plating of F9 embryoid bodies (EBs) onto laminin-coated dishes, PE cells migrate away from the EBs, providing an in vitro model for studying directed migration of this embryonic cell type. Our results suggest that the ERK pathway regulates PE cell migration by affecting the formation of focal adhesions and lamellipodia through the action of myosin light chain kinase (MLCK). J. Cell. Biochem. 97: 1339–1349, 2006. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Evidence in man for a fast neural mechanism during the early phase of exercise hyperpnea

Abstract Recently, the rapid increase in ventilation at the onset of exercise has been attributed to reflexes stimulated by the concomitant increase in cardiac output. To evaluate these ‘fast-humoral’ hypotheses in supine man, the heart rate, ventilation, and end-tidal P CO 2 and P O 2 observed during four procedures: the onset of mild dynamic exercise by the lower legs (1) with and (2) without inflation of occluding cuffs around the upper thighs, (3) rapid induction of circulatory occulusion at the level of the upper thighs, and (4) abrupt release of circulatory occlusion after 2.5 min of ischemia. Exercise resulted in abrupt hyperpnea, alveolar hyperventilation, and tachycardia whether or not there was circulatory occlusion. Circulatory engendered abrupt bradycardia and transient, hyperventilatory hyperpnea. Release of circulatory occlusion resulted in relatively large tachycardia and, after a delay, small hyperpnea and alveolar hypoventilation. The results demonstrate that the early response to exercise is not inherently isocapnic hyperpnea and that, contrary to the prediction of the fast-humoral hypotheses, the presumed increase in cardiac output following cuff release does not produce a ventilatory response similar to that of exercise. These findings support the existence of a neurally mediated factor during the early stages of exercise hyperpnea.
On nontrivial analytic signals with positive instantaneous frequency

This communication recalls that the design of analytic signals with positive instantaneous frequency is a dual problem to the design of causal linear time-invariant systems (e.g., filters) with monotonically decreasing phase response. Recent publications that specify the structure of analytic signals with instantaneous positive frequency for the aperiodic and periodic case, are referenced. The design of a finite-energy analytic signal with positive periodic instantaneous frequency is illustrated.
Bacteriophages inhibit degradation of abnormal proteins in E. coli.

On infection of Escherichia coli cells by bacteriophages T4, T5 or T7, the degradation of E. coli protein fragments and abnormal proteins is inhibited. Normal E. coli proteins, however, continue to be degraded at their usual rates. T4 early protein (s) is needed to inhibit the turnover of abnormal proteins in T4-infected E. coli cells.
An object-oriented approach to automated landform mapping: A case study of drumlins

Abstract This paper details an automated object-oriented approach to mapping landforms from digital elevation models (DEMs), using the example of drumlins in the Chautauqua drumlin field in NW Pennsylvania and upstate New York. Object-oriented classification is highly desirable as it can identify specific shapes in datasets based on both the pixel values in a raster dataset and the contextual information between pixels and extracted objects. The methodology is built specifically for application to the USGS 30 m resolution DEM data, which are freely available to the public and of sufficient resolution to map medium scale landforms. Using the raw DEM data, as well as derived aspect and slope, Definiens Developer (v.7) was used to perform multiresolution segmentation, followed by rule-based classification in order to extract individual polygons that represent drumlins. Drumlins obtained by automated extraction were visually and statistically compared to those identified via manual digitization. Detailed morphometric descriptive statistics such as means, ranges, and standard deviations were inspected and compared for length, width, elongation ratio, area, and perimeter. Although the manual and automated results were not always statistically identical, a more detailed comparison of just the drumlins identified by both procedures showed that the automated methods easily matched the manual digitization. Differences in the two methods related to mapping compound drumlins, and smaller and larger drumlins. The automated method generally identified more features in these categories than the manual method and thus outperformed the manual method.