cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A wedge diffraction based scattering model for acoustic scattering from rough littoral seafloors

Models for acoustic scattering from rough surfaces based on Biot and Tolstoy's (BT) exact wedge diffraction theory have proven accurate and useful in a number of experimental and numerical studies [1]. Because the BT solution is restricted to impenetrable wedges (acoustically hard or soft boundary conditions), scattering models based on the BT solution have thus far been limited to the rough air/sea interface where the actual boundary conditions are very nearly pressure-release (soft). Recently, important theoretical work [2,3] has extended the exact BT theory to density-contrast but isospeed wedges. This new development makes possible the application of wedge diffraction based scattering models to the roughness at the sea floor where the change in the acoustic impedance at the boundary is dominated by changes in density and only weakly affected by changes in sound speed. However, it is important to confirm that small amounts of sound speed contrast do not perturb the diffraction too much. To contribute to the understanding of how the diffracted wave is affected by sound speed contrast and get some idea as to the practical limitations of wedge-diffraction based scattering models for littoral seafloors, a simple numerical experiment involving a highly accurate Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) solution to the acoustic wave equation and a wedge-shaped boundary has been explored. This paper presents the results of FDTD experiments designed to quantify any changes in the diffracted field brought about by sound speed contrast. An ad hoc treatment of sound speed contrast is developed based on the requirement that the diffracted wave must smooth out the reflection discontinuity and preserve the continuity of the total field.
Both forest composition and configuration influence landscape-scale habitat selection by fishers (Pekania pennanti) in mixed coniferous forests of the Northern Rocky Mountains

Abstract Informed forest management and effective conservation planning require an understanding of how forest patterns influence wildlife species. The fisher ( Pekania pennanti ) is a wide-ranging, mesocarnivore species that occurs at low population densities and uses large tracts of forested lands in the western USA. Loss and fragmentation of forested habitats are considered primary threats to fisher populations, however, these factors influence two different components of landscape pattern: composition and configuration. We used data from 18 fishers fitted with Argos satellite transmitter collars to evaluate habitat selection at the landscape scale (i.e., 50–100 km 2 ) in north-central Idaho. We developed a set of a priori models about how fishers might respond to forest pattern and tested the hypothesis that both forest composition and configuration influence habitat selection by fishers at broad spatial scales. Model selection results indicated that a model incorporating metrics of both forest configuration and forest composition performed significantly better those that with either alone. Fishers selected landscapes for home ranges with larger, more contiguous patches of mature forest and reduced amounts of open areas. Landscapes that had ⩾50% mature forest arranged in connected, complex shapes with few isolated patches, and open areas comprising ⩽5% of the landscape characterized a forest pattern selected by fishers in our study. To evaluate how well different forest management histories in our study region might provide habitat for fishers, we compared metrics of forest composition and configuration within fisher home ranges with metrics from forests managed under three distinct management histories. Landscapes managed primarily for timber production and lands managed as roadless/wilderness had significantly more open areas, less mature forest, and reduced proximity of mature forest patches than occupied fisher home ranges. These results can be used to facilitate effective conservation of fishers through informed forest management planning.
Association of the N- and C-terminal domains of phospholipase D. Contribution of the conserved HKD motifs to the interaction and the requirement of the association for Ser/Thr phosphorylation of the enzyme.

Rat brain phospholipase D1 (rPLD1) belongs to a superfamily defined by the highly conserved catalytic motif (H(X)K(X)4D, denoted HKD. rPLD1 contains two HKD domains, located in the N- and C-terminal regions. The integrity of the two HKD domains is essential for enzymatic activity. Our previous studies showed that the N-terminal half of rPLD1 containing one HKD motif can associate with the C-terminal half containing the other HKD domain to reconstruct wild type PLD activity (Xie, Z., Ho, W.-T. and Exton, J. H. (1998)J. Biol. Chem. 273, 34679–34682). In the present study, we have shown by mutagenesis that conserved amino acids in the HKD domains are important for both the catalytic activity and the association between the two halves of rPLD1. Furthermore, we found that rPLD1 could be modified by Ser/Thr phosphorylation. The modification occurred at the N-terminal half of the enzyme, however, the association of the N-terminal domain with the C-terminal domain was required for the modification. The phosphorylation of the enzyme was not required for its catalytic activity or response to PKCα and small G proteinsin vitro, although the phosphorylated form of rPLD1 was localized exclusively in the crude membrane fraction. In addition, we found that the individually expressed N- and C-terminal fragments did not interact when mixed in vitro and were unable to reconstruct PLD activity under these conditions. It is concluded that the association of the N- and C-terminal halves of rPLD1 requires their co-expression in vivo and depends on conserved residues in the HKD domains. The association is also required for Ser/Thr phosphorylation of the enzyme.
Quantum physics: gentle measurement.

Ideally, measurement of the energy state of a single atom would set the atom to the measured state without affecting any of its other properties. This goal has now been achieved with the assistance of a small optical cavity. See Letter p.210
Approach to efficient storage, retrieval, and browsing of large-scale image databases

This paper suggests a wavelet transform based multiresolution approach as a viable solution to the problems of storage, retrieval and browsing in a large image database. We also investigate the performance of an optimal uniform mean square quantizer in representing all transform coefficients to ensure that the disk space necessary for storing a multiresolution representation does not exceed that of the original image. In addition, popular wavelet filters are compared with respect to their reconstruction performance and computational complexity. We conclude that, for our application, the Haar wavelet filters offer an appropriate compromise between reconstruction performance and computational efforts.
Fetal fibroblasts have greater connective tissue growth factor expression after TGF-beta stimulation than adult fibroblasts

Abstract Introduction: Scarless wound healing in fetal skin is mediated by the dermal fibroblast, but the mechanism remains largely unknown. We examined the differences of fetal and adult fibroblasts to respond to TGF-beta isoform stimulation. CTGF expression, a TGF-beta target, was quantitated after TGF-beta isoform treatment. Methods: Primary mouse fibroblast cultures at gestational days 16.5 (E17), 18.5 (E19), and 6 weeks (adult) were stimulated with 10ng/mL of TGF-beta 1, TGF-beta 2, or TGF-beta 3 for 24 hours. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed for CTGF mRNA expression. Results: At baseline, CTGF was reduced 0.5 and 0.7 fold in E17 and E19 fibroblasts compared to adult fibroblasts (p 70 fold in E17 fibroblasts. TGF-beta 1 also increased CTGF expression in E19 and adult fibroblasts, but expression was less than in the E17 fibroblasts (p 80 fold, >60 fold, and 10 fold in E17, E19, and adult fibroblasts respectively (p Conclusions: E17 and E19 fibroblasts have lower CTGF expression at baseline compared to adult fibroblasts. Early gestation fibroblasts increase CTGF expression to a greater degree than late gestation and adult fibroblasts after TGF-beta isoform stimulation, suggesting the signaling pathway for TGF-beta is functional early in development.
Siblings with infantile cerebral stroke and delayed multivessel involvement—A new hereditary vasculopathy?

We describe an unusual vasculopathy in two sisters of non-consanguineous parents. The first child developed an acute hemiparesis and focal seizures at the age of 6 months during a febrile illness. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain showed bilateral cortical-subcortical infarction not confined to a vascular territory. Subsequently, the child had a persistent stable neurological deficit. Her younger sister had a similar encephalitis-like episode at the age of 4 months, with left-sided cortical-subcortical ischaemic lesions. Two months later she had left-sided focal seizures. MRI showed a right-sided cortical enhancement, magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) was normal. The neurological deficit was stable and she was seizure free. These episodes were initially interpreted as metabolic strokes, but work-up was normal and mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) was excluded. In their teens both sisters were diagnosed with pulmonary and systemic hypertension and, due to the arterial hypertension, myocardial hypertrophy. Renal artery stenosis, pathological pulmonary arteries, and stenosis and rarefication of coronary arteries were found; the aorta and retinal vessels were normal. Repeat cranial MRI and MRA showed multiple collaterals, while the carotid and basilar arteries were extremely narrowed (moyamoya appearance). We suggest the diagnosis is a hereditary systemic vasculopathy of unknown origin.
Hydrogen sulfide consumption measured at low steady state concentrations using a sulfidostat.

Although >10 μM hydrogen sulfide typically is toxic to eukaryotic cells, <1 μM sulfide is rapidly consumed and oxidized. To measure sulfide consumption in such low concentrations, we built a “Sulfidostat.” The apparatus uses a sulfide-specific electrode to measure the concentration of free sulfide. The electrode is connected to a computer that controls a syringe pump. The pump injects Na2S solution into the sample chamber to maintain a constant concentration. Since the response of the electrode to low sulfide concentrations at neutral pH had not been previously validated, that was measured. Then using the Sulfidostat, the rate of sulfide consumption is the rate at which it is pumped into the sample to maintain a constant concentration. The protozoan Tetrahymena pyriformis was used to demonstrate the apparatus; maximum sulfide consumption occurred near 0.5 μM sulfide at a rate of 250 nmol (g protein)−1 s−1. That is higher than the rate calculated from the disappearance of sulfide following a bolus addition, a difference that can be explained by the slow response of the electrode and by reversible binding of sulfide by the cells. The Sulfidostat can measure sulfide consumption at concentrations lower than previously have been possible.
Recent advances in the diagnosis of the diseases of the thyroid.

Abstract Considerations are presented for the use of iodine and technetium radioisotopes, and tri-iodothyronine and thyroxine analyses for the assay of thyroid function.
Finite element analysis of impact behavior of sand

ABSTRACT The paper discusses the main aspects involved in numerical modeling of successive, large deformation, rigid body impacts in sand. The modeling was performed for the study of dynamic compaction of dry sand induced by repeated drops of a rigid tamper. Two dynamic finite element codes were used with a variety of soil models and computational algorithms. Large deformation effects and associated plastic behavior of the sand required special computational techniques of remeshing and reassignment of material properties. Consistency and stability of the formulations were evaluated based on their characteristics of convergency, accuracy, and computational efficiency. The adequacy of these models to represent actual soil behavior was evaluated by comparing computed results with available experimental data from an extensive laboratory investigation. The conclusions presented may serve as general guidelines relevant for this type of analysis.
Examining ‘active’ procrastination from a self-regulated learning perspective

This study examined the notion that active procrastinators are a positive type of procrastinators who possess desirable characteristics similar to non-procrastinators, but different from the traditional passive procrastinators. A two-step procedure was followed to categorise university students (N = 125) as active procrastinators, passive procrastinators and non-procrastinators. The results show that active procrastination was related mostly with the maladaptive motivational and behavioural characteristics described in the self-regulated learning literature. Active procrastinators reported low mastery-approach goal, high performance-avoidance and work-avoidance goal, and low intrinsic motivation and task value. They selected less effective strategies and performed the lowest on tests among the three groups. The results challenged the notion that active procrastination is conducive to learning. Future research directions and implications to teaching and learning are discussed.
Single T cell probes for antigen/MHC expression.

Abstract T-cell receptor binding to the antigen/MHC ligand on the surface of antigen-presenting cells is the central event in T-cell activation. Methods have been developed for measuring this recognition event in single T cells and have allowed their use as ‘probes’ for antigen/MHC expression. Single cell assays have allowed analysis of early events in T-cell activation, and of unknown ligands recognized by the T-cell receptor.
Age dependent response to exogenous estrogen on micturition, contractility and cholinergic receptors of the rat bladder

The age related effects of 17beta-estradiol (E) supplementation on micturition and contractility of ovariectomized rats (OVX) were evaluated. Studies were carried out in young, 2 month, and mature, 10 month old rats which were distributed into three groups: Sham-operated (SHAM), (OVX), and (OVX+E). Following treatment, urodynamic studies were performed followed by an in vitro bladder tissue evaluation. Urodynamic studies show age and time related changes in bladder function. The in vitro results show that the hormone deprived tissues of 2 months old rats had a decreased responsiveness to cholinergic stimulation; maximum contractile force occurred at 78% and 187% for the SHAM. The response from the OVX+E tissues was evident at 113%. E supplementation of the mature rats increased bladder contractile force to the same levels as SHAM (156% and 176%). The response of the mature OVX rats remained significantly below that of SHAM or OVX+E rats. Findings suggest that the impact of E on bladder function depends on age at which it is given. Differential response between young and mature to exogenous E indicates that endogenous estrogen plays a major role in the neuromuscular development of normal bladder function and micturition reflexes. Contractility data show that OVX in young rats irreversibly decreases the response of the bladder to cholinergic stimulation, suggesting that exogenous E partially restores function while in mature rats, exogenous E was able to reverse the effects of OVX.
Implementing an Assessment Clinic in a Residential PTSD Program.

Creating useful treatment plans can help improve services to consumers of mental health services. As more evidence-based practices are implemented, deciding what treatment, at what time, for whom becomes an important factor in facilitating positive outcomes. Readiness for trauma-focused treatments for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) such as Cognitive Processing Therapy or Prolonged Exposure Therapy may influence whether an individual can successfully complete either protocol. In addition, components of adjunctive therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy or Dialectical Behavior Therapy may be useful in moving a particular patient toward readiness and successful completion of treatment. Psychological assessment adds valuable data to inform these types of treatment decisions. This paper describes the implementation of a psychological assessment clinic in a residential PTSD treatment setting. Barriers to implementation, use of the data, and Veterans’ reactions to the feedback provided to them are included.
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIUS OF THE PION.

The elastic differential scattering cross sections, as well as inelastic cross sections, have been obtained for both ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{+}$ and ${\ensuremath{\pi}}^{\ensuremath{-}}$ on ${\mathrm{He}}^{4}$ at 129, 140, and 150 $\frac{\mathrm{MeV}}{c}$, using a 50-cm helium bubble chamber. Following the suggestion of Sternheim and Hofstadter, we have analyzed these data in order to obtain the Coulomb-nuclear interference term. From this, the Coulomb amplitude is deduced, which gives information on the pion charge distribution. The data are analyzed in terms of (a) Born Coulomb amplitude containing a combined Gaussian form factor for the pion and the $\ensuremath{\alpha}$ particle, (b) pure nuclear phases, and (c) the distortion of the nuclear phases due to the long-range nature of the Coulomb field. These qualities, along with the corresponding nuclear potentials, suitably fitted to our data, are presented. We measure the rms combined radius of the pion-${\mathrm{He}}^{4}$ system as $R=1.1\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.79$ F. This yields ${r}_{\ensuremath{\pi}}$, the rms radius for the pion, to be ${r}_{\ensuremath{\pi}}l0.9$ F.
HRD with a conscience: practicing socially responsible HRD

This paper defines organizational social consciousness, addresses stakeholder vs. stockholder needs, presents definitions of organizational social responsibility and defines socially conscious HRD. The paper concludes with a continuum for socially conscious HRD that incorporates: serving an educative and supportive role to help organizations uphold implied contracts and expectations of the organization, promoting ethical management and leadership, advocating for stakeholders, broadening definitions and measures of organization performance, challenging and revising socially ‘unconscious’ policies and practices, analysing and negotiating power relations, and promoting the use of organization resources to create social benefit and improve social welfare.
Purification and characterization of rat liver lysosomal cathepsin B2

Abstract 1. 1.|Cathepsin B2 was purified 3900-fold over homogenate with respect to the hydrolysis of N- benzoyl- l -arginine amide (Bz-Arg-NH2). Cathepsin B2 was shown to be a relatively nonspecific carboxypeptidase by virtue of its hydrolysis of N-blocked dipeptides. Only N-blocked dipeptides that contained proline, sarcosine, β-alanine, or d -amino acids were not hydrolyzed, which indicates a specificity for α- l -amino acids. The optimum hydrolysis of Bz-Arg-HN2 and N-blocked dipeptides by cathepsin B2 occurred at pH 5.5–5.6, with Km values in the range of 10–15 mM. Dipeptides were not hydrolyzed by cathepsin B2, but some tripeptides were hydrolyzed. A tetrapeptide (Leu-Trp-Met-Arg), a hexapeptide (Leu-Trp-Met-Arg-Phe-Ala), and glucagon were hydrolyzed by cathepsin B2 with the release of amino acids from the carboxyl terminus. Insulin A chain, insulin B chain, and bradykinin were ot hydrolyzed by cathepsin B2, perhaps owing to the presence of cysteic acid or proline residues near the carboxyl terminus. No endopeptidase activity of cathepsin B2 was found. Cathepsin B2 was activated by sulfhydryl compounds and inhibited by p-hydroxymercuribenzoate.
China-Taiwan Relations Through the Lens of the Interaction Between China’s Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits and Taiwan’s Straits Exchange Foundation

China-Taiwan Relations have become significantly less confrontational since 2008. One of the indicators demonstrating the improvement of their relations is the resumption of the contact between China’s Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Straits (ARATS) and Taiwan’s Straits Exchange Foundation (SEF) in 2008 after 9 years of no formal interaction. The purpose of this paper is to explore China-Taiwan relations in the period from 1990 to 2008 by examining the interaction between the aforementioned two organizations which were founded in 1991. By analyzing the relevant official announcements and statements made by China and Taiwan in the period from 1990 to 2008, this paper finds that China became more hostile toward Taiwan and therefore its ARATS in turn was unwilling to negotiate with Taiwan’s SEF when it perceived that the Taiwanese government was pushing for Taiwan’s independence. By contrast, when it perceived that the Taiwanese government was more compromising on the issue of Taiwan’s independence, it became relatively conciliatory and its ARATS in turn was more willing to interact with Taiwan’s SEF.
A combinatorial analog of the Poincaré Index Theorem

Abstract The local configurations of arrows in directed graphs mapped on surfaces are related to one another by a relationship analogous to the Poincare Index Theorem.
2006 Poetry Publication Showcase: selected titles

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to highlight a selection of poetry titles from the Poets House Showcase of 2006.Design/methodology/approach – This article provides reviews of selected titles from the 2006 Poets House Showcase.Findings – This review represents a wide‐ranging selection of contemporary poetry collections and anthologies.Originality/value – This list documents the tremendous range of poetry publishing from commercial, independent and university presses, as well as letterpress chapbooks, art books and CDs.
Classification of gunshot injuries in civilians

Gunshot injuries have become extremely prevalent among the United States civilian population because of increasing urban violence and the availability of handguns. However, the increasing prevalence of gunshot injuries in civilians dramatically contrasts with the paucity of scientific literature pertaining to the diagnosis, classification, and treatment of these injuries. The objective of the current study was to delineate the principal factors associated with gunshot injury severity in civilians, designate their importance in various injury patterns, and propose a new comprehensive classification system that may establish more uniform treatment approaches. The authors critically review existing gunshot injury classification systems with emphasis on the ballistic and clinical parameters that compose each system. The authors propose a new classification system based on five gunshot injury parameters: energy, vital structures involved, wound characteristics, fracture, and degree of contamination. This new classification scheme is applicable to all firearm injuries in civilians and assists with proper treatment selection. The proposed classification system is based on the authors' clinical experience in a Level I urban trauma center, and will require validation in a prospective clinical setting.
On high-order error criteria for system identification

A new family of algorithms has been considered for the purpose of identifying FIR (finite impulse response) systems by means of minimizing the sum of the output error to the degree 2K, K = 1, 2, . . . . A heuristic argument is presented to the effect that utilization of high-order error criteria (K > 1) will yield, in certain cases, considerable improvement in the performance (lower estimation error can be expected for the same amount of data). A simple approximate expression is derived which allows the choice of the most suitable value of K for the given application.
Biomedical uses and applications of inorganic chemistry. An overview

Abstract This article serves as an overview of the topics covered in this special issue dealing with aspects of biomedical inorganic chemistry. Topics include metal ions in disease (the use of chelating agents), metalloproteins as drug targets, organelles as targets (the mitochondrion), metal–drug interactions, metal-based chemotherapuetic drugs, and radioisotopes in medicine. The current activity and topical importance of these various areas are briefly discussed.
A PDMS-based gas permeation pump for on-chip fluid handling in microfluidic devices

We demonstrate a non-contact pumping mechanism for the manipulation of aqueous solutions within microfluidic devices. The method utilizes multi-layer soft lithography techniques to integrate a thin polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane that acts as a diffusion medium for regulated air pressure and a vacuum. Pressurized microchannels filter air through the PDMS membrane due to its high gas permeability causing a pressure difference in the liquid channel and generating flow. Likewise, a vacuum can be applied to pull air through the membrane allowing the filling of dead-end channels and the removal of bubbles. Flow rates vary according to applied pressure/vacuum, membrane thickness and diffusion area. A gas permeation pump is an inexpensive alternative to other micropumps. The pump is easily integrated with highly arrayed multi-channel/chamber applications for micro-total analysis systems, fluid metering and dispensing, and drug delivery. Flow rates of 200 nl min−1 have been achieved using this technique. Successful localized fluid turning at intersections, fluid metering and filling of dead-end chambers were also demonstrated.
Comparison of Ignited Arc Sources

A Bardocz BIG 210 ignited arc source was compared with a conventional ignited unidirectional arc and a Multisource for the analysis of lead alloys and the determination of boron in steel. The sources performed similarly except for the lead alloy analysis where the Bardocz source proved superior in repeatability and line-to-background ratio.
Contingent categorisation in speech perception

The speech signal is notoriously variable, with the same phoneme realised differently depending on factors like talker and phonetic context. Variance in the speech signal has led to a proliferation of theories of how listeners recognise speech. A promising approach, supported by computational modelling studies, is contingent categorisation, wherein incoming acoustic cues are computed relative to expectations. We tested contingent encoding empirically. Listeners were asked to categorise fricatives in CV syllables constructed by splicing the fricative from one CV syllable with the vowel from another CV syllable. The two spliced syllables always contained the same fricative, providing consistent bottom-up cues; however on some trials, the vowel and/or talker mismatched between these syllables, giving conflicting contextual information. Listeners were less accurate and slower at identifying the fricatives in mismatching splices. This suggests that listeners rely on context information beyond bottom-up acousti...
Application of quasi-conservative averaging to a non-linear system under non-white excitation

The method of quasi-conservative averaging was developed originally to treat the vibration of a system with a strongly non-linear stiffness and under white-noise excitation. The method is extended herein to the case of non-white broad-band excitation, using an energy-dependent white-noise approximation. The results are compared with those of a Fourier expansion technique developed earlier. The relative simplicity, accuracy and applicability of the two methods are compared.
Alcoholism in a Coronary Care Unit Population

To estimate prospectively the concordance between diagnoses of alcoholism by a physician and by use of a questionnaire-type screening test in patients in a coronary care unit, we studied 608 patients admitted to a coronary care unit in a 5 1/2-month period. The results from the Self-Administered Alcoholism Screening Test (SAAST) were compared with the diagnoses by physicians recorded in the medical records for the same patients. A strong association (P < 0.001) existed between the clinicians' identification of an alcohol problem and the SAAST scores indicative of such a problem. However, 23 (4.2%) patients were identified as alcoholics by the SAAST but not by clinicians, and 16 (2.9%) patients were identified as alcoholics by clinicians but not by the SAAST. The SAAST was well accepted in this coronary care unit and can complement and extend the clinicians' impression, although each approach may identify some patients that the other will miss. Routine use of the SAAST in the coronary care unit or other hospital settings is feasible and, with appropriate clinician assessment and physician involvement, should yield more complete evaluation and case finding for alcoholism.
Comparative endocrinology of steroid hormones in vertebrates.

Synopsis. Recent advances in biochemical techniques have resulted in considerable progress in the comparative qualitative analysis of non-mammalian vertebrate steroids. The literature surveyed herein suggests that a number of C21, C19, and C18 steroids oc? cur throughout the subphylum, although there may be important qualitative differences even among closely related forms. The potential importance, from a phylogenetic or a physiological standpoint, of new steroids recently characterized in fishes cannot be evaluated at present. Three widely used techniques?tissue extraction or incubation without added precursors, tissue incubation with exogenous steroid substrates, and the histochemical visualization of 3j8-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases?are discussed, and their application to the study of steroidogenic tissues is illustrated. The adrenocortical homologue (inter? renal), the ovary, and the testis appear to function as sources of steroid hormones in those vertebrates which have been examined. However, the existence of additional steroidogenic tissues, or of tissues which may modify the steroid composition of the body fluids in other ways, is also suggested. Studies of the "endocrinology" of a class of hormones such as the steroids encompass a wide variety of activities. These include: (1) qualitative analysis of hormonal ster? oids; (2) determination of the tissues of origin and of biosynthetic pathways; (3) analysis of alterations occurring subsequent to release from the tissues of origin (in? cluding association with carrier molecules, molecular modifications to produce "ac? tive" or "inactive" forms, and catabolism and disposal of circulating steroids); (4) quantitative study of circulating hormone levels, and of mechanisms of control (in? cluding mechanisms controlling rates of secretion, rates and form of distribution and of disposal); (5) functions of hormonal steroids; and (6) mechanisms of action of hormonal steroids.
Limit Order Adjustment Mechanisms and Ex-Dividend Day Stock Price Behavior

Unlike the NYSE, the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) does not adjust prices in the outstanding limit orders on ex-dividend days. We find that TSX ex-day stock price behavior differs from that on the NYSE in several key aspects. In each case, the TSX ex-day behavior is consistent with the lack of a limit order adjustment mechanism. Our findings confirm that market microstructure is an important factor that contributes to the observed Canadian ex-day price behavior. Our findings also resolve the puzzle of the relatively small ex-day price drop in Canada.
Human umbilical cord blood-derived f-macrophages retain pluripotentiality after thrombopoietin expansion

Abstract We have previously characterized a new type of stem cell from human peripheral blood, termed fibroblast-like macrophage (f-MΦ). Here, using umbilical cord blood as a source, we identified cells with similar characteristics including expression of surface markers (CD14, CD34, CD45, CD117, and CD163), phagocytosis, and proliferative capacity. Further, thrombopoietin (TPO) significantly stimulated the proliferation of cord blood-derived f-MΦ (CB f-MΦ) at low dosage without inducing a megakaryocytic phenotype. Additional experiments demonstrated that TPO-expanded cord blood-derived f-MΦ (TCB f-MΦ) retained their surface markers and differentiation ability. Treatment with vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF) gave rise to endothelial-like cells, expressing Flt-1, Flk-1, von Willebrand Factor (vWF), CD31, acetylated low density lipoprotein internalization, and the ability to form endothelial-like cell chains. In the presence of lipopolyssacharide (LPS) and 25 mM glucose, the TCB f-MΦ differentiated to express insulin mRNA, C-peptide, and insulin. In vitro functional analysis demonstrated that these insulin-positive cells could release insulin in response to glucose and other secretagogues. These findings demonstrate a potential use of CB f-MΦ and may lead to develop new therapeutic strategy for treating dominant disease.
Prostate specific antigen following radiotherapy for local prostate cancer.

AbstractThe clinical recurrence-free survival rates were compared to the combined clinical and biochemical recurrence-free survival rates in 285 patients with stages A2 (T1b), B (T2) and C (T3) prostate cancer treated with radiation therapy. For stages A2 (T1b) and B (T2) disease the 10-year clinical recurrence-free survival rate was 48 percent and the corresponding 10-year clinical and biochemical recurrence-free survival rate was 33 percent. For stage C (T3) disease these rates were 33 percent and 22 percent, respectively. These results demonstrate that approximately a third of the patients who are considered recurrence-free by standard clinical criteria at 10 years after radiation therapy have elevated prostate specific antigen values and are at significant risk for later clinical failure.
Alternative bisphosphonate targets and mechanisms of action.

As the number of bisphosphonates continues to increase, they have found widespread use in an increasing number of clinical conditions. Ongoing examination of their targets and mechanisms of action has revealed that this surprisingly diverse class of drugs has effects beyond those first described for osteoclasts. These additional targets include osteoblasts, osteocytes, angiogenesis, and γδ T lymphocytes of the human immune system. The immune system effects are specifically targeted to γδ T cells and are reminiscent of the effects seen after ingestion of tea beverage. BP effects on such alternate targets may explain not only their antiresorptive effect, but also their effect on bone quality, tumors, and microbes.
Uninformed Votes? Reappraising Information Effects and Presidential Preferences

Previous work on information effects and preferences has used the technique of statistical imputation to estimate the impact of political ignorance on presidential preferences, suggesting that the electorate would vote differently if more informed. In this paper, I challenge that assertion by disputing the extent to which the changes in preferences generated by imputation are interpretable as information effects. Using data from the 1992–2008 National Election Surveys, I show that the changes in preferences resulting from imputation fail to support a number of hypothesized relationships between political knowledge and preferences. I suggest that the resulting shifts in preferences are most likely attributable to the psychological traits of the more informed rather than to information itself.
Sister chromatid exchanges in adult epilepsy patients on valproate monotherapy

Sister chromatid exchanges (SCE) were studied in peripheral lymphocyte cultures of 13 adult male patients with epilepsy treated chronically with valproate (VPA) and in their matched controls. No statistically significant differences in SCE level were found between the patient and control groups, indicating a lack of mutagenic potential of VPA within the therapeutic dose range.
Numerical solution of a microbial growth model applied to dynamic environments.

Abstract The Baranyi and Roberts model is one of the most frequently used microbial growth models. It has been successfully applied to numerous studies of various microorganisms in different food products. Under dynamic conditions, the model is implicitly formulated as a set of two coupled differential equations which could be numerically solved using the Runge–Kutta method. In this study, a simplified numerical solution of the coupled differential equations was derived and used to simulate microbial growth under dynamic conditions in Microsoft Excel. As expected, the results obtained were the same as those from solving the coupled differential equations using a MATLAB Solver. In addition, model parameters were accurately identified by fitting the numerical solution to simulated growth curves under dynamic (time-varying) temperature conditions using the Microsoft Excel Solver.
Modeling the permeate transient response to perturbations from steady state in a nanofiltration process

Knowledge of the transient response to perturbations from steady state is of importance in treatment processes in order to predict the time required to achieve the maximum effect of any feed water concentration change. Experimentation was conducted to evaluate the membrane permeate transient response for single-stage and three-stage nanofiltration membrane systems when each system's feed water experienced a perturbation in water quality with a sudden increase in chloride. The transient response of a single nanofiltration membrane was described by a first order system with a time constant of 3.8 min. The transient response to a permeate concentration change in a nanofiltration membrane process was 99% realized in 7 min. Mathematical models were developed that accurately described permeate chloride concentrations as a function of time after a step-change occurred in feed water chloride concentration levels feeding the systems. Results indicate that first order modeling is satisfactory for the description of...
The X-ray crystal structure and physical properties of (BEDT-TTF) AuBr2Cl2

Abstract The X-ray crystal structure and electrical conductivity properties of a 1:1 BEDT-TTF salt containing (AuBr2Cl2)- are reported. The unit cell consists of square-planar gold (III) anions segregated by stacks of BEDT-TTF+ cations with a repeat pattern of 4.467(2) A along the crystallographic a axis. Four-probe variable-temperature conductivity measurements indicate that this material is a semiconductor with an activation energy of 0.13 eV. ESR measurements carried out on an oriented single-crystal specimen show a monotonic decrease in linewidth from 19 to 2.1 G over the temperature range 300-100 K.
First year experience of rotavirus immunisation programme in Finland.

Abstract Introduction This study aimed to estimate the impact of rotavirus (RV) immunisation programme on the total hospital treated acute gastroenteritis (AGE) burden, as well as, on severe RV disease burden in Finland during the first year after immunisation programme introduction. Such studies can also be considered as a vaccine-probe-study, where unspecific disease burden prevented by immunisation is assumed to be caused by the agent the vaccine is targeted against. Methods The RV related outcome definitions were based on data registered in the National Hospital Discharge Register coded using ICD 10 codes. Incidences of hospitalised and hospital outpatient cases of AGE and RVGE were compared prior (1999–2005) and after (2010) the start of the programme among children under 5 years of age. ICD 10 codes utilised were A00-A09, R11 and K52. Results The reductions in disease burden, when the post-introduction year was compared to pre-vaccine era, were 80.3% (95% CI 74.5–84.7) in hospital inpatient RVGE among toddlers less than 1 year of age and 53.9% (95% CI 49.8–57.7) when the total inpatient AGE burden was considered in the same age group. For the corresponding hospital outpatient cases the reductions were 78.8% (95% CI 48.4–91.3) and 12.5% (7.1–17.7). The overall vaccine impact against confirmed RVGE in age cohorts eligible for vaccination before the RV season 2010 was 97% (95% CI 90.7–99.0). If the total reductions, both in diagnosed RVGE, as well as in cases without definite microbial diagnosis, were expected to be RVGE, population based estimates for the total disease burden can be obtained: for inpatient RVGE in children less than 1 year of age the estimate is 10.5/1000 pyrs, while the diagnosed specific incidence was less than half of that, 4.9/1000 pyrs. Discussion During the first post-vaccination year 2010, RV immunisation programme clearly managed to control the severe, hospital treated, forms of RVGE. The total disease burden is a more valuable end point than mere diagnosed cases as laboratory confirmation practises change after vaccine introduction. Our study is limited by the very short post-introduction follow up.
Use of Early Lactation Days Open Records for Genetic Evaluation of Cow Fertility

National genetic evaluations for cow fertility were introduced by the USDA in February, 2003. These evaluations, reported as daughter pregnancy rate, are based on days open. One requirement of the evaluation system is that lactations be at least 250 d in milk (DIM) to be included for analysis. The objective of this research was to develop a predictor of days open, usable in genetic evaluation, to allow for earlier predicted transmitting abilities (PTA), especially for young bulls. The final prediction equation included an overall intercept, the effects of lactation and calving ease score, the linear and quadratic effects of age at calving, and a regression on days open based on last breeding. Data used for estimation were breeding records from 4 dairy records processing centers for the years 1995 through 1998. Genetic correlations were ≥0.91 by d 130, and phenotypic means of predicted days open were in agreement with means for final days open, indicating that the predictions were phenotypically unbiased. Comparison of mean PTA based on actual and predicted days open indicated no bias in PTA, and correlations between PTA were ≥0.92 by d 130. The earlier use of data increased reliability by about 5% for sires between the ages of 4 and 5 yr. The USDA began using predicted days open for records that are at least 130 DIM in national evaluations starting November, 2003.
Quantum oscillator with stable noise: Path integrals and fractal scaling.

We study the quantum oscillator perturbed by external random noise which imparts a series of kicks to the system: the kicks are Poisson distributed in time and the probability measure associated with the jump size is assumed to correspond to symmetric stable L\'evy distributions. The Feynman-Vernon theory of influence functionals yields a master equation for the density operator with a term related to the characteristic function of the measure associated with the jump distribution. A scaling argument shows that the constant associated with the external-noise-induced diffusion carries fractal space dimension 0l\ensuremath{\alpha}\ensuremath{\le}2. In the noise-dominated regime the system exhibits singularities for 0\ensuremath{\alpha}2 in contrast to the behavior for \ensuremath{\alpha}=2 corresponding to the Gaussian case.
In Situ Electron Microscopy Electromechanical Characterization of a Bistable NEMS Device

A previously proposed two-terminal carbon-nanotube-based device with closed-loop feedback is demonstrated through in situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) experiments. The pull-in/pull-out tests were carried out using a multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) welded to a conductive probe attached to a nanomanipulator. The MWCNTs were cantilevered over a gold electrode and electrostatically actuated. The measured current-voltage curves exhibited the theoretically predicted hysteretic loop between the pull-in and pull-out processes. Both experiments and theoretical modeling demonstrated the bistability of the device confirming its utility in applications such as memory elements, NEMS switches, and logic devices. Failure mechanisms observed during the pull-in/pull-out event are also reported and discussed.
Pneumatosis Intestinalis With a Focus on Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Pneumatosis intestinalis is a rare condition of air in the bowel wall. Pneumatosis intestinalis is most often secondary to another medical condition. The diagnosis is most often made radiologically with a computed tomography scan. The disease severity ranges from benign to life-threatening. Predictors of poor outcomes include pH less than 7.3, bicarbonate level of less than 20 mEq/L, lactate level of more than 2 mmol/L, amylase level of more than 200 U/L, and portal venous gas on imaging. Early recognition of life-threatening signs and symptoms is critical. Treatment options include bowel rest, antibiotics, surgery, and, more recently, the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is extremely safe, with no reported complications in the literature when used for pneumatosis intestinalis. When surgery is not emergently needed, symptomatic pneumatosis intestinalis can be safely treated with hyperbaric oxygen with a high likelihood of success without any considerable adverse effects.
Distribution of Rht Genes in Modern and Historic Winter Wheat Cultivars from the Eastern and Central USA

Over 70% of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivars grown worldwide have a semidwarf phenotype controlled by the major genes Rht-B1, Rht-D1, and Rht8c. The objective of this study was to determine their frequency in a set of historic and modern soft and hard winter wheat cultivars grown in the central and eastern USA. Three hundred sixty-two cultivars that were developed from 1808 to 2008 were evaluated with molecular markers for Rht-B1, Rht-D1, and Rht8c. All cultivars released before 1964 (41 soft winter wheat and 6 hard winter wheat) had wild-type (tall) alleles at all three loci. After introduction of the dwarfing genes, the percentage of tested lines carrying either Rht-B1b or Rht-D1b increased rapidly to greater than 90% of modern varieties. Among soft winter wheat cultivars, the Rht-D1b dwarfing gene was the most frequent being present in 45% of all lines tested and Rht-B1b was present in 28%, while in the hard winter wheat cultivars the Rht-B1b allele is the most prevalent in 77% of lines. Only 8% of the hard cultivars tested had the Rht-D1b allele. The presence of the 192-base pair (bp) allele of the microsatellite marker Xgwm261 indicated that Rht8c was less frequently used as a source of dwarfing in U.S. winter wheat germplasm, being present in 8 and 3% of the soft winter wheat and the hard winter wheats, respectively. A number of modern cultivars were identified that did not carry any of the dwarfing genes assayed and may possess alternative reduced height genes.
The ultrastructure of surface layers isolated from fertilized and chemically stimulated sea urchin eggs

Unfertilized sea urchin eggs bear short microvilli which are replaced after fertilization by new, longer microvilli; this process can also be stimulated by ammoniated glycerol. Since the microvilli are difficult to study ultrastructurally in intact eggs, we instead studied surface layers isolated from newly fertilized and glycerol-stimulated eggs. The plasma membrane of each isolated surface layer, which was formed into microvilli, had numerous thin (5–8 nm) microfilaments attached to it. In layers with shorter microvilli (averaging μ m) the thin microfilaments formed a continuous network attached at random to the plasma membrane; in layers with longer microvilli (averaging > 0.5 μ m) these microfilaments formed bundles that extended into each microvillus and probably attached to the microvillar membrane. The microfilaments were attached to the membrane's cytoplasmic face and occasionally to each other by 14- to 22-nm-diameter, ruthenium red-stainable dense particles. The thin microfilaments, which probably contain actin, through oriented, nonrandom attachments to the plasma membrane by these dense particles may bring about microvillar outgrowth and could help generate cortical contraction at fertilization.