cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Policies for pricing commercially-useful space systems resulting from government programs

Abstract Policies for pricing commercially-useful systems resulting from government programs include four principal options: (1) marginal cost pricing, similar to what NASA, in pricing launch-vehicle services, has called “identifiable additional cost”; (2) average cost, or “full-cost”, pricing; (3) profit-maximizing (or “monopoly”) pricing; and (4) multi-part pricing. For efficient resource allocation in the short run, options (1) and (4) are optimal, whereas (2) and (3) are not. (Here “optimal” means, for example, that the amount of space shuttle services marketed will be such that the cost of producing the last unit exactly equals its market value.) This conclusion requires an assumption that externalities and implementation costs are not so different for the several alternatives as to alter the result. Choosing among alternative policies on the basis of long-run efficiency is more complicated and less conclusive, entailing such elusive considerations as public and congressional reactions to operating deficits and shuttle revenues, stimulating technological advance, etc. Finally, the alternatives can be evaluated in terms of distributional criteria: how they affect costs and benefits paid or received by taxpayers, industry and potential domestic and foreign users of space shuttle services.
Soluble, Exfoliated Hexagonal Boron Nitride Nanosheets

Hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), the isoelectric analogue of graphite, was functionalized using lipophilic and hydrophilic amine molecules. The functionalization induced the exfoliation of the layered structure of h-BN, resulting in few-layered and monolayered nanosheets soluble in common organic solvents and/or water. The soluble h-BN nanosheets were characterized using various solution-phase and solid-state techniques. For example, the optical extinction coefficients of the h-BN nanosheets in homogeneous dispersions were estimated to be much lower than those of graphene sheets, confirming their low-colored nature. Solution-phase NMR spectroscopy supported the mechanism that the amino groups of the functional molecules complex to the electron-deficient boron atoms on the h-BN nanosheet surfaces in terms of Lewis acid−base interactions. Results from other microscopic and spectroscopic characterizations of these functionalized two-dimensional nanomaterials are also presented, and the implications of the rep...
Teacher Classroom Management Behaviors and Student Time-on-Task: Implications for Teacher Education

An investigation of 17 second-grade and 17 fourth-grade classrooms was completed to determine the types of management behaviors teachers exhibited and the impact that these behaviors had on the teaching–learning environment for both teachers and students. Four hours of observational data were collected in each classroom. Data analyses indicated that the teaching–learning environment was greatly affected by the amount and quality of several teacher management behaviors. Teacher retreating, which is defined and discussed, was found to be a significant predictor of student off-task behavior. A detailed discussion of how the research findings can be used in teacher preparation programs is provided.
Sparse graph codes and practical decoding algorithms for communicating over packet timings in networks

This paper examines more closely the probabilistic dynamics of queueing channels and discusses a new practical coding scheme which is tailored to such channels and approaches the capacity. We discuss a shaping technique to map algebraic symbols to non-uniform codewords using the inverse cumulative distribution of a target random variable. We also exploit the graphical structure of the conditional distribution of the departure process given the arrival process of a queue to develop capacity approaching codes with low-complexity decoding algorithms.
A comparison of salinity measurement methods based on soil saturated pastes

Abstract Soil salinization is of great concern in the irrigated arid and semi-arid western U.S. due to its threat to sustainable agricultural productivity and thus is closely monitored. The measurement of electrical conductivity in saturated paste extracts (ECe) is the standard to which other salinity estimation methods are referenced. Since this method is laborious, the preparation of saturated pastes subject to bias, and salinity estimates by electrical conductivity (EC) subject to chemical artifact, numerous other methods have been proposed. These include EC measurements in diluted saturated paste extracts (ECed), direct measurement of EC in soil pastes (“Bureau of Soils Cup” method, ECcup), and EC based on electromagnetic induction (ECH25ECe). The main objective of this paper is to compare these four saturated paste-related methods of estimating salinity with respect to specific soil management goals. Comparison of the methods across six soil depths and three textural groups demonstrates that estimates of salinity are significantly influenced by the method, depth of sampling, and soil texture. Whereas ECe and ECcup estimates differed significantly from each other and from those of the other methods, ECH25ECe and ECed estimates were similar. In addition, high correlations between estimates of salinity by ECH25ECe and ECe indicate their similarity and suggest the suitability of the ECH25ECe method as a reference parameter for monitoring salinity. Thus, the suitability of the ECH25ECe method is drawn from its similarity to 1) the superior ECed method, which corrects for salinity underestimation due to ion pair formation, and 2) the ECe method, which is the standard method against which other salinity estimates are traditionally compared. This finding was consistent across all depths, the three texture groups, and the combinations of method and depth or texture groups. The high coefficient of variation in ECe and ECcup highlights the subjectivity of these methods and raises questions about the choice of ECe as standard for salinity estimates. These results therefore suggest that the ECH25ECe method (which requires few collocated but representative ECe measurements) be used to rapidly and reliably monitor salinity in calcareous soils of arid and semiarid regions.
The effect of protein kinases on desensitization of the porcine follicular membrane luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin-sensitive adenylyl cyclase

Because the acute homologous phase of desensitization of the LH/CG-sensitive adenylyl cyclase in porcine follicles is readily demonstrated in a cell-free membrane preparation, it follows that any enzyme(s) required to achieve desensitization must be present in the membranes and must be activated upon LH/CG receptor activation. The purpose of the following studies was to determine whether modulation of endogenous membrane protein kinases, with activators or inhibitors, or addition of exogenous protein kinases affected desensitization of the LH/CG-sensitive adenylyl cyclase. The effects of these potential modulators were evaluated in both the presence and absence of ligand (hCG)-stimulated receptor activation. To this end, membranes were incubated in the presence or absence of hCG (stage 1) and then assayed for adenylyl cyclase activity in the presence or absence of hCG (stage 2). The results showed that although porcine follicular membranes rich in LH/CG-sensitive adenylyl cyclase activity also exhibited cAMP-dependent [protein kinase-A (PKA)], cGMP-dependent (PKG), lipid-dependent (PKC), Ca2+/calmodulin, and casein kinase-I and -II activities, only full hCG-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity (measured with BSA in stage 1 and hCG in stage 2) was reduced upon addition of exogenous PKC (to the stage 1 incubation). hCG-dependent desensitization of cAMP synthesis (measured with hCG in stages 1 and 2) was unaffected by activators or inhibitors of endogenous PKA, PKC, or PKG, by an inhibitor of casein kinases and kinases in the beta-adrenergic receptor kinase family, or by the addition of exogenous active PKA, PKC, or rhodopsin kinase to the stage 1 incubation. These results suggest that the acute homologous phase of hCG-dependent desensitization of adenylyl cyclase activity in follicular membranes is not regulated by PKA, PKC, PKG, or messenger-independent heparin-sensitive protein kinases.
Configurable isolation: building high availability systems with commodity multi-core processors

High availability is an increasingly important requirement for enterprise systems, often valued more than performance. Systems designed for high availability typically use redundant hardware for error detection and continued uptime in the event of a failure. Chip multiprocessors with an abundance of identical resources like cores, cache and interconnection networks would appear to be ideal building blocks for implementing high availability solutions on chip. However, doing so poses significant challenges with respect to error containment and faulty component replacement. Increasing silicon and transient fault rates with future technology scaling exacerbate the problem. This paper proposes a novel, cost-effective, architecture for high availability systems built from future multi-core processors. We propose a new chip multiprocessor architecture that provides configurable isolation for fault containment and component retirement, based upon cost-effective modifications to commodity designs. The design is evaluated for a state-of-the-art industrial fault model and the proposed architecture is shown to provide effective fault isolation and graceful degradation even when the failure rate is high.
Molecular Design of Acyclic Polyether Dicarboxylic Acids Possessing Pseudo-18-crown-6 Frameworks for Selective Lead(II) Extraction

1,2-Bis[2-(2‘-carboxyalkyloxy)phenoxy]ethanes (3−6), 1,2-bis[2-(2‘-carboxyheptyloxy)phenoxy]benzene (7), 1,2-bis[2-(2‘-carboxyheptyloxy)ethoxy]benzene (8), and 1,2-bis[2-(2‘-carboxyheptyloxy)ethoxy]ethane (9), which possess pseudo-18-crown-6 frameworks, are synthesized for use in selective Pb(II) extraction. For comparison, monocarboxylic acid analogues of 2-phenoxyoctanoic acid (1) and 2-(2‘-methoxyphenyloxy)octanoic acid (2) are also prepared. Extraction of Pb(II) and Cu(II) from buffered aqueous solutions of varying pH into chloroform by these ligands is examined in relation to their molecular structure. Polyether dicarboxylic acids 3−9 exhibit higher Pb(II)/Cu(II) selectivities than the monocarboxylic acids 1 and 2. The alkyl chain length variation from hexyl to octyl to dodecyl to hexadecyl does not affect the Pb(II)/Cu(II) selectivity. Due to steric stress of the binding site, tribenzo ligand 7 shows a low Pb(II)/Cu(II) selectivity. For 3, 8, and 9, no significant difference in Pb(II)/Cu(II) selecti...
Reformulation of the solution-diffusion theory of reverse osmosis

Abstract Many transport concepts have been proposed for desalination by reverse osmosis; however, one of the most useful has been the solution-diffusion mechanism as articulated mathematically by Lonsdale, Merten, and Riley in 1965. Their simple formulation has proved effective for describing desalination by reverse osmosis in spite of the many simplifying assumptions, either explicitly or implicitly, used in its development. The result is a linear model where the flux of solvent increases without limit and solute rejection approaches 100% as the pressure differential becomes large. There is good reason to expect that many of the simplifications in the classical theory for the solution-diffusion mechanism will not be appropriate for separation of organic systems. There are numerous opportunities for reverse osmosis-type separations involving organics that might become practical as suitable membrane systems become available. The development of such membranes will require an understanding of the issues that affect the transport of both the solute and solvent in the polymer membrane; for this, a suitable theoretical framework for analysis of experimental data in terms of fundamental parameters is needed. This paper revisits the formulation of the theory for pressure-driven processes where both solute and solvent transports occur exclusively by the solution-diffusion mechanism. This more rigorous treatment of the thermodynamic boundary conditions naturally leads to nonlinear responses where the flux of solvent must reach a finite value as the pressure differential becomes very large. The practical consequence of this becomes more important as the solvent molar volume increases. Likewise, the effects of pressure on solute rejection may not be negligible as its molar volume increases. Finally, the effects of solute–solvent coupling may become important and this is considered using the Maxwell–Stefan formulation for multi-component diffusion. Various approximate forms of the general formulation are given and illustrated by calculations.
Building and testing carbon nanotubes and their architectures

Carbon nanotubes have fascinating physical properties. In order to use these novel one-dimensional structures for applications (such as in electronic devices, mechanical reinforcements and nano-electromechanical systems) the structure of nanotubes needs to be tailored and various architectures have to be configured using nanotube building blocks. This paper will focus on the directed and self-assembly of nanotubes on planar substrates into hierarchical structures that include oriented arrays, and ordered bundles. This is achieved by patterning substrates with or without metal catalysts. Growth of nanotubes is typically achieved by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Various strategies to build two-dimensional and three-dimensional architectures of nanotubes will be described by this method. In addition to creating pristine nanotube arrays on planar substrates, the paper will also cover some of our recent efforts in fabricating nanotube polymer hybrids. Recent efforts and challenges in manipulating nanotube on surfaces and measuring transport properties will be discussed. In conclusion, a perspective will be given on our recent efforts in creating controlled structures with nanotubes and measuring some of their properties.
Out in front – new technologies in remote working

ABSTRACT:With the ever-galloping pace of advancing technology, remote working is a reality for the modern veterinary practice. From improving work/life balance and increasing client service, to reducing the costs associated with travel and office resources, the benefits of remote working are vast. This article explores the ways in which remote office software can improve the running of a large animal/equine practice.
Higgs Fields, Curved Space, and Hadron Structure

We show that in completely unified Yang-Mills-Einstein-Higgs-type gauge theories with spontaneous symmetry breaking there exists the possibility that hadrons can be visualized as “microuniverses” where the large curvature within a region of about 0.7×10−13 cm arises from a large negative value of the VEV of the Hamiltonian. The low-lying collective excitations of the system have Hooke group symmetry and can be described as multiquasiparticle systems with oscillator-like energy spectra. The lowest states span reducible representations ofSU(3) and correspondence with the naive nonrelativistic quark model can be established. Confinement and absence of nonzero triality excitations can be explained in a natural way.
Studies of the enthalpy relaxation and the “multiple melting” behavior of semicrystalline poly(arylene ether ether ketone) (PEEk)

We report the results of an investigation by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) of two mobility controlled processes in the amorphous phas e of semicrystalline PEEK — enthalpy relaxation below the glass transition (T g) and secondary crystallization aboveT g. Both result in the observation of an endothermic peak just above the annealing temperature in the DSC scan of the polymer — the enthalpy recovery peak and the low temperature melting peak, respectively. There is a striking similarity in the time and temperature dependence of the endothermic peak for these two processes. These results are reminiscent of those obtained from small strain creep studies of “physical aging” of semicrystalline PEEK below and aboveT g.
Development of three-dimensional PML boundary conditions for aeroacoustics applications

Perfectly Matched Layer (PML) boundary conditions are derived in generalized curvilinear coordinates for three-dimensional aeroacoustic applications. The resulting governing equations are solved numerically by a four-stage Runge-Kutta scheme, with 4th/6th order compact finite difference formulation. The PML equations are programmed in a subroutine, which is easily incorporated to the main program LINEULER (Linearized Euler's equation solver). Two and three-dimensional benchmarks problems are solved to investigate the efficiency and accuracy of the PML boundary conditions. Investigations on the PML parameters have been conducted to determine the optimum combination of parameters used in the computations.
The Goldfish Bowl Effect of an Online Serials Control System

Description des problemes rencontres lors de la mise en place d'un systeme automatise de gestion de periodiques a la bibliotheque de l'universite de l'Etat de Georgie (Etats-Unis)
EXTRACORPOREAL MEMBRANE OXYGENATION 2001: The Odyssey Continues

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was established as a standard of care by demonstrating its ability to save lives in moribund infants. The designs of early studies provided no living cohorts of similarly ill patients by which to measure accurately other (and perhaps to many more important) outcomes of interest: long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes or cost. Prospective cohort studies of neurodevelopmental outcomes post-ECMO demonstrate: (1) because ECMO, as used, saves lives, there will be an increase in the absolute number of handicapped children surviving; (2) there is little evidence that ECMO creates a relative increase in the percent of handicapped children surviving severe respiratory failure. The high direct costs of an ECMO program are measured and well publicized. When such costs are compared with similar therapies in other fields (in such terms as cost per survivor), the cost of ECMO does not seem to be an outlier. Trials of newer therapies, such as iNO, show the capacity to decrease the use of ECMO but have failed to demonstrate either cost-effectiveness or better long-term outcomes. It has not been shown that either society or individual patients have benefited from the decreased need for ECMO.
Effects of Static Compression on Energy Metabolism of Porcine Intervertebral Disc

Degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD) has been associated with low back pain, which is one of the major socio-economic problems in the United States. Since IVD is the largest avascular cartilaginous structure in the human body, poor nutrient supply has been suggested as a potential mechanism for IVD degeneration. Biosynthesis of extracellular matrix is an energy demanding process which is required to maintain tissue integrity [1]. Cells consume glucose and oxygen to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the main energy form in cells. Glycolysis, the primary metabolic pathway for production of ATP in IVD cells, is strongly regulated by local oxygen concentration and pH (which is governed by lactate concentration) [2]. Therefore, energy metabolism may play an important role in the malnutrition pathway leading to IVD degeneration. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of mechanical loading on cellular energy metabolism in whole disc and in agarose gels.Copyright © 2010 by ASME
Gay And Lesbian Victimization: Reporting Factors in Domestic Violence and Bias Incidents

This article investigated various aspects of victimization, including reporting practices. Bias incidents and domestic violence historically have been underreported to the police. Few studies have examined the factors related to reporting practices of gay and lesbian victims of either bias crimes or same-sex battering. This exploratory study investigated the reporting practices of gay and lesbian victims of these types of incidents. It also examined whether there was variation by sexual orientation. The findings suggest there may be a relationship between bias and domestic incidents in terms of offenses, medical care, and reporting to the police. Further examination by sexual orientation suggests differences that warrant additional investigation.
Dysregulation of arachidonic acid release and metabolism by atopic mononuclear cells

We studied the ability of monocytes to metabolize [3H]arachidonic acid (AA) provided exogenously by activated T cells, and the extent to which dexamethasone suppressed eicosanoid production by normal and atopic cells. [3H]AA metabolites were identified using a reverse-phase high pressure liquid chromatography system (HPLC). Unstimulated and PHA-stimulated T cells from normal and atopic subjects exhibited a similar uptake and time-dependent release of radiolabel, 90% of which was identified as free AA. The addition of autologous normal and atopic monocytes to these cultures enhanced the release of radiolabel, even in the absence of stimulation with mitogen. Atopic T cell/monocyte cultures released significantly (P = 0.046) more radiolabel than normal cells when stimulated with PHA. Furthermore, the monocytes from both normal and atopic subjects metabolized T cell derived [3H]AA into cyclo-oxygenase (CO) and lipoxygenase (LO) products. Under unstimulated conditions, atopic cells produced significantly (P = 0.04) less CO products than normal cells. In contrast, under PHA and calcium ionophore-stimulated conditions, the atopic cells produced significantly (P = 0.048) more prostaglandins than normal donor cells. Furthermore, although the total release of radioactivity was comparable in both groups, significantly less (P = 0.02) free AA remained in ionophore-stimulated culture supernatants from atopic cells. In order to study the regulation of AA release by normal and atopic T cells, dexamethasone (1 microM) was added to T cell cultures. Dexamethasone inhibited the release of [3H]AA from normal T cells to a significantly (P = 0.003) greater extent than it did to atopic cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Observation of whispering gallery modes in the mid-infrared with a quantum cascade laser: possible applications to nanoliter chemical sensing

Excitation of the whispering gallery modes (WGM) of a CaF_2 ball resonator is demonstrated at 4.5 micron with a pulsed Quantum Cascade laser. A prism coupling scheme for mid-infrared is described. Future applications of WGM resonators as hyphenated inline chromatography sensors are discussed.
Oxidation of Chromium(III) to (VI) by Manganese Oxides

Manganese oxides in soils oxidize Cr from a stable form to a more toxic mobile form. The influence of Mn oxide diversity on Cr oxidation is the subject of this report. Oxidation of Cr(III) to Cr(VI) by coarse clay-size natural Mn oxides, birnessite, todorokite, and lithiophorite was studied at pH 4 and 7, and at 200 and 400 μM initial Cr(III) concentrations. The oxidation rate obeyed the first-order rate law at the 400 μM Cr(III) initial concentration; the 200 μM concentration was too low and reverse reactions may have interfered. Rate law is valid only far from equilibrium. The rate of oxidation was greater for todorokite and birnessite that contained the most quadrivalent Mn and least for lithiophorite that contained a greater proportion of trivalent Mn determined by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The deviation of Mn oxidation state from the frequently assumed quadrivalent form in Mn oxides suggests the need for a thorough assessment of the ion species of Mn in Mn oxides that occur in soils. At 400 μM Cr(III), the rate of Cr oxidation by the pyrolusite sample was intermediate between birnessite and todorokite suggesting that the sample was not pure pyrolusite. Apparently, the synthesis process did not reach equilibrium with pyrolusite. The sample used as a chemical standard was apparently more soluble and more effective in oxidizing Cr(III) than would be expected for the natural mineral pyrolusite.
Optimal Surgical Ablation of Atrial Tachyarrhythmias During Correction of Ebstein Anomaly

Background Ebstein anomaly (EA) is commonly associated with atrial flutter or fibrillation (AFl/F), which adversely affects outcome. Surgical ablation of AFl/F during surgery for EA has been shown to be effective, but the optimal lesion set remains unknown. Methods Between 1995 and 2010, 86 patients had corrective surgery for EA and concomitant maze procedure for associated AFl/F. Median age at operation was 40 years (range, 1 to 72 years), and 49 patients (60%) were male. Preoperative AFl/F was paroxysmal in 43 patients (50%). All patients who had diagnosis of or treatment for accessory pathways and reentrant tachycardia were excluded from this analysis. Results All patients underwent tricuspid valve surgery for EA and concomitant maze procedure, including right-sided maze (RSM) in 62 patients (72%) and biatrial maze (BAM) in 24 patients (28%). Early mortality occurred in 3 patients (3.5%). During median follow-up of 52 months (range, 3 months to 17 years), overall freedom from AFl/F without antiarrhythmic medications was 79% (RSM, 80% versus BAM, 76%; p = 0.97). Although there was no difference in rhythm outcome between RSM and BAM for patients with paroxysmal AFl/F ( p = 0.08), there was a trend toward higher freedom from AF without antiarrhythmic medications in patients with persistent AFl/F for BAM (86%) versus RSM (71%; p = 0.053). Overall, there were no late strokes, and 84% were free from sodium warfarin anticoagulation. Conclusions Overall, surgical ablation of preoperative AFl/F is effective in patients undergoing surgery for EA. Although rhythm outcome of RSM and BAM did not differ in patients with preoperative paroxysmal AFl/F, those with persistent or permanent AFl/F may benefit from a biatrial lesion set.
Entomophthora muscae (Entomophthorales: Entomophthoracae) mycosis in the onion fly, Delia antiqua (Diptera: Anthomyiidae)

Abstract Entomophthora muscae was identified as a common fungal pathogen of the onion fly, Delia antiqua , and the adult seed corn maggot, D. platura . Low infection levels also were found in populations of the cluster fly, Pollenia rudis (Diptera: Muscidae), and the tiger fly, Coenosia tigrina (Diptera: Muscidae). The disease cycle, as it affects D. antiqua in the onion agroecosystem, is described, including the etiology, symptomatology, and phenology. Natural infection levels approaching 100% were noted early in the spring and in late fall, impacting the 1st and 3rd generations of the D. antiqua population significantly. A lagged density-dependent disease response was noted at the gross population level, although more specific biological interactions may be involved in regulating the disease intensity.
Biological effects of power frequency electric fields

Abstract Unperturbed power frequency electric fields accessible to the general public rarely exceed 10 kV m −1 . Even at these upper limits, the fields induced in the tissues of isolated human subjects entering these fields are too small to produce any confirmed biological effect. Contact with conducting objects, however, can concentrate the induced currents giving rise to perceptible, localized internal fields. The stimulus arises from a rapid (∼1 μs) transfer of charge at the moment of contact followed by a steady current. The transient may be perceptible even when the subsequent steady current is not. Although not a biological effect, electromagnetic interference of power frequency fields as low as 2 kV m − 1 with certain cardiac pacemakers could have medical significance. Introducing conducting objects in air electric fields tends to enhance the fields near the extremities of the objects. These enhanced external fields may produce motion of hair and vibrotactile sensations. It appears highly unlikely that any significant adverse biological effects can be attributed to the electric fields commonly accessible to the general public.
Rare earth element complexation by carbonate and oxalate ions

Rare earth carbonate and oxalate complexation constants have been determined through ex-amination of distribution equilibria between tributyl phosphate and an aqueous perchlorate phase. Carbonate complexation constants appropriate to the REE in seawater (25°C, 35%., 1 atm) can be described in terms of atomic number, Z. nlog swβ1 = 4.853 + 0.1135(Z − 57) − 0.003643(Z − 57)2log swβ2 = 80.197 + 0.1730(Z − 57) − 0.002714(Z −57)2 where swβ1 = [MCO+3][M3+][CO2−3]T, swβ2 = [M(CO3)−3][M3+][CO2−3]2'T [M3+] is an uncomplexed rare earth concentration in seawater, [MCO+3] and [M(CO−3)2] are carbonate complex concentrations, and [CO2−3]T is the total (free plus ion paired) carbonate ion concentration in seawater (molal scale). Our analyses indicate that in seawater with a total carbonate ion concentration of 1.39 × 10−4 moles/Kg H2O, carbonate complexes for the lightest rare earth, La, constitute 86% of the total metal, 7% is free La3+ and the remaining 7% exists as hydroxide, sulfate, chloride and fluoride complexes. For Lu, the heaviest rare earth, carbonate complexes are 98% of the total metal, 0.3% is uncomplexed and 1.5% is complexed with hydroxide, sulfate, chloride and fluoride. Oxalate and carbonate constants are linearly correlated. This correlation appears to be quite useful for estimating trivalent metal-arbonate stability constants from their respective oxalate stability constants.
143rd Annual Meeting Wrap Up: Thank You Little Rock

Fisheries professionals gathered at the 143rd Annual Meeting of the American Fisheries Society in Little Rock, Arkansas, which was hosted by the American Fisheries Society (AFS) Arkansas Chapter in...
Bank Capital and Risk: Is Voluntary Disclosure Enough?

This paper considers whether banks have an incentive to disclose accurate information concerning their risk and capital adequacy. State-of-the-art capital regulation relies on quantitative capital requirements, bank supervision, and public disclosure of information to the markets. Is voluntary regulatory disclosure of risk information sufficient to achieve policy objectives? The game-theoretic model of this paper suggests that voluntary disclosure can be usefully supplemented with other regulatory tools, in particular with direct supervision and financial market discipline.
A survey of coronal holes and their solar wind associations throughout sunspot cycle 20

Space-borne X-ray and XUV observations during the period 1963-74 (corresponding approximately with solar cycle 20) have been used to investigate the relationship between the occurrence and variability of coronal holes and solar activity, i.e., the solar wind. Results indicate that polar holes (prominent at solar minimum) decreased in area as solar activity increased. The equatorial holes were also small during this period and persisted for one or two solar rotations only. Solar wind streams in excess of 500 km/s were associated with coronal holes at less than 40 deg latitude, although solar coronal holes appear to have no associated wind streams at earth.
Neighborhoods of extreme points

An examination of relationship between two neighborhood systems (relative to two linear topologies) of extreme points yields a unified approach to some known and new results, among which are Bessaga-Pelczynski’s theorem on closed bounded convex subsets of separable conjugate Banach spaces and Ryll-Nardzewski’s fixed point theorem.
Synthesis and Conformation of Chiral Eight-Membered 12H-Dibenzo[d,g][1,3,2]dioxaphosphocins1

The synthesis and characterization of several chiral derivatives of the 12H-dibenzo[d,g][1,3,2]dioxaphosphocin ring system are described. The conformation of the eight-membered dioxaphosphocin ring...
Compartmentalization of mercury in biotic components of terrestrial flood plain ecosystems adjacent to the South River AT Waynesboro, VA

Aquatic Hg contamination extending more than 200 km along the South River, South Fork of the Shenandoah River, and Shenandoah River in western VA has been recognized since 1977. Flooding has transported considerable Hg onto the flood plain resulting in highly variable terrestrial soil contamination. At our Waynesboro, VA, old field and forest research sites, this is characteristically 5 to 25 μg Hg g−1 with individual samples containing more than twice that level. Upstream control site soils have concentrations 4 μg Hg g−1dw. Lower concentration levels were found in leaves. A moss and 13 fungi were also associated with significant tissue Hg concentrations. Distribution within the animal community includes its presence in three macroinvertebrates (eg. earthworms with 10–16 μg Hg g−1dw total tissue Hg) and several microinvertebrate arthropods. Hg was also found in various tissues of three small mammals, Microtus, Peromyscus, and Blarina (eg. kidney concentrations up to ≈30 μg Hg g−1dw). These data support the hypothesis that Hg residues in river sediments are not sequestered from adjacent terrestrial biotic communities and are an available pool for the extension of bioaccumulation wherever flooding occurs. The concentrations of Hg in these flood plain ecosystems are great enough to invite further investigation.
A cool project

The author describes how thermoelectric technology and the Lotus Elise formed the basis of an award-winning student project.
Renal Generation of Angiotensin II and the Pathogenesis of Hypertension

The existence of a complete and functional renin-angiotensin system along the nephron is widely recognized. However, its precise role in blood pressure control and, by extension, hypertension is still uncertain. While most investigators agree that overexpressing RAS components along the nephron results in hypertension, two important issues remain: whether the local RAS works as a separate entity or represents an extension of the systemic RAS and whether locally generated angiotensin II has specific renal effects on blood pressure that are distinct from systemic angiotensin II. This review addresses these issues while emphasizing the unique role of local angiotensin II in the response of the kidney to hypertensive stimuli and the induction of hypertension.
Management of the Mental Health of Ambulatory Elderly Patients

Geriatric health care practice strives to respond to the medical, psychologic and social needs of the elderly person through coordinating the services of the physician and the psychiatric social worker. In a geriatric clinic at the George Washington University Medical Center, the medical regimen for elderly ambulatory patients is supported and augmented by psychotherapy, counseling, behavioral therapy, and instruction of the family about the patient's need for environmental or residential changes. A review of the records of 40 elderly patients initially enrolled in the geriatric clinic program showed that 20 were in need of mental health support. Among these, 8 had a depressive disorder, 1 had paraphrenia, 2 had longstanding schizophrenia, and the rest showed mental decline secondary to organic brain syndrome. The geriatrician and the psychiatric social worker were able to provide sufficient mental health support for these elderly mental patients to permit them to remain in the community for worthwhile periods. Ambulatory geriatric patients, especially those with mental health impairment, can benefit greatly from services offered in a comprehensive fashion by a geriatrician and a psychiatric social worker.
Tumor excision versus valve replacement for papillary fibroelastoma involving the mitral valve.

T o l g m a c l p e w r t a d N d t o O P l c s h e recently encountered a young man ho had 3 strokes and a mass found by chocardiography on his mitral valve, hich as a consequence was replaced. he tumor both grossly and histologially was a classic papillary fibroelasoma (PF). The patient’s condition stimlated a discussion regarding whether xcision of the PF or replacement of the alve containing it might be the preerred procedure. In an attempt to anwer the question posed, patients previusly reported in an English publication ince the first mitral valve operation for F involving an otherwise normal valve ere reviewed.
Outlier Detection in the Multiple Cluster Setting Using the Minimum Covariance Determinant Estimator

Abstract Mahalanobis-type distances in which the shape matrix is derived from a consistent high-breakdown robust multivariate location and scale estimator can be used to find outlying points. Hardin and Rocke ( http://www.cipic.ucdavis.edu/~dmrocke/preprints.html ) developed a new method for identifying outliers in a one-cluster setting using an F distribution. We extend the method to the multiple cluster case which gives a robust clustering method in conjunction with an outlier identification method. We provide results of the F distribution method for multiple clusters which have different sizes and shapes.
Comparison of bridge load rating based on analytical and field testing methods

Unit H4 of the ACOSTA bridge in Jacksonville, Florida is composed of steel with a composite concrete deck. The bridge, designed for AASHTO HS20 loading, was built in 1993 on a horizontal curve. However it was later discovered that the designer neglected to consider the effect of curvature in the original design. Considering the effect of curvature in the analytical load rating resulted in load rating of HS4. To resolve the concerns about the low load rating of this essentially new bridge and to establish the actual load capacity, field load testing was conducted in 1996. Critical sections along the span were instrumented with strain and deflection gauges. The bridge was incrementally loaded and all measurements were recorded at each load step. The results were used to study the behavior of the bridge. The field test results combined with analysis resulted in a higher load rating than the original analytical rating considering curvature effect.
Relationship of attitudes and locus of control to exercise and physical fitness

Locus of control and attitudes toward physical activity specifying direction for the control construct were related to cardiovascular fitness and to measures of voluntary physical exercise in 102 m...
Characterization of horse (Equus caballus) T-cell receptor beta chain genes

Genes encoding the horse (Equus caballus) T-cell receptor beta chain (TCRB) were cloned and characterized. Of 33 cDNA clones isolated from the mesenteric lymph node, 30 had functionally rearranged gene segments, and three contained germline sequences. Sixteen unique variable segments (TCRBV), 14 joining genes (TCRBJ), and two constant region genes (TCRBC) were identified. Horse TCRBV were grouped into nine families based on similarity to human sequences. TCRBV2 and TCRBV12 were the most commonly represented horse families. Analysis of predicted protein structure revealed the presence of conserved regions similar to those seen in TCRB of other species. A decanucleotide promoter sequence homologous to those found in humans and mice was located in the 5′ untranslated region of one horse gene. Germline sequences included the 5′ region of the TCRBD2 gene with flanking heptamer/nonamer recombination signals and portions of the TCRBJ-C2 intron. Southern blot hybridizations demonstrated restriction fragment length polymorphisms at the TCRBC locus among different horse breeds.
Transient inhibition of CD18-dependent leukocyte functions after hemorrhage and polymicrobial sepsis

Abstract Background: The goals were (1) to characterize physiologic changes after a combined insult of hemorrhage plus sepsis in a large animal model and (2) to determine whether transient inhibition of the neutrophil CD18 adherence receptor during fluid resuscitation impairs host defense during recovery from this injury. Methods: Two series of experiments were performed in anesthetized swine. In the first series (n = 22), the cecum was ligated and incised immediately before 35% hemorrhage. After 1 hour, shed blood plus supplemental fluid was administered to restore and stabilize hemodynamics. On the basis of these results, a second series examined effects of anti-CD18 (2 mg/kg R15.7; n = 9) or its saline placebo (n = 10) administered during fluid resuscitation. Results: In the first series the mortality rate was 41% (9 of 22). Early deaths occurred 3.0 ± 0.8 days after injury and were distinguished by significantly lower neutrophil counts on resuscitation. Those alive at 7 days had intraabdominal abscesses and bacteremia. Alveoli and peribronchial spaces were congested, with edema and fibrin deposition in capillaries and alveoli. Livers were congested with biliary stasis. Despite these pathologic findings, hemodynamic, electrolyte, and serum enzyme changes were minimal. In the second series the mortality rate at 4 days was 30% with placebo (3 of 10) versus 33% with anti-CD18 (3 of 9). Lung changes (i.e., pneumonia, pleuritis, thrombosis, and edema) were similar in both groups, but liver congestion and hemorrhage were attenuated by anti-CD18. Some aspects of host defense were altered by anti-CD18. At 24 and 48 hours the oxidative burst potential for circulating granulocytes was 208% ± 57% and 383% ± 73% with placebo versus 1273% ± 351% and 762% ± 226% in anti-CD18. At 72 hours the granularity of circulating neutrophils was unchanged from baseline with placebo but was reduced to 82% ± 5% by anti-CD18. At 48 hours lipopolysaccharide-evoked tumor necrosis factor production in vitro was reduced to 62% ± 22% with placebo but was increased to 148% ± 16% with anti-CD18. Conclusions: Anti-CD18 during fluid resuscitation did not increase vulnerability to endogenous pathogens because the transient inhibition of neutrophil demargination was balanced by enhanced oxidative burst, degranulation, and production of tumor necrosis factor in circulating cells later during recovery. Thus a single administration of antiadhesion therapy does not worsen posttrauma outcome even if given during ongoing sepsis. (Surgery 1998;123:679-91.)
Vicinal and on-axis surfaces of 6H-SiC(0001) thin films observed by scanning tunneling microscopy

Abstract Surfaces of 6H-SiC(0001) homoepitaxial layers deposited on vicinal (∼3.5° off (0001) towards [1120]) and on-axis 6HSiC wafers by chemical vapour deposition have been investigated using ultra-high vacuum scanning tunneling microscopy. Undulating step configurations were observed on both the on-axis and the vicinal surfaces. The former surface possessed wider terraces than the latter. Step heights on both surfaces were ∼0.25 nm corresponding to single bilayers containing one Si and one C layer. After annealing at T >1100°C for 3–5 min in UHV, selected terraces contained honeycomb-like regions caused by the transformation to a graphitic surface as a result of Si sublimation. A model of the observed step configuration has been proposed based on the observation of the [2110] or [1210] orientations of the steps and energetic considerations. Additional deposition of very thin (∼2 nm) SiC films on the above samples by gas source molecular beam epitaxy was performed to observe the evolution of the surface structure. Step bunching and growth of 6HSiC layers and formation of 3CSiC islands were observed on the vicinal and the on-axis surfaces, respectively, and controlled by the diffusion lengths of the adatoms.
Effect of chronic, extrinsic denervation on functional NANC innervation with vasoactive intestinal polypeptide and substance P in longitudinal muscle of rat jejunum.

Intestinal denervation contributes to enteric motor dysfunction after intestinal transplantation [small bowel transplantation (SBT)]. Our aim was to determine long-term effects of extrinsic denervation on functional non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic innervation with vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) and substance P. Contractile activity of jejunal longitudinal muscle from six age-matched, naive control rats (NC) and eight rats 1 year after syngeneic SBT were studied in tissue chambers. Spontaneous contractile activity did not differ between groups. Exogenous VIP inhibited contractile activity dose-dependently in both groups, greater in NC than in SBT. The VIP antagonist ([D-p-Cl-Phe(6),Leu(17)]-VIP) and the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor l-N(G)-nitro arginine prevented inhibition by exogenous VIP and electrical field stimulation (EFS) in both groups. Exogenous substance P increased contractile activity dose-dependently, greater in NC than in SBT. The substance P antagonist ([D-Pro(2),D-Trp(7,9)]-substance P) inhibited effects of exogenous substance P and increased the EFS-induced inhibitory response. Immunohistofluorescence showed staining for tyrosine hydroxylase in the jejunoileum 1 year after SBT suggesting sympathetic reinnervation. In rat jejunal longitudinal muscle after chronic denervation, response to exogenous VIP and substance P is decreased, while endogenous release of both neurotransmitters is preserved. These alterations in excitatory and inhibitory pathways occur despite extrinsic reinnervation and might contribute to enteric motor dysfunction after SBT.
Installation induced stresses for grouted roof bolts

Abstract The judicious use of roof bolts in stabilizing underground openings necessitates the ability to determine the state of stress in and around such bolts. A method of modeling a system of roof bolts is presented. This method is then applied in the determination of the state of stress due to bolt tightening. Two specific roof bolt configurations are considered: a fully grouted post-tensioned bolt and a post-tensioned bolt with grouted-end anchorage. The analysis showed that the grout annulus transferred nearly all of the bolt load 3nto the rock within a distance of 12 hole diameters from the point of bolt load application.
Evaluation of inputs to rat primary auditory cortex from the suprageniculate nucleus and extrastriate visual cortex

Evidence indicates that visual stimuli influence cells in primary auditory cortex. To evaluate potential sources of this visual input and how they enter into circuitry of the auditory cortex, we examined axonal terminations in primary auditory cortex from non-primary extrastriate visual cortex (V2M, V2L) and from the multimodal thalamic suprageniculate nucleus (SG). Gross biocytin/BDA injections into SG or extrastriate cortex labeled inputs terminating primarily in superficial and deep layers. SG projects primarily to layers I, V and VI, V2M and V2L project primarily to layers I and VI with V2L also targeting layers II/III. Layer I inputs differ in that SG terminals are concentrated superficially, V2L deeper and V2M are equally distributed throughout. Individual axonal reconstructions document that single axons can 1) innervate multiple layers, 2) run considerable distances in layer I, and 3) run preferentially in the dorsoventral direction similar to isofrequency axes. At the electron microscopic level SG and V2M terminals are 1) the same size regardless of layer, 2) non-GABAergic, 3) smaller than ventral medial geniculate terminals synapsing in layer IV and 4) make asymmetric synapses onto dendrites/spines which 5) are nonGABAergic and 6) are slightly larger in layer I. Thus, both areas provide a substantial feedbacklike input with differences that may indicate potentially different roles.
From 3D to reality: projector-based sculpture assistance system

Art is a creative process. Can it possibly be supported by a computational tool? Flagg et al. [Flagg et al. 2006] proposed that capture and access technology can provide a key form of computational support for the creative process. Following the idea, a projector-based sculpture guiding system was constructed. The system can scan 3D structures, compare the difference and display the information on the physical surface. The system consists of a projector and a camera. The camera is the Point Grey Chameleon USB camera. The resolution of the image is 1280x960. The projector is the NEC M300x which a resolution of 1024x768. To keep a fixed relationship between the projector and the camera, the camera is mounted on the projector.