cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Atmospheric pressure plasma treatment of black peppercorns inoculated with Salmonella and held under controlled storage.

Spices, including black pepper, are a source of microbial contamination and have been linked to outbreaks of salmonellosis when added to products that undergo no further processing. Traditional thermal processing employed to reduce microbial contamination can lead to losses of heat-sensitive compounds. Thus, alternative processes such as atmospheric pressure plasma (APP) are desirable. The purpose of this research was to determine the efficacy of APP in the destruction of Salmonella inoculated on the surface of peppercorns. Secondarily, we examined the effect of storage on the subsequent inactivation of Salmonella on the surfaces of black peppercorns by APP. Black peppercorns inoculated with a cocktail of Salmonella enterica serotypes Oranienburg, Tennessee, Anatum, and Enteritidis were stored at 25 °C, 33% relative humidity (RH); 25 °C, 97% RH; and, 37 °C, 33% RH for 10 d and additionally at 25 °C, 33% RH for 1 and 30 d then treated with APP. Results showed that Salmonella populations decreased significantly (P 0.05). Approximately a 4.5- to 5.5-log10 reduction in population was achieved after 60 to 80 s treatment. A combination of treatments, storage and 80 s of plasma, may achieve a total reduction on the order of 7-log10CFU/g. These findings support the potential of APP to decontaminate Salmonella on the surfaces of black peppercorns and other dry foods and illustrate that a multiple hurdle approach may prove effective for achieving significant reductions of Salmonella in many low-moisture foods. Practical Application Spices, including black pepper, which often is added to ready-to-eat food as final decoration or flavoring, has raised public health concerns due to outbreaks of salmonellosis. APP is a desirable and effective technology that is able to decontaminate pathogens while maintaining product quality. In this research, APP was shown to significantly reduce levels of Salmonella on the surfaces of black peppercorns. About a 5-log10 reduction could be achieved with 80-s treatment by APP. Storage conditions did not significantly affect the application of APP.
Electroencephalogram of Healthy Horses During Inhaled Anesthesia.

Background Previous study of the diagnostic validity of electroencephalography (EEG) to detect abnormalities in equine cerebral cortical function relied on the administration of various drugs for sedation, induction, and maintenance of general anesthesia but used identical criteria to interpret recordings. Objectives To determine the effects of 2 inhalation anesthetics on the EEG of healthy horses. Animals Six healthy horses. Methods Prospective study. After the sole administration of one of either isoflurane or halothane at 1.2, 1.4, and 1.6 times the minimum alveolar concentration, EEG was recorded during controlled ventilation, spontaneous ventilation, and nerve stimulation. Results Burst suppression was observed with isoflurane, along with EEG events that resembled epileptiform discharges. Halothane results were variable between horses, with epileptiform-like discharges and bursts of theta, alpha, and beta recorded intermittently. One horse died and 2 were euthanized as the result of anesthesia-related complications. Conclusions and Clinical Importance The results of this study indicate that the effects of halothane and isoflurane on EEG activity in the normal horse can be quite variable, even when used in the absence of other drugs. It is recommended that equine EEG be performed without the use of these inhalation anesthetics and that general anesthesia be induced and maintained by other contemporary means.
MOLECULAR ANALYSES OF THE PRINCIPAL COMPONENTS OF RESPONSE STRENGTH

Killeen and Hall (2001) showed that a common factor called strength underlies the key dependent variables of response probability, latency, and rate, and that overall response rate is a good predictor of strength. In a search for the mechanisms that underlie those correlations, this article shows that (a) the probability of responding on a trial is a two-state Markov process; (b) latency and rate of responding can be described in terms of the probability and period of stochastic machines called clocked Bernoulli modules; and (c) one such machine, the refractory Poisson process, provides a functional relation between the probability of observing a response during any epoch and the rate of responding. This relation is one of proportionality at low rates and curvilinearity at higher rates.
Functional oxytocin receptors in a human endometrial cell line

Abstract Objective: Our goal was to demonstrate expression and functionality of oxytocin receptors in a human endometrial cell line. This cell line could then be used for further investigation of the role of oxytocin in reproductive function at the cellular level. Study Design: Oxytocin receptor messenger ribonucleic acid expression was determined by reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction deoxyribonucleic acid amplification with ribonucleic acid from confluent Ishikawa cells. Ligand binding to whole cells was evaluated by nonlinear regression analysis with an iodinated oxytocin antagonist. The coupling of the oxytocin receptor to signaling pathways was evaluated by measuring oxytocin-stimulated increases in intracellular calcium concentration, phosphorylation of ERK2 (extracellular-regulated protein kinase 2) mitogen-activated protein kinase, and prostaglandin E2 release. Results: Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of the reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction products demonstrated the presence of oxytocin receptor messenger ribonucleic acid in Ishikawa cells. Ligand-binding analysis of these cells demonstrated a single class of noninteracting sites, with a Bmax (maximal number of binding sites) of 77.7 fmol/mg deoxyribonucleic acid and an apparent dissociation constant of 8.3 × 10–11 mol/L. Stimulation with 100-nmol/L oxytocin caused a rapid transient increase in intracellular free calcium concentration, which was blocked by 1-μmol/L oxytocin antagonist. Treatment of cells with oxytocin for 10 minutes resulted in a marked increase in the phosphorylation of ERK2, as determined by Western blot analysis, and a 5-fold increase in prostaglandin E2 release. Conclusion: This study is the first to demonstrate functional oxytocin receptors in an established human endometrial cell line. This cell line will be useful in elucidating the mechanisms of action of oxytocin in the reproductive tract at the molecular level. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2000;182:850-5.)
Identification of Mold and Dampness-Associated Respiratory Morbidity in 2 Schools : Comparison of Questionnaire Survey Responses to National Data

Background: Dampness and mold problems are frequently encountered in schools. Approximately one third of US public schools require extensive repairs or need at least 1 building replaced. This study illustrates how national data can be used to identify building-related health risks in school employees and students. Methods: School employees (n = 309) in 2 elementary schools (schools A and B) with dampness and mold problems completed standardized questionnaires. Responses were compared with participant responses from the 3rd National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and were indirectly standardized for gender, age, smoking status, and (for school B) race. Uncontrolled comparisons were made to responses from a study of office workers, as well as between responses from school employees in different sections of the school buildings designated by decade of construction. Results: Employees from both schools had excess work-related throat and lower respiratory symptoms, as well as eye, nasal, sinus, and wheezing symptoms. School B employees also had excess physician-diagnosed asthma and work-related fatigue, headache, and skin irritation. Employees in sections of the school buildings that were categorized as having greater dampness and mold contamination had more frequent upper and lower respiratory symptoms than employees working in other building sections. Conclusions: This noncostly type of analysis of indoor air quality complaints can be used to motivate and prioritize building remediation in public schools where funds for building remediation are usually limited.
Genetic Polymorphisms Conferring Risk of Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation in Korean Population: Chromosome 4q25, PITX2, and 16q22 ZFHX3

Background: GWAS revealed several genomes related with atrial fibrillation (AF), such as genetic variants on chromosome 4q22, PITX2, or chromosome 16q22 (ZFHX3). We evaluated those genetic polymorphisms in Korean patients with non-familial non-valvular AF. Methods and Results: We evaluated and compared the allelic frequencies of genetic polymorphisms of chromosome 4q22, PITX2, or 16q22 (ZFHX3) in 454 patients with non-valvular AF (296 paroxysmal AF [PAF], 158 persistent AF [PeAF]) and 422 sex-matched healthy controls by direct DNA sequencing and SNaPshotTM assay. Results: 1. The 4q25 rs2200733 (OR 0.368 (0.246–0.549), p<0.0001), the PITX2 rs17042171 (OR 0.368 (0.246–0.551), p<0.0001), the PITX2 rs6843082 (OR 0.234 (0.15–0.366), p<0.0001), and the 16q22 rs2106261 (OR 2.439 (1.62–3.672), p<0.0001) genotypes were more prevalent in patients with AF than control group. 2. In the haplotype analyses, the 4q25 rs17042171–rs2200733–rs6843082–rs10033464 A–T–G–G (OR 3.3421 (1.867–5.982), p<0.0001) and 4q25 without C–C–A–G (OR 4.630 (2.924–7.299), p<0.0001) were more predisposed in AF than in control group. 3. The 16q22 rs7193343–rs210626116q22 A–G haplotype was more prevalent in patients with AF (OR 0.477 (0.242–0.939), p=0.0322) than control group. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the Chromosom 4q25, PITX2, and 16q22 ZFHX3 polymorphisms were associated with non-familial non-valvular AF in Korean population. The 4q25 and PITX2 were closely related with Korean non-valvular AF in haplotype analyses.
The value of laparotomy and splenectomy in the staging of Hodgkin's disease.

Experience with 65 patients with biopsy-proven Hodgkin's disease who were subjected to laparotomy, splenectomy, liver biopsy, and para-aortic lymph node biopsy is presented. There were no major complications. Histologic findings in the para-aortic nodes, liver, and spleen are presented. A general correlation was observed between the occurrence of systemic symptoms and the extent of involvement below the diaphragm. There was no instance of liver involvement without concomitant splenic involvement. It is concluded that laparotomy with splenectomy is a valuable procedure for the more precise delineation of intra-abdominal sites of involvement in Hodgkin's disease prior to the initiation of extended field megavoltage radiation therapy with curative intent.
A methodology for obtaining air emission factors at point sources containing a combustion process

Preparation of air permits generally involves estimating emission rates of point sources. At point sources where combustion is occurring, the EPA's AP-42 emission factors can be used to estimate emissions resulting from combustion of fuel oil, gasoline, diesel, and natural gas. Emission factors for the combustion of other substances are the subject of this work. The method developed herein is based on the kinetics of the combustion reaction, and involves the formulation of a novel dimensionless group. This dimensionless group, which is referred to as ϕ in this work, is defined as the ratio of the log-mean reaction rate (normalized by the log-mean fuel concentration) to the space velocity of the materials passing through the reaction locus. This dimensionless group takes the value of 530 to 780 for the typical combustion of light hydrocarbons in a boiler or similarly-operating point source. The method provides emission factors which are in good agreement with those in the AP-42 compilation of emission factors.
Algebraic stability and degree growth of monomial maps

Given a rational monomial map, we consider the question of finding a toric variety on which it is algebraically stable. We give conditions for when such variety does or does not exist. We also obtain several precise estimates of the degree sequences of monomial maps.
Rethinking fundamental assumptions: Support's implications for future reform

BACKGROUND: The intervention in SUPPORT, the Study to Understand Prognoses and Preferences for Outcomes and Risks of Treatments, was ineffective in changing communication, decision-making, and treatment patterns despite evidence that counseling and information were delivered as planned. The previous paper in this volume shows that modest alterations in the intervention design probably did not explain the lack of substantial effects. OBJECTIVE: To explore the possibility that improved individual, patient-level decision-making is not the most effective strategy for improving end-of-life care and that improving routine practices may be more effective. DESIGN: This paper reflects our efforts to synthesize findings from SUPPORT and other sources in order to explore our conceptual models, their consistency with the data, and their leverage for change. RESULTS: Many of the assumptions underlying the model of improved decision-making are problematic. Furthermore, the results of SUPPORT suggest that implementing an effective intervention based on a normative model of shared decision-making can be quite difficult. Practice patterns and social expectations may be strong influences in shaping patients' courses of care. Innovations in system function, such as quality improvement or changing the financing incentives, may offer more powerful avenues for reform. CONCLUSIONS: SUPPORT's intervention may have failed to have an impact because strong psychological and social forces underlie present practices. System-level innovation and quality improvement in routine care may offer more powerful opportunities for improvement.
Fundamentals of analysis and computation for the Smart Grid

To ensure that the future students / researchers are equipped for operate the new Smart Grid, the diversification of the Power Engineering Education is required. Fundamentals of Smart grid Technology such as Communications, Wide area Measurements, Systems Theory and Control, renewable energy penetration, cyber-security and standards requirements must be included. An overview of the Smart Grid Fundamentals architecture, performance requirements, analytical and decision support tools, as well as renewable energy resources will be presented. Focus will be placed on the course / curricula development for Smart Grid Fundamentals education which will be geared to undergraduate, graduate audiences as well as for technical personnel and policy makers.
A molecular approach to predicting the onset of drag reduction in the turbulent flow of dilute polymer solutions

Abstract The significant variables in drag reduction have been separated into two classifications, flow variables and solution variables. A theory has been offered which permits prediction of the critical Reynolds number in the turbulent flow of polymer solutions. The theory states that the relaxation time of the polymer molecule in solution equals a characteristic flow time for the tube in question at the point of incipient turbulent suppression. This is equivalent to a Deborah number near unity. Reasonable agreement has been shown between the experimental results of this investigation and predictions of flow rates based on this theory for the presence or absence of drag reduction and for the onset of turbulence suppression. No adjustable parameters were used in the analysis. The theory seems to be applicable at values of C[η] greater than 0·10. The theory leads to the prediction that the wall shear rate at the point of incipient turbulence suppression decreases as the product of reduced viscosity, molecular weight and solvent viscosity increases. Thus for large effects this product should be made as large as possible. Friction factor measurements in both good and poor (Theta) solvents showed that the maximum drag reduction in the poor solvent was only about 40% of that in the good solvent at similar flow rates in the same tube. Thus the effect of an expanded configuration of the polymer molecule in solution is to increase drag reduction.
Length-Dependent Photoluminescence Lifetimes in Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes

We describe the length-dependent exciton dynamics in DNA-wrapped single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) using time-resolved photoluminescence (PL) excitation correlation spectroscopy. We demonstrate that the effective PL lifetimes have substantial upper limits in longer SWNTs. Our results suggest that the exciton diffusion to the ends of the nanotube has only a limited contribution to the net nonradiative relaxation rate, and the nonradiative processes that occur before the excitons reach the ends of SWNT are the dominant contribution to the nonradiative lifetime. From the length-dependent PL lifetimes and relative intensities in DNA-wrapped SWNTs, the exciton diffusion length was found to be ∼50 nm, and the diffusion coefficient was ∼1 cm2/s.
Models of production and inventory behaviour

Abstract To carry out empirical research on the behaviour of firms it is necessary to specify the cost functions explicitly. The behaviour of production and inventories are then derived by maximizing profits or minimizing costs over a planning horizon consisting of a number of production periods. Thus, it is inevitable that the implications of the model with respect to the behaviour of production and inventories will depend on the form of the cost functions posited, on the relative magnitudes of the parameters of these functions, as well as on the time path of demand. Different authors specify different forms of cost functions and obtain different models such as the production smoothing or the buffer stock models. The models are then applied to data on a number of industries and their success, or comparative performance, is judged by the frequency of a model's ability to explain the data. In this paper we consider three models of the firm's decisions regarding production and inventories when faced with changing and uncertain demand conditions. Each of the models is developed using certain assumptions regarding the cost functions for production and for holding inventories. Each of the models is fitted to seasonally unadjusted monthly data for six industries. The results of the estimation are presented and discussed. The conclusion is that no single model can be considered best in describing the behaviour of production and inventories in all of the industries. The obvious expectation that each model will succeed in explaining behaviour in industries where cost conditions are closely approximated by the cost functions underlying the model is supported.
Polymyxin B, a Protein Kinase C Inhibitor, Abolishes Preconditioning-induced Protection against Contractile Dysfunction in the Isolated Blood Perfused Rat Heart

The aims of this study were (1) to determine the characteristics of preconditioning against contractile dysfunction in a blood perfused isolated heart model in the presence of a physiologic combination of substrates, and (2) to determine if protein kinase C (PKC) is involved in preconditioning in this model. In order to investigate these aims, isolated isovolumic, blood perfused rat hearts (balloon-in-LV, n = 6/group) were perfused normoxically for 30 min and then divided into three groups and subjected to: (1) a further 30 min of perfusion (control group) (2) a further 20 min of perfusion + 5 min of ischaemia and 5 min of reperfusion (1 x preconditioned group) and (3) 3 x (5 min of ischaemia+5 min of reperfusion) (3 x preconditioned group). All hearts were then subjected to 30 min of ischaemia and 30 min of reperfusion. Contractile function, myocardial oxygen consumption (MVO2), lactate release and creatine kinase release were all assessed. To determine if PKC is involved in the mechanism of preconditioning in this model, the control and 3 x preconditioned group experiments were repeated in the presence of polymyxin B (50 microM), a relatively specific PKC inhibitor. Final recovery of LVDP was 31 +/- 12, 67 +/- 6 and 60 +/- 5% in the control, 1 x and 3 x preconditioned groups, respectively. Protection of contractile function was accompanied by both a preservation of diastolic function and the ratio of MVO2 to contractile function (ratio of metabolic:mechanical efficiency). However, lactate release was decreased only in the 3 x preconditioned group. Polymyxin B abolished preconditioning-induced protection against contractile and diastolic dysfunction and the protection of the ratio of MVO2 to contractile function. Lactate release was still however reduced in the polymyxin B-preconditioned group. Thus, preconditioning-induced protection against contractile dysfunction appears to be accompanied by a preservation of both diastolic function and the metabolic: mechanical efficiency and is effective in the presence of a physiologic combination of substrates. However, limitation of glycolysis during ischaemia, as assessed by lactate release, appears to be an epiphenomenon of the preconditioning protocol and is not consistently related to protection. PKC activation appears to be pivotal to the mechanism of protection against contractile dysfunction, since administration of polymyxin B abolished any protection.
Private Sector Development in Economies in Transition

Abstract The development of a competitive private sector is widely viewed as a central element in the economic transformation of central and eastern Europe. Despite significant reforms in these economies, state enterprises continue to produce a substantial share of output. This paper considers how the profitability of private firms is affected by the size of the state-owned sector. Closures that result in a decrease in the number of state-owned firms may reduce total industrial output in the short run but encourage the entry of private firms into the industry in the longer run and lead to an increase in total output. Policies that result in a depreciation of the real exchange rate increase output in the short run and induce the entry of new firms, thereby resulting in a further expansion of output in the long run. J. Comp. Econom., October 1994, 19 (2), pp. 260-271. International Monetary Fund, Washington, DC 20431.
Determination of ascorbic acid in algae by high-performance liquid chromatography on strong cation-exchange resin with electrochemical detection.

Abstract High-performance liquid chromatography on a strong cation-exchange column has been used to determine l -ascorbic acid in algae and in their growth media by electrochemical detection. Work-up procedures, optimized conditions for separation of l -ascorbic acid, and the noninterference of several sugars, lactones, and acids with this assay are described.
Analysis of Expression of Matrix Metalloproteinases and Tissue Inhibitors of Metalloproteinases in Human Ciliary Body after Latanoprost

PURPOSE. To determine the effect of latanoprost on the expression of human matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in the ciliary body. METHODS. Total RNA was isolated, and qualitative RT-PCR was performed to detect the mRNA of MMPs and TIMPs in human ciliary body tissue and explant cultures of ciliary body smooth muscle (CBSM) cells. CBSM cell cultures were treated with vehicle control or latanoprost acid for 24 hours. Quantitative RT-PCR of cell cultures from five different donors was performed to determine relative changes in expression. GAPDH served as an endogenous control. RESULTS. The mRNA of MMP-1, -2, -3, -11, -12, -14, -15, -16, -17, -19, and -24 as well as TIMP-1 to -4 were found in ciliary body tissue and CBSM cells. MMP-9 was present after latanoprost treatment. In control CBSM cells, the relative expression of MMP mRNA was MMP-2 and -14 MMP-24 MMP-1, -11, -15, -16, and -19 MMP-3 and 17, MMP-12. The relative expression of TIMP mRNA was TIMP-2 TIMP-1 TIMP-3 TIMP-4. Latanoprost increased MMP-3 (in three of five cultures), MMP-17 (in four of five cultures), and TIMP-3 (in all five cultures); MMP-1, -2, -12, -14, -15, and -16 and TIMP-4 were downregulated. CONCLUSIONS. The transcription of the genes for MMP-3 and -17 is increased by latanoprost treatment. MMP-9 is present after latanoprost treatment and may also mediate ECM changes. TIMP-3 is upregulated and may compensate for the increase in MMPs. These coordinated changes could be expected to mediate the latanoprost-induced alteration of ECM in the ciliary body. (Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci. 2006;47:953‐963) DOI:
Use of polyamino acid analogs of biomineral proteins in dispersion of inorganic particulates important to water treatment

Abstract Synthetic polyamino acids (peptides) based on the structure and activity of matrix proteins isolated from oyster shell and other biomineral structures have been identified for use in the prevention of mineral scaling. Matrix proteins are polyanionic and are thought to act as regulators of crystallization during the development of skeletal and other mineral structures. These proteins and their synthetic analogs also contain hydrophobic regions that may enhance their surface-active properties. The dispersion activity of a variety of polyamino acids that are matrix protein analogs has been evaluated in bench-top tests using inorganic mineral particles. Dispersion activities were measured using particles of iron oxide, kaolin, calcium carbonate, and calcium phosphate (hydroxyapatite). The activity was measured by increases in the spectrophotometric absorbance of test particle suspensions in the presence of dispersants. The increases in absorbance were due to turbidity resulting from the production of smaller particle sizes or slower rates of settling. The results suggest that biopolymers composed of polyanionic polyamino acids may be effective as dispersants. Polyamino acids containing a hydrophobic or phosphorylated domain attached to a polyaspartate backbone demonstrate enhanced activity over polyaspartate. These polyamino acids display comparable activity to commercially available hydrocarbon-based polymeric dispersants. An economical process for the manufacture of polyamino acids by thermal polycondensation is under development. Clearly, non-toxic and biodegradable polyamino acids present a desirable alternative to toxic non-biodegradable polymers in a number of applications such as detergents and cooling tower additives.
Relationship of soil properties to p‐fixing capacity of soils in northern Idaho

Abstract Phosphorus sorption studies were conducted on volcanic ash influenced surface horizons of 29 northern Idaho soils. Results show that the amount of P sorbed was significantly correlated with citrate‐dithionite extractable aluminum (r = .64∗∗), but not with Fe. Other significantly correlated soil properties were: percent base saturation (r = ‐.73∗∗), percent clay (r = .42∗∗), and exchangeable acidity (r = .39∗).
Comparative Potency of Subtilisin-Cleaved and Intact Human Growth Hormone Measured in Growth Hormone-Deficient Human Subjects*

Abstract Eight GH-deficient subjects received both subtilisin-cleaved human GH (hGH-S) and intact hGH (hGH-I) during short term balance studies to compare the potency of these two forms of GH. Both forms caused nitrogen retention, calciuria, potassium retention, and elevation of blood glucose. The effects on plasma insulin concentrations were inconstant at the doses used. hGH-S was more potent than hGH-I, as measured by nitrogen and potassium retention, and the differences reached levels of statistical significance. hGH-S also caused greater calciuria and increases in fasting and postprandial blood glucose and in postprandial insulin in absolute terms, but these differences did not reach levels of statistical significance. In no instance was hGH-I significantly more potent than hGH-S. We conclude hGH-S, a two-chain form of hGH, caused significantly greater nitrogen and potassium retention in human subjects in short term balance studies than hGH-I. (J Clin Endocrinol Metab 48: 293,1979)
On the lewis acid catalyzed cyclocondensation of imines with a siloxydiene

Abstract A hetero Diels-Alder route to 5,6-dihydro-γ-pyridones is described. Recently, we described the Lewis Acid catalyzed cyclocondensation of aldehydes with siloxydienes to give 5,6-dihydro-γ-pyrones. It was of interest to attempt to extend this reaction to include the imino linkage. Certainly, there have been reports of intermolecular 2 + 4 cycloadditions to “C = N” dienophiles.2 However, they have involved particularly activated glyoxyl imines (cf. 1 ,3 acyl imines (via presumed precursor 2 )4 or doubly activated imines (cf. 3 ).5 In addition, we note that Weinreb has elegantly exploited intramolecular Diels-Alder reactions of acyl imines6 as a new strategem in alkaloid synthesis.
Interfirm alliances in online retailing

Abstract Reports in the popular media attest to the fact that the commercial development of the Web has sparked greater interconnectedness and competition between firms. Under rapid technological and market change and opportunity, firms who have innovative ideas, technologies, and products form alliances to coordinate their resources and fully capitalize on them in a timely fashion. Drawing on interorganizational exchange behavior, we examine factors that contribute to the successful continuation of an alliance relationship. Specifically, we investigate how satisfaction with performance and resource dependency in the presence of market and technological turbulence affects alliance outcomes. We use data collected from alliance partners in the online retailing industry to test our propositions. Implications of the findings are discussed for both research and practice.
Migratory patterns of B lymphocytes. V. Surface Ig and migration properties of density gradient-separated bursa cells.

A study was made of bovine serum albumin density gradient-separated bursa cells with respect to their distribution on the gradients, % cytotoxicity with anti-Ig + complement (C) or anti-μ + C, and localization of fractions in irradiated syngeneic recipients. Layer A showed a higher cytotoxicity with anti-Ig + C or anti-μ + C than the others; layer D showed the lowest % cytotoxicity, although a large % of the cells not killed by anti-Ig were killed by anti-bursa serum + C. The C + D layers contained a much larger fraction of the Ig+ cells from the bursa in the 1–4-week-old than in the 6–12-week-old animals, suggesting a relative shift towards lower density of Ig+ bursa cells with age. When [3H]adenosine-labeled bursa cells from density gradient fractions were transferred, the % injected radioactivity found in recipient spleens was higher for fractions A and B than for fraction C + D. While 50–60 % of the cells from fractions A and B which localized in spleen were found in germinal centers and follicles, a much lower % of the cells from fraction C + D seen in spleen localized in these areas. The results were in agreement with those of previous studies suggesting that it is primarily the Ig-bearing population among bursa cells which localizes in follicles.
Evaluation of semantic role labeling and dependency parsing of automatic speech recognition output

Semantic role labeling (SRL) is an important module of spoken language understanding systems. This work extends the standard evaluation metrics for joint dependency parsing and SRL of text in order to be able to handle speech recognition output with word errors and sentence segmentation errors. We propose metrics based on word alignments and bags of relations, and compare their results on the output of several SRL systems on broadcast news and conversations of the OntoNotes corpus. We evaluate and analyze the relation between the performance of the subtasks that lead to SRL, including ASR, part-of-speech tagging or sentence segmentation. The tools are made available to the community.
The effects of salicylic acid and related compounds on in vitro rat brain respiration.

Abstract The compounds aspirin, salicylic acid, gentisic acid, and salicyluric acid were studied for their effects on in vitro brain respiration. 1. 1. Each of the compounds tested was found to inhibit in vitro brain glycolysis. 2. 2. Salicylic acid was found to uncouple oxidative phosphorylation from oxygen uptake during the oxidation of pyruvate by both homogenates and mitochondria of brain tissue. A similar effect was observed for salicylic acid on the oxidation of succinic acid by brain mitochondria. Salicylic acid was also inhibitory to the oxygen uptake of succinate oxidation, but this effect was only observed at concentrations two to three times the levels necessary for demonstration of the uncoupling action. 3. 3. Aspirin, gentisic acid, and salicyluric acid were found to inhibit the aerobic respiration of brain mitochondria. However, these effects were only noted at concentrations ten times that necessary for demonstration of salicylic acid. 4. 4. The uncoupling action of salicylic acid has been found to be reversible by the criteria of Ackermann and Potter (22).
Characterization Of Semiconductors By Photoluminescence And Photoluminescence Excitation Spectroscopy

A tutorial review of the application of photoluminescence (PL) and photoluminescence excitation (PLE) spectroscopy to the characterization of semiconductors is presented. The PL technique provides a contactless, non-destructive means for the identification of certain chemical impurities in semiconductors, and comparison of the spectral sharpness of PL features associated with the recombination of free and bound excitons provides a qualitative measure of crystal quality. PL and tunable dye laser PLE spectroscopy of shallow acceptors and acceptor excited states are discussed briefly, but particular emphasis is placed on PL studies of deep impurity states. The 3d transition metals are the most common inadvertent deep impurities in III-V and II-VI semiconductors and PL techniques have been applied to the study of the details of their incorporation in these materials. The role of Cr and Fe dopants in the production of semi-insulating GaAs and InP has been studied extensively by PL techniques. Comparison of PLE spectra of radiative d-d transitions associated with transition metal impurities with published absorption spectra for the same dopants allows identification of the luminescent charge state. PL techniques have also proven useful in the characterization of ion implanted semiconductors. The assessment of lattice reconstruction during annealing, the optical activation of implanted impurities, and the study of the redistribution of impurities such as Mn, Fe, and Cu and surface degradation resulting from implantation and annealing procedures are examples of the application of PL techniques to the evaluation of the ion implantation technology in III-V semiconductors.
Kinetic equations in superconductors and the nature and decay rate of a new mode

Abstract A set of coupled kinetic equations is derived for phonons, quasiparticles, and the gap of a clean superconductor. Well below the transition temperature, these equations yield an approximate conservation law for the sum of twice the number of nonequilibrium phonons with energy larger than twice the gap plus the number of nonequilibrium quasiparticles. This conservation law gives rise to a long-lived mode, whose decay rate is expressed in terms of microscopic scattering processes. A low-temperature quasiparticle pulse, which has been observed in experiments by Hu, Dynes, Narayanamurti, Smith, and Brinkman, is discussed in terms of the theory.
Monovalent cation-induced inhibition of chlorophyll a fluorescence: Antagonism by divalent cations

Abstract Salts of monovalent cations at concentrations less than 10 m m and buffers such as tricine were found to increase spillover from Photosystem II to Photosystem I in green plant photosynthesis as measured by a decrease in chlorophyll a fluorescence at room temperature. At 77 °K, they increased the fluorescence emission at 735 nm relative to the bands at 685 and 693 nm indicating that Photosystem I was receiving a greater part of the excitation energy. Divalent cations and monovalent cations at concentrations greater than 10 m m reversed the fluorescence changes.
Undertow, Rip Current, and Riptide

Abstract Leatherman, S.P., 2012. Undertow, rip current, and riptide. Undertow, rip current, and riptide are terms used to describe a variety of currents, all of which have different characteristics. However, much of the general public, news media, and even dictionary definitions confuse and misidentify these potential hazards at surf beaches. Many beachgoers use the terms interchangeably, when in fact they are distinctly different hazards. Furthermore, undertow, rip currents, and riptides occur for different reasons at different locations along the beach. Avoiding each of them and escaping their grip requires different strategies. Three-quarters of a century has passed since this issue was last addressed in the scientific literature, and rip currents are recently receiving much more attention by scientists and the general public because of a steady rate of fatalities, making this a timely issue.
Outcrop versus core and geophysical log interpretation of mid-Cretaceous paleosols from the Dakota Formation of Kansas

Abstract Paleosols of the mid-Cretaceous (late Albian to early Cenomanian) Dakota Formation in Kansas and Nebraska are well exposed in road, river and clay pit exposures, but show systematic overprinting by modern weathering. Examination of deep drill cores reveals that modern weathering effects include (1) oxidation of pyrite to jarosite, (2) reaction of jarosite and calcite to clear selenite, and (3) oxidation of sphaerosiderite and siderite nodules to hematite. Surface oxidation in this region extends no deeper than 2 m from the surface. Hematite nodules and coatings of leaves are found in core only at one stratigraphic horizon, which was not as appears in outcrop, a laterite. Transformed matrix density and photoelectric absorption logs of cores reveal that kaolinite clays are most abundant within deeply weathered paleosols (Sayela pedotype) at this stratigraphic level, near the Albian–Cenomanian boundary, when angiosperm forests were especially diverse and lived in a subtropical humid climate. Other paleosols of the early Cenomanian were less deeply weathered, and fossil plants of this age included temperate humid angiosperm mangal and swamp woodland, but conifer-dominated floodplain forests. This short-lived mid-Cretaceous warm–wet spike has also been recognized in other paleosols of Minnesota, Utah, Nevada, and New Mexico, and coincides with marine black shale of the Breitstroffer event, midcontinental marine transgression, a sequence-stratigraphic boundary, and a marked increase in early angiosperm diversity.
The role of endothelin-1 and the endothelin B receptor in the pathogenesis of hepatopulmonary syndrome in the rat

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) stimulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) via pulmonary endothelial endothelin B (ET(B)) receptors and pulmonary intravascular macrophage accumulation with expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) are implicated in experimental hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) after common bile duct ligation (CBDL). Our aim was to evaluate the role of ET-1 in the development of experimental HPS. The time course of molecular and physiological changes of HPS and the effects of selective endothelin receptor antagonists in vivo were assessed after CBDL. Effects of ET-1 on intralobar pulmonary vascular segment reactivity and on eNOS expression and activity in rat pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (RPMVECs) were also evaluated. Hepatic and plasma ET-1 levels increased 1 week after CBDL in association with a subsequent increase in pulmonary microvascular eNOS and ET(B) receptor levels and the onset of HPS. Selective ET(B) receptor inhibition in vivo significantly decreased pulmonary eNOS and ET(B) receptor levels and ameliorated HPS. CBDL pulmonary artery segments had markedly increased ET(B) receptor mediated, nitric oxide dependent vasodilatory responses to ET-1 compared with controls and ET-1 triggered an ET(B) receptor dependent stimulation of eNOS in RPMVECs. Pulmonary intravascular macrophages also accumulated after CBDL and expressed HO-1 and iNOS at 3 weeks. Selective ET(B) receptor blockade also decreased macrophage accumulation and iNOS production. In conclusion, ET-1 plays a central role in modulating pulmonary micovascular tone in experimental HPS.
Are varicose veins and coronary artery bypass surgery compatible

In 35 legs being operated on for varicose veins a venogram showed that the part of the long saphenous vein below the knee does not undergo varicose dilatation. In 7 of the 9 examined postoperatively this segment remained patent after the vein above was stripped. Varicose veins resulting from saphenofemoral incompetence can be treated surgically by stripping the long saphenous vein only to the knee and yet still leave a non-varicose segment for future coronary artery bypass grafting.
One cell's poison is another cell's cure

A drug that promotes cell death in cancer cells prevents cell death in post-ischemic neurons. These contrasting effects stem from the distinct actions of the anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-xL and its cleavage product, ΔN-Bcl-xL.
How to mark off paths on the protein energy landscape

Protein folding has run the gamut from complexity, to simplicity, and in a way, back to complexity. In the beginning, there were the slow and complex folding mechanisms of multidomain proteins involving multiple parallel or sequential intermediates en route to the native state (1). Then followed small proteins that can fold by a rapid two-state mechanism (2). Finally, when the single leftover activation barrier was reduced as much as possible through protein engineering, energy landscape roughness was revealed in folding kinetics (3). Landscape roughness temporarily traps very fast folders as they navigate many pathways toward the native state (4). The article by Noe et al. (5) in this issue of PNAS shows how molecular dynamics simulations can be used very efficiently to create a roadmap of the pathways on which a protein explores the energy landscape.
Long-range propagation of low-frequency radio waves between the earth and the ionosphere

The problem of modes of propagation of electromagnetic waves between a perfectly conducting earth and a gradually varying ionosphere is considered. The case of exponentially varying ionospheric parameters is solved in terms of Bessel functions. The propagation constant, the angle of arrival and the group velocity are calculated for the first few modes of propagation. It is shown that the results for the phase and group velocities and angle of arrival of low-order modes obtained when the ionosphere is assumed to be a perfectly conducting sheet at a height simply related to ionospheric parameters are very close to the true values. An application of this theory to the propagation of "tweeks" is discussed.
Object/subject migration: the National Centre of the History of Immigration

Abstract The National Centre of the History of Immigration (CNHI) opened in Paris in 2007 in a building initially constructed for the 1931 International Colonial Exhibition. The planning period and inauguration were informed by public controversy, the museum's unwillingness to actively engage with France's colonial history denounced, and finally tensions were exacerbated by the creation earlier that year by newly elected French President Nicolas Sarkozy of a Ministry of Immigration, Integration, National Identity and Co-development. This measure was deemed contrary to the primary objective of the CNHI which was to foster a new approach to immigration history based on its constitutive relationship to French history. Closer scrutiny of the CNHI project provides helpful insights into the political landscape of twentieth-century France, the symbiotic relationship between government ministries and cultural practices, the tenuous connections between national politics and globalization, while also suggesting the...
Ocean-TUNE UCONN testbed: A technology incubator for underwater communication and networking

In this paper, we introduce the Ocean-TUNE project which aims to provide a community testbed for underwater wireless sensor networks. We focus on the recent developments of UCONN's Ocean-TUNE testbed. Specifically, we describe the hardware and software systems, the evolution of the testbed and our vision of the Ocean-TUNE project. Recent experiment results collected from the testbed are also presented and discussed.
Determination of the Pesticides Alachlor, Anilazine, Bromoxynil, and Dichlobenil by Low Temperature Phosphorimetry

Abstract Sensitive low temperature phosphorimetric methods for the determination of the pesticides Alachlor, Anilazine, Bromoxynil, and Dichlobenil in EPA solvent have been developed. The minimum detectable amounts are 0.08, 0.006, 0.2, and 0.006 p.p.m. for Alachlor, Anilazine, Bromoxynil, and Dichlobenil respectively. The ranges in linearity of the analytical calibration graphs are 0.01–5, 0.2–7.5, and 0.03–20 p.p.m. for Anilazine, Bromoxynil, and Dichlobenil respectively. The analytical calibration graph for Alachlor is linear from 0.3 to 10 p.p.m. and with a different slope, linear from 10 to 50 p.p.m. The procedure for Alachlor has been applied to the analys of a solid commercial formulation.
System identification using modulating functions and fast fourier transforms

Abstract The Pearson-Lee method for system identification of continuous time systems is a new and powerful variant of the class of modulating function methods. It efficiently handles parameter identification of systems described by linear and certain nonlinear ordinary differential equations through the use of trigonometric modulating functions, Fast Fourier Transforms and batch least squares. The method uses a finite sequence of input-output data and it can be used both for on- and off-line studies. Three applications of the Pearson-Lee method are discussed in this paper. These are: model order reduction, multivariable system identification and delay identification. These applications are formulated in ways that allow straightforward extensions of the original theory. Issues and problems of the method arising from the applications are also discussed.
KO-obstructions of non-abelian group action on spin manifolds

Abstract In this paper, we give some KO -obstructions of non-Abelian group action on spin manifolds. These are closely related to the existence of metrics of positive scalar curvature on spin manifolds.
Transient thermal analysis of three fast-charging latent heat storage configurations

A space-based thermal storage application must accept large quantities of heat in a short period of time at an elevated temperature. A model of a lithium hydride phase change energy storage system was used to estimate reasonable physical dimensions for this application, which included the use of a liquid metal heat transfer fluid. A finite difference computer code was developed and used to evaluate three methods of enhancing heat transfer in the phase change material energy storage system. None of the following methods, inserting thin fins, reticulated nickel, or liquid lithium, significantly improved the system performance. The use of a 95% void fraction reticulated nickel insert was found to increase the storage capacity (total energy stored) of the system slightly with only a small decrease in the system energy density (energy storage/system mass). The addition of 10% liquid lithium was found to cause minor increases in both storage density and storage capacity with the added benefit of reducing the hydrogen pressure of the lithium hydride.