cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Technical note on epoxy bonding of geotextiles

Abstract In order to transfer stress between geotextile panels the selvage edges are mechanically seamed by sewing. In light-to-medium-strength geotextiles (geotextiles with wide width tensile strengths of up to 175 kN/m (1000lb/in) it is possible to attain up to 80% efficiency in the final seamed product. Beyond this strength range the sewn seam efficiency is drastically reduced. For applications which require the use of high-strength geotextiles (i.e. soft soil stabilization) a designer is often limited by the seam strength between panels. This paper explores the use of chemical seaming as an alternative joining technique and presents results of a preliminary investigation on the performance of an epoxy resin used to lap seam a high-strength polyester geotextile.
System identification of nuclear reactor by dynamic data system methodology

A new modeling technique called Dynamic Data System (DDS) is used to identify the nuclear reactor dynamics using operating neutron flux data. The identification of the reactor dynamic characteristics is carried out by properly choosing the sampling interval and sample length. The internal lumped temperature feed-back time constant ?t can be identified from the operating data for the High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR) and the Oconee Power Reactor. The ?t value for the HFIR is found increasing from .08 sec. to .35 sec. during a 23 day fuel cycle operation. The ?t value for the Oconee reactor is found to be approximately 3 seconds. In addition, two abnormal frequency peaks are identified during the control rod bearing failure in HFIR. One frequency is always exactly twice as large in value as the other, e.g., 5.4 Hz vs. 2.7 Hz. These two frequencies are found shifting during the cycle operation.
Aipotu: Simulation from Nucleotides to Populations and Back Again

in several different colors, task only discover how these but also a plant with fl ower color. They begin by crossing plants to determine what these alleles interact. Students then investigate the biochemical mechanism behind color formation and the DNA sequences responsible for and information to engineer a transgenic plant strain with fl ower color. Finally, they undertake a long-term study evolution of fl ower color owerengineering project give students opportunity to develop and test in an authentic research environment. Unfortunately, the time, equipment, expertise required for this of experience
The Stimulation of Uterine Blood Flow by Various Estrogens

The response of the uterine vascular bed to various estrogens was investigated in nonpregnant, oophorectomized sheep utilizing electromagnetic flow probes chronically implanted around the uterine arteries. One M.g estradiol-β injected directly into the uterine artery produces a maximum flow response, approximately ten times baseline levels, which is reproducible on a daily basis for periods greater than 30 days. A family of dose response curves demonstrated the following potency for increasing uterine blood flow to 50% of maximum: estradiol-β > estriol > diethylstilbestrol > estradiol-17α > estrone > ent-estradiol- 17β. (Endocrinology 94: 1192, 1974)
Gas Chromatographic Analysis of Alliin in the Callus Tissues of Allium sativum

(1993). Gas Chromatographic. Analysis of Alliin in the Callus Tissues of Allium sativum. Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry: Vol. 57, No. 1, pp. 162-163.
Percutaneous endoscopic cystostomy for bladder localization and exact placement of a suprapubic tube.

AbstractPurpose: We describe a new technique for exact positioning and placement of a suprapubic tube.Materials and Methods: The bladder dome and its relative position on the lower abdomen are localized using a flexible cystoscope, light source and abdominal palpation.Results: The technique has been successfully used in patients who require long-term urinary drainage.Conclusions: Percutaneous endoscopic cystostomy is simple, effective and easily performed and it simplifies the placement of a suprapubic tube in the difficult to localize bladder.
Excavating Lefebvre: The right to the city and its urban politics of the inhabitant

Much current activism and scholarship has raised concern that the various processes of neoliberal restructuring are threatening democracy. More specifically, researchers in geography and other social sciences have stressed that political and economic restructuring in cities is negatively affecting the enfranchisement of urban residents. Much recent research and writing has explored progressive responses to this perceived disenfranchisement in cities. One popular trend has been a fascination with the idea of the `right to the city' as a way to respond to neoliberal urbanism and better empower urban dwellers. I argue that the right to the city holds promise, but that in the literature the idea remains both theoretically and politically underdeveloped. It remains unclear (1) what the right to the city entails or (2) how it might address current problems of disenfranchisement. This paper examines the right to the city in greater depth. It does so by offering a close reading and analysis of the intellectual roots of the idea: the writings of Henri Lefebvre. I suggest that Lefebvre's right to the city is more radical, more problematic, and more indeterminate than the current literature makes it seem. The paper concludes by suggesting that the right to the city does offer distinct potential for resisting current threats to urban enfranchisement. However, the right to the city is not a panacea. It must be seen not as a completed solution to current problems, but as an opening to a new urban politics, what I call an urban politics of the inhabitant.
Race and immigration in the New Ireland

The most serious deficiency of Race and Immigration in the New Ireland is a problem that is unfortunately shared by much of the literature on race and migration in Ireland, which is that commentato...
An agent-oriented information processing architecture for sensor network applications

In this paper, we present a hybrid, multi-layered, agent-based architecture for distributed sensor networks. We propose a middleware that integrates the programmable application layer consisting of software agents with the physical layer consisting of extremely small, low-powered sensor nodes. We discuss two major middleware components, namely, C3L: a distributed command and control language with its interpreter and STACS: a programmable controller synthesiser. We explain how C3L can be used to command and control sensor network operations and STACS to configure the behaviour of a node. We provide frameworks for communication, mobility and data management, as primary means for information dissemination and fusion. We suggest an agent model that integrates the software agents of the application with the hardware agents of the physical environment. We describe a simplified, integrated surveillance experiment to illustrate an implementation of this information processing architecture. Finally, we conclude with an insight to future challenges.
SU‐E‐T‐32: Monte Carlo Determination of WAFAC Corrections for the Canadian LDR Primary Standard

Purpose: Determine correction factors for a wide angle free‐air chamber (WAFAC) using Monte Carlo techniques for the realization of the air‐kerma strength, Sk, for low dose rate (LDR) 125 I and 103Pd brachytherapy sources. This WAFAC will become the Canadian primary standard for LDR brachytherapy sources. Methods: The EGSnrc user‐code egsfac is used for estimating the correction factors required to determine the air‐kerma at the WAFACs point of measurement (POM) using MC simulation for a 125 I and a 103Pd source. The geometry library egs++ allows simulation of the sources and the WAFAC in detail. Spectra are taken from the most recently published data. Air and aluminum attenuation curves for the 125 I seed were also measured with the WAFAC. Results: Correction values compared with those reported by NIST for its LDR primary standard (of very similar design) are in excellent agreement when using the NIST approach of assuming an isotropic point source and using experimental main spectrum lines. Differences in both methodologies for determining the WAFAC corrections are discussed and their impact evaluated. The effect of the source and the holder on the scatter correction is quantified separately. The calculations resulted in a modification of the design to reduce collimator transmission. A 3.2 mm lead sheet was added behind the WAFAC aperture, attenuating the 1251 and the 103Pd photon beams to less than 0.02 %. MC attenuation curves for air and aluminum for the 125 I seed are in good agreement with experimental data. The largest correction is the aluminum filter attenuation which can be as large as 4 %. Conclusion: Despite an inconsistency in the scatter estimation, the NIST approximation has little impact on the determination of Sk. The scatter correction is sensitive to the collimation system dimensions. Using MC‐based air and aluminum attenuation corrections for the 125 I seed is experimentally justified.
Thermic effect of a meal over 3 and 6 hours in lean and obese men.

Controversy regarding defective postprandial thermogenesis in obesity may partly be due to methodological factors such as duration of measurement. To clarify further the role of blunted thermogenesis in obesity, the thermic effect of food was compared in seven lean (mean ± SEM, 15.7% ± 1.5% body fat, by densitometry) and seven obese men (37.3% ± 3% fat) over 3 and 6 hours. The groups were matched for age (35 ± 2 and 33 ± 2 years for the lean and obese groups; range, 25 to 39 years), fat-free mass (FFM), and aerobic fitness. Resting metabolic rate (RMR) was measured by indirect calorimetry for 6 hours on two mornings, in randomized order: (1) after a 720-kcal liquid mixed meal, which was 24% protein, 21% fat, and 55% carbohydrate; and (2) in the postabsorptive state. The thermic effect of food, calculated as postprandial minus postabsorptive RMR, was significantly greater for the lean than obese men for the first 3 hours of measurement (67 ± 6 v 49 ± 3 kcal3 hours; P < .01). During the second 3 hours, the thermic effect of food was marginally, but not significantly, greater for the lean than obese men (34 ± 8 v 20 ± 4 kcal3 hours; P = .10, NS). Over the entire 6 hours, the thermic effect of food was significantly greater for the lean than obese men (100 ± 12 v 69 ± 5 kcal6 hours; P < .05). Three hours after the meal the increment above fasting RMR was greater for the lean than obese men (28% ± 7% v 13% ± 3% above fasting; P < .05). However, 6 hours after the meal the elevation above fasting RMR was not significantly different between the lean (6% ± 3%) and obese men (0% ± 2%). These results indicate that the thermic effect of food is neither delayed nor more prolonged in obese compared with lean men and provide further evidence for defective thermogenesis in obesity.
Spectroscopic Characterization of L-ascorbic Acid-induced Reduction of Vanadium(V) Dipicolinates: Formation of Vanadium(III) and Vanadium(IV) Complexes from Vanadium(V) Dipicolinate Derivatives

Abstract A Br-substituted dioxidovanadate dipicolinate complex was prepared and structurally characterized by X-ray crystallography. The counter ion in the solid state is the ammonium cation in a monoclinic crystal cell with, P 2(1)/ c . The X-ray structure is similar to the structure generated from the analogous nitro substituted dipicolinate ligand. When exploring reactions of this and other dipicolinate-containing compounds with L -ascorbic acid, both vanadium(IV) and vanadium(III) species were formed under acidic conditions; then identified by conventional (X-band) and high-frequency and -field electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. A reaction with half an equivalent of L -ascorbic acid led to the formation of vanadium(IV) species, and addition of substituents (X = H, Cl, Br, OH, and NH 2 ) in the para position of dipicolinic acid did not have a major effect on the vanadium(IV) species formed. In a reaction with excess L -ascorbic acid and vanadium(V)dipic-X complexes (where X = H, Cl, Br, OH, and NH 2 ), vanadium(III) species were observed, thus proving that vanadium(III) species can be formed under acidic conditions resembling those in biological systems.
Can neoclassical economics be social economics

This retrospective suggests that it is best not to generalize that there is invariably a dichotomy between neoclassical and social economics, but to address the question in terms of individual economic thinkers. Belief in the virtues of the market and concern about identifying determinate optimal equilibrium solutions to problems does not necessarily preclude systematic criticism of the excesses of competition and recommendation of controls in the interest of the social whole. While Alfred Marshall, the founder of the neoclassical tradition, was typically reticent about offering policy prescriptions, this is not the case for his successor, A.C. Pigou. Analogously, there are contemporary thinkers, in particular Ronald Coase and William Baumol, who are neoclassical in their search for optimal free market solutions with full cognizance of the sometimes adverse effects of the price system. But the same claim cannot be made on behalf of “new classicals,” for their research program is to construct artificial or “robot” economic systems based on postulates of market clearing and self interest. Their quest for technical sophistication conceals an inherent ideological anti-policy bias.
Indirectly formed matrix for multiple composite core restorations: Two clinical treatments illustrating an expanded technique

The technique described in this report is an expansion of a previously reported intraoral procedure for directly developing a matrix for the fabrication of composite cores. The expanded method allows a matrix to be created indirectly after the involved teeth are trimmed or restored on a cast into slightly oversized crown preparations before the treatment visit. The cast may serve for both the matrix and the interim fixed restoration, enabling fabrication by the dental laboratory. A semirigid (occlusal registration) elastomeric material is used to form the matrix. The matrix is used to apply the composite and shape the cores after the abutment teeth have been prepared, pins or posts have been placed, and adhesive procedures have been implemented. The elastomeric matrix can be modified for use as the impression matrix. The described technique allows the simultaneous formation of multiple composite cores. An alternative method in which light-polymerized core composite is used with a vacuum-formed, dual-laminate transparent matrix is described and compared with the semirigid elastomeric matrix.
Defective Chorioallantoic Fusion in Mid-gestation Lethality of Parthenogenone ⇔ Tetraploid Chimeras

Previous studies of parthenogenetic embryos revealed severe perturbations of both embryonic and extraembryonic tissue lineages during postimplantation development. The majority of pure parthenogenetic concepti have no recognizable axis and exhibit preferential terminal differentiation of their trophectoderm and primitive endoderm. To further define the role of the extraembryonic lineages in parthenogenetic development, we provided them with zygote-derived extraembryonic tissues by aggregating them with fertilized tetraploid embryos. On Day 12 of combined in vitro and in vivo development, most of the embryos proper in these chimeras were entirely derived parthenogenetically, whereas their trophectoderm and primitive endoderm tissues were derived from the tetraploid component. No Igf2 expression was detected in the parthenogenetic embryo proper, indicating that imprinting was manifested in such chimeras. Typical development of the parthenogenetic embryo proper was markedly improved in comparison with pure parthenogenetic concepti, with such chimeras attaining an average of 23 somites (range, 10 to 35). However, most of the chimeras died abruptly at Day 13, and all were being resorbed at Day 14 of development. The gross normality of axial structures and organ development suggests that a major cause of failure of these chimeric parthenogenones to survive beyond mid-gestation was due to defective chorioallantoic fusion. Our results indicate that the severe perturbation of axial development seen in most pure parthenogenetic concepti is a secondary consequence of the effects of parthenogenesis on the trophectoderm and primitive endoderm lineages. Moreover, the mid-gestation death of parthenogenetic embryos proper despite the presence of zygote-derived tetraploid tissues implicates extraembryonic mesoderm in manifesting the effects of genomic imprinting.
Deuterium labelling of the antidepressant drug doxepin for disposition studies in human subjects

Two methods have been developed for the introduction of deuterium into the doxepin molecule. The key intermediate (6,11-dihydro-1,2,3,4-2H4-dibenz[b,e]oxepin-11-one, 5) was prepared by condensation of ethyl 2-bromomethylbenzoate with [2H6]-phenol, saponification of the resulting ester, and dehydration with trifluoroacetic anhydride. Using this key intermediate, E-(1,2,3,4)-2H4-doxepin was prepared for administration to human subjects. (1,2,3,4)-2H4-N-desmethyldoxepin, (1,2,3,4,1′,2′,2′)-2H7-doxepin, (1,2,3,4)-2H4-(N2H3)2-doxepin (2H10-doxepin) and (1,2,3,4,1′,2′,2′)-2H7-N-desmethyldoxepin were also prepared for use as internal standards in GC/MS assays. The deuterated compounds contained less than 0.5% protium impurity.
Pharmacokinetics of ionized versus total magnesium in subjects with preterm labor and preeclampsia.

Abstract Objective: Intravenous magnesium sulfate is widely used in obstetrics for the treatment of both preterm labor and preeclampsia. Although therapeutic levels of total magnesium have been proposed, the levels remain controversial. Because the active form of magnesium is the free or ionized form, it is essential to determine whether ionized magnesium and total magnesium levels are highly correlated in vivo. We sought to examine the correlation between ionized magnesium and total magnesium under basal and therapeutic conditions and to define the initiation and elimination pharmacokinetics of both forms during intravenous magnesium sulfate infusion. Study design: Twenty-four singleton pregnant patients who were candidates for magnesium sulfate were studied (preterm labor, 15; preeclampsia, 9). Serial blood samples were taken before the magnesium sulfate infusion, during the first 4 hours after the initiation of magnesium sulfate infusion and for 4 hours after the discontinuation of the infusion. Results: Baseline levels of total magnesium and ionized magnesium were not different between patients with preterm labor and with preeclampsia. Among patients with preeclampsia, although not patients with preterm labor, the initial apparent volume of distribution was significantly smaller for total magnesium than for ionized magnesium (16,397 ± 1441 vs 23,856 ± 2745 mL, respectively; P =.03), and the elimination half-life was greater for total magnesium as compared to ionized magnesium (707 ± 160 vs 313 ± 29 minutes; P Conclusion: The measurement of total magnesium may not be adequate for the titration of therapeutic magnesium infusions in patients with preeclampsia or preterm labor because of the lack of correlation between total magnesium and the physiologically active ionized magnesium. Further studies may determine whether the measurement of ionized magnesium is a superior method for following the adequacy and safety of the treatment of preeclampsia and preterm labor. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2002;186:1017-21.)
Measurements of Radiation Effects on Optoelectronics Conducted by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory

This paper reports radiation test results for variety of optoelectronic devices that includes LEDs, optocouplers, and photo transistors. The data was collected to evaluate these devices for possible use in NASA spacecrafts
Tunneling through molecules and quantum dots: Master-equation approaches

An important class of approaches to the description of electronic transport through molecules and quantum dots is based on the master equation. We discuss various formalisms for deriving a master equation and their interrelations. It is shown that the master equation derived by K\"onig et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 76, 1715 (1996); Phys. Rev. B 54, 16820 (1996)] is equivalent to the Wangsness-Bloch-Redfield master equation. The roles of the large-reservoir and Markov approximations are clarified. At low temperatures, when the quasiparticle lifetime becomes large, the Markov approximation can be derived from the assumption of weak tunneling under certain conditions. Interactions in the leads are shown to be irrelevant for the transport in the case of momentum-independent tunneling. It is explained why the $T$-matrix formalism gives incomplete results except for diagonal density operators to second order in the tunneling amplitudes. The time-convolutionless master equation is adapted to tunneling problems and a diagrammatic scheme for generating arbitrary orders in the tunneling amplitudes is developed.
The polymerization of 8-azaguanosine 5-diphosphate by polynucleotide phosphorylase.

Abstract 8-Azaguanosine 5′-diphosphate serves as a substrate for polynucleotide phosphorylase. The terminal phosphate of the nucleoside diphosphate undergoes an exchange with [ 32 P]orthophosphate in the presence of an enzyme preparation from Micrococcus lysodeikticus . This exchange is stimulated 5-fold by the addition of primer pApApA. In comparison, a similar 32 P exchange with GDP is stimulated 25-fold in this system. In the presence of primer pApA and pApApA, 8-azaguanosine 5′-diphosphate is polymerized by highly purified polynucleotide phosphorylase isolated from Azotobacter agilis . An average chain-length of 10 mononucleotide units has been obtained. Exposure of poly azaguanylic acid to exhaustive digestion by pancreatic ribonuclease and takadiastase-T 1 -ribonuclease results in virtually complete degradation, the primary products being AzaG-2′,3′- P (cyclic), AzaG-3′(2′)- P (non-cyclic) and AzaGAzaG-2′,3′- P (cyclic).
Female Education, Modernity, and Fertility in India

This paper investigates the effect of female education and modernity on general fertility. Evidence from available data indicates that education of females has a significant effect on fertility after controlling for the effcct of modernity and some other factors. On the other hand, modernity is not found to have an independent effcct on the number of live births after controlling for education, infant mortality, and age at marriage. A significant relationship is seen between infant mortality and fertility. Thus, policies aimed at increasing the female education and reducing the infant mortality hold the key to reducing the fertility.
Study of Hydrogen Sorption and Desorption by Cast and Rapidly Quenched ZR–V Alloys

We study the processes of hydrogen absorption and desorption by Zr–V alloys of different compositions in the as-cast state and in the state obtained after rapid quenching from the melt. It is shown that the characteristics of sorption–desorption of cast alloys are better than the corresponding of rapidly quenched alloys.
Application of a sequential multicomponent assembly process/huisgen cycloaddition strategy to the preparation of libraries of 1,2,3-triazole-fused 1,4-benzodiazepines.

A strategy featuring a multicomponent assembly process followed by an intramolecular azide–alkyne dipolar (Huisgen) cycloaddition was implemented for the facile synthesis of three different 1,2,3-triazolo-1,4-benzodiazepine scaffolds. A diverse library of 170 compounds derived from these scaffolds was then created through N-functionalizations, palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions, and several applications of α-aminonitrile chemistry.
Lattice dynamics and thermodynamic properties of NaAlH 4 : Density-functional calculations using a linear response theory

We present a first-principles investigation of the lattice dynamics and thermodynamical properties of a complex hydride ${\mathrm{NaAlH}}_{4}$, a promising material for hydrogen storage. The calculations are performed within the density-functional-theory framework and using a linear response theory. Calculations of the phonon spectrum, Born effective charges ${Z}^{*}$, and dielectric constants in high and low frequency limits are reported. The mode characters of the zone-center phonons, including the LO-TO splitting, are identified and compared to the experiment. The quasiharmonic approach is used to study thermal expansion as well as the mean square displacement of each atom as a function of temperature. A connection is established between the latter and the melting point. The inclusion of the zero-point motion leads to an expanded lattice compared to the static lattice, while the low frequency oscillations are found to play an important role in the melting and decomposition of ${\mathrm{NaAlH}}_{4}$.
Cognitive predictors of mortality in elderly retirees: results from the Freedom House study.

Objective The objective of this longitudinal cohort study was to study the cognitive domains associated with five-year longitudinal survival among healthy, well-educated, noninstitutionalized elderly. Methods Survival curves were generated as a function of cross-sectional baseline cognitive test performance. Results Nonverbal tests were significantly associated with survival. This finding was markedly consistent. Several nonverbal tasks were each significantly associated with survival independently of age, gender, baseline level of care, and healthcare utilization. In a multivariate model, copying a clock made the strongest, independent contribution to survival. Conclusions Right hemisphere integrity in general and nonverbal drawing tasks in particular have been associated with survival in conditions as diverse as Alzheimer disease, stroke, and epilepsy. This study extends this association to "normal" aging. The mechanism by which nonverbal cognitive function is related to mortality remains unclear but may be mediated by changes in right hemisphere cortical control of autonomic function. Nondemented older persons may be at risk. Clock drawing may provide a simple means of identifying them.
Noise Comparison of RF Photonic Filters Based on Coherent and Incoherent Multiwavelength Sources

A filtered microwave photonic (MWP) link implemented with an optical frequency comb as a multitap optical source offers a significant improvement in noise characteristics when compared to a spectrally sliced broadband incoherent source with the same number of taps and identical tap delay. Our results show that frequency combs also enable a better use of the optical bandwidth for filtering with minimum noise-induced fluctuations. These results highlight the potential of optical frequency comb technology to operate over large distances in MWP filter links.
Infrasound from hurricanes: Dependence on the ambient ocean surface wave field

[1] Infrasound signals in the microbarom band (about 0.2 Hz) generated by hurricanes often do not appear to originate near the eye where the winds are strongest. This paper suggests that conditions conducive to microbarom (and microseism) generation can occur along the trailing periphery of the storm through the interaction of the storm-generated wavefield with the ambient swell field, resulting in detection bearings that vary from the center of the storm by up to 20 degrees. Infrasound data from Typhoon Usagi (2007) is presented that supports this theory.
AFLP analysis of genetic relationships among Calathea species and cultivars

Abstract C alatheas (Calathea Mey.) have been largely produced as ornamental foliage plants for interiorscaping due to their brilliant patterns of leaf color and different leaf textures as well as the ability to tolerate low light levels. Genetic relationships among Calathea species and cultivars, however, have not been documented. This study analyzed the genetic relatedness of 34 commonly grown cultivars across 15 species using amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) markers with near-infrared fluorescence-labeled primers. Six EcoRI + 2 bases/MseI + 3 bases primer set combinations were used in this investigation. Each selected primer set generated 105–136 scorable fragments. A total of 733 AFLP fragments were detected, of which 497 were polymorphic (67.8%). An unweighted pair-group method of the arithmetic averages (UPGMA), principal coordinate analysis (PCOA), and bootstrap analysis were used to analyze the genetic relationships. The 34 cultivars were separated into four clusters. Cluster I contains 19 cultivars that are either from C. roseopicta or C. loesnerii with Jaccard's similarity coefficients ranging from 0.51 to 0.99. Among the 19 cultivars, at least nine are derived from somaclonal variants or sports. Only C. kennedeae ‘Helen’ is positioned in cluster II. Cluster III has 10 cultivars across seven species; Jaccard's similarity coefficients varied from 0.26 to 0.63. Four species are situated in cluster IV with Jaccard's similarity ranging from 0.19 to 0.41. This study establishes the genetic relationships of commonly cultivated calatheas, provides genetic evidence supporting that C. fasciata, C. orbifolia, C. rotundifolia, C. insignis, and C. ornata are independent species, and raises a concern over genetic vulnerability of cultivars in cluster I because of their close genetic similarities.
A solution of the variational equations for elliptic orbits in rotating coordinates

For elliptic reference orbits, formulas are given for the perturbation state transition matrix of the two-body problem. The formulas relate perturbations expressed in a local vertical rotating coordinate system and are valid for motion in the linear neighborhood of reference orbits with e in the range of 0 to 1. The elements of the state transition matrix are expressed in terms of natural parameters (horizontal and radial velocity, radius, eccentricity, true anomaly, etc.) at the initial and final points. In addition to the general form, a simplified version, valid for small eccentricity orbits, is given.
Stepwise RNP assembly at the site of H/ACA RNA transcription in human cells

Mammalian H/ACA RNPs are essential for ribosome biogenesis, premessenger RNA splicing, and telomere maintenance. These RNPs consist of four core proteins and one RNA, but it is not known how they assemble. By interrogating the site of H/ACA RNA transcription, we dissected their biogenesis in single cells and delineated the role of the non-core protein NAF1 in the process. NAF1 and all of the core proteins except GAR1 are recruited to the site of transcription. NAF1 binds one of the core proteins, NAP57, and shuttles between nucleus and cytoplasm. Both proteins are essential for stable H/ACA RNA accumulation. NAF1 and GAR1 bind NAP57 competitively, suggesting a sequential interaction. Our analyses indicate that NAF1 binds NAP57 and escorts it to the nascent H/ACA RNA and that GAR1 then replaces NAF1 to yield mature H/ACA RNPs in Cajal bodies and nucleoli.
Multi-scale analysis of HRV data

The inverse power-law or 1/f/sup /spl alpha// type attenuation of the normal Heart Rate Variability (HRV) spectrum suggests that HRV exhibits self-similar fluctuations over a multiplicity of scales. Such behavior is best characterized by measures which capture the scale-invariant nature of the signal. In this pilot study, the authors investigate the use of the discrete wavelet transform as a multi-scale decomposition tool to monitor the statistical scale-invariant properties of the healthy HRV expressed both versus beat number and time. The objective is to develop an understanding of the statistical scale-invariant structure of the signal in the wavelet domain for potential use in clinical applications.
Innervation of enteric mast cells by primary spinal afferents in guinea pig and human small intestine.

Mast cells express the substance P (SP) neurokinin 1 receptor and the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor in guinea pig and human small intestine. Enzyme-linked immunoassay showed that ...
Sleep Complaints in Older Women Who Are Family Caregivers

Providing care to a family member with dementia has significant psychological and physical consequences. Sleep quality is likely affected by caregiving, yet this domain has received surprisingly little empirical study. In this study, sleep complaints were examined in 90 older women who were family caregivers of adults with dementia. Caregivers reported more sleep complaints than similarly aged healthy adults on all seven components of the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and a similar level of sleep complaints to those of sleep-impaired women and depressives on 6 and 4 components, respectively. Sleep medication was used by 38% of caregivers in the past month. The most common sleep complaints that occurred at least weekly were waking up in the night or early morning (84%), bathroom needs (83%), and sleep onset difficulties (41%). Sixty percent of the sample reporting nighttime care recipient disruptions stated that these disruptions occurred 3 or more times per week. Caregiver relationship and care recipient diagnosis were unrelated to sleep complaints. Lower levels of education, less internalized anger, care recipient disruptions, and psychological distress were related to poorer overall sleep quality. Sleep complaints are a common yet understudied problem in family caregivers.
Cross-cultural use of the semantic differential.

Osgood's semantic differential is a way to discover where any word is located in a conceptual space whose dimensions are meanings rather than real-world distances. It seems likely that the space of meanings would differ from culture to culture just as it probably does somewhat from individual to individual. Here is an example of interdisciplinary research—the use of a proven psychological measuring instrument such as the semantic differential with data that have traditionally been the concern of anthropology. In addition to expanding the range of research techniques for another discipline, such cross-cultural studies are of value for a fuller understanding of the limits within which the instrument is effective; they refine and improve research methods.
Genetic Risk and Carcinogen Exposure: a Common Inherited Defect of the Carcinogen-Metabolism Gene Glutathione S-Transferase M1 (GSTM1) That Increases Susceptibility to Bladder Cancer

Background Numerous studies have associated bladder cancer with exposure to carcinogens present in tobacco smoke and other environmental or occupational exposures. Approximately 50% of all humans inherit two deleted copies of the GSTM1 gene which encodes for the carcinogen-detoxification enzyme glutathione S-transferase M1. Recent findings suggest that the GSTM1 gene may modulate the internal dose of environmental carcinogens and thereby affect the risk of developing bladder cancer. Purpose We investigated whether the absence of the GSTM1 gene affects bladder cancer risk and whether there are racial differences in GSTM1 genotype frequency. Methods Using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method, we examined the frequency of the homozygous deleted genotype (GSTM1 0/0) in 229 patients with transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder and 211 control subjects who were enrolled from the Urology Clinics at Duke University Medical Center and the University of North Carolina Hospitals. Control subjects were urology clinic patients who primarily presented with benign prostatic hypertrophy or impotence, who had no history of any cancer other than nonmelanoma skin cancer, and who were frequency matched to case patients on race, sex, and age (10-year age intervals). In order to explore racial differences in GSTM1 gene frequency, genotype was also determined in a community-based sample of 466 paid, healthy, unrelated volunteers from Durham and Chapel Hill, N.C. The presence or absence of the GSTM1 gene locus was determined by using a differential PCR, a semiquantitative technique in which multiple genes are coamplified. Results Overall, the GSTM1 0/0 genotype conferred a 70% increased risk of bladder cancer (odds ratio [OR] = 1.7; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.2-2.5; P = .004). Absence of the GSTM1 gene encoding the glutathione S-transferase M1 enzyme significantly increased risk to persons with exposure to the carcinogens in tobacco smoke (OR = 1.8; 95% CI = 1.2-3.0; P = .01) but poses little increased risk to persons without such exposure. Persons with smoking exposure of more than 50 pack-years who had the GSTM1 0/0 genotype had a sixfold greater risk relative to persons in the lowest risk group (i.e., nonsmokers who were GSTM1 +/+ or +/0). In the pooled clinic control and community sample groups (677 individuals), the GSTM1 0/0 genotype occurred less frequently among Blacks (35%) than among Whites (49%, P Conclusions These findings support a protective role for the GSTM1 gene in bladder cancer. From these findings, it is estimated that 25% of all bladder cancer may be attributable to the at-risk GSTM1 0/0 genotype.
Rayleigh Wave Phase Velocities in the Atlantic Ocean

Summary The phase velocities of Rayleigh waves are found for many paths in the north Atlantic. The single station technique is used with earthquakes in the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The major contributor to the error in phase velocity is the uncertainty in epicentral location and origin time. Focal depth and mechanism are sufficiently well controlled for these events that they do not significantly add to the phase velocity error. The resulting uncertainty is ± 0.02 km s−1 for the period range 20-100 s. The ocean is regionalized into ridge and basin. Both ray theory and Rytov's method are used to extract the dispersion characteristics of each region from the observations. Large lateral variations of the basin dispersion suggest a further subdivision. These variations can be explained entirely by variations in sediment thickness. The deduced upper mantle model of the ocean basin is characterized by a shear velocity reversal at 40 km depth with a lid shear velocity of 4.7 km s−1. The lowest shear velocities are centered at a depth of 125 km. The lid shear velocity can be reduced to 4.6 km s−1 only if both the thickness of the lid increases and the density increases. Phase velocities for the Mid-Atlantic Ridge imply that the upper mantle shear velocity under the ridge is significantly lower than that under the ocean basin at depths greater than 20 km.
The Liberal Hour: Washington and the Politics of Change in the 1960s

The Liberal Hour: Washington and the Politics of Change in the 1960s G. CALVIN MACKENZIE and ROBERT WEISBROT, 2008 New York: Penguin Press 377pp. Acknowledgements, notes, index. $18.00 In this well...
Experimental Examination of a Thin Market: Price Behavior in a Declining Terminal Market Revisited

Perceived characteristics of thin markets are described and approaches to furthering their study are suggested. Design features of a laboratory thin market, patterned after a typical livestock marketmg situation, are described. Price bias and variation from a “thick” private negotiation market with 22 traders is compared to that from a “thin” auction market with 8 traders. No systematic price bias was found m any of the markets. Price variation was actually lower in the thin auction market.
Fibromatous periorchitis of testis.

Abstract Fibrous pseudotumors of the tunica vaginalis, epididymis, and spermatic cord are uncommon benign paratesticular masses. An extremely rare variant termed “fibromatous periorchitis” exhibits diffuse proliferative encasement of the testis and manifests grossly as an indurated testis reminiscent of malignancy. We present the case of a 25-year-old man who presented with a grossly abnormal testicular examination and benign scrotal ultrasound findings and pathologic evidence of fibromatous periorchitis. The natural history, gross and histologic findings, and management of fibrous pseudotumors and fibromatous periorchitis are discussed.
Feasibility of Transrectal Hybrid Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) Nephrectomy in the Cadaveric Model

Objective To examine feasibility of transrectal hybrid natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) nephrectomy in human cadavers in the evolution of this technique, as transrectal hybrid NOTES nephrectomy has been demonstrated in the porcine model. Methods Four hybrid transrectal NOTES nephrectomies were performed on 4 cadavers (3 female/1 male, 2 right/2 left). Pneumoperitoneum was created by periumbilical 12-mm trocar, through which a laparoscope was advanced to obtain intra-abdominal visualization. A 4-cm horizontal incision was made 2-cm above the dentate line and a submucosal tunnel was created in the posterior rectal wall/presacral space. A dual-channel gastroscope was advanced through the submucosal tunnel and retroperitoneum to the level of the kidney using air insufflation. A peritoneal window was created and renal mobilization was completed. A transumbilically applied laparoscopic 45-mm stapler was used to transect the ureter and renal hilum. A specimen entrapment bag was deployed transrectally for specimen extraction, followed by transrectal incision closure. Results Transrectal NOTES nephrectomy was successfully performed in all cases, with intact specimen extraction. Median weight was 77 kg (range 74-85 kg); median body mass index (BMI) was 30.1 kg/m 2 (range 25.6-31.2 kg/m 2 ). Mean operative time was 175 minutes (range 150-210 minutes). Median transrectal access time was 36 minutes (range 24-47 minutes). Median dimensions of removed kidneys were length 11.2 cm (range 10-12 cm), width 5 cm (range 4.5-6 cm), and thickness 3.8 cm (range 3-4.5 cm). Conclusion Transrectal hybrid NOTES nephrectomy in the cadaver model is feasible with intact specimen extraction and acceptable operative times. Preclinical survival studies are requisite to assess sterility and complications. This approach may be an alternative to transvaginal access.
Behavioral asymmetries in a moving hybrid zone

Three narrow hybrid zones exist between hermit and Townsend’s warblers in the Pacific Northwest. Character transition curves suggest that these zones are moving and that Townsend’s warblers have a selective advantage over hermit warblers. This study compares year-to-year return rates, male persistence on territories, pairing success, pairing patterns, and territory quality of hermit and Townsend’s warblers and their hybrids in the Washington Cascades hybrid zone. There was no difference in the year-to-year return rate between the parental species. Townsend’s males were more successful in maintaining territories and attracting mates than hermit males. Among mated pairs there were few hermit males compared to females, independently supporting the inferiority of hermit males in competition for territories or female mate choice for Townsend’s-like males. I found no difference in the quality of hermit and Townsend’s territories; however, in poor habitats Townsend’s males were more successful at attracting mates, suggesting female preference for Townsend’s-like males. In high-quality habitats, there was no difference in pairing success between the parental species. The fitness of hybrids relative to parentals affects the width and movement of the zone. Hybrids were intermediate in their ability to maintain territories and to attract mates, which should increase the width of the zone and accelerate its movement. Fewer hybrid males returned to from one year to the next, and among mated pairs there were few hybrid females relative to males, suggesting hybrid inferiority, which should narrow the hybrid zone and slow its movement.
Surgery for lens instability.

Lens luxation is a common hereditary ocular disease in terrier breeds. If not detected early, lens luxation invariably leads to vision threatening ocular diseases such as retinal detachment and glaucoma. Successful management of lens instability requires that the lens be removed as early as possible, and preferably before luxation has occurred. With attention to exacting detail, the displaced lens cannot only be removed, but it can be replaced with a prosthetic intraocular lens that is stabilized within the eye with sutures of 10-0 prolene. With early detection and aggressive surgical intervention, the prognosis for vision in dogs with lens instability should be good.
Drought, Tree Rings, and Reservoir Design

: Droughts constitute one of the most important factors affecting the design and operation of water resources infrastructure. Hydrologists ascertain their duration, severity, and pattern of recurrence from instrumental records of precipitation or stream-flow. Under suitable conditions, and with proper analysis, tree rings obtained from long living, climate sensitive species of trees can extend instrumental records of streamflow and precipitation over periods spanning several centuries. Those tree-ring “reconstructions” provide a valuable insight about climate variability and drought occurrence in the Holocene, and yield long term hydrological data useful in the design of water infrastructure. This work presents a derivation of drought risk based on a renewal model of drought recurrence, a brief review of the basic theory of tree-ring reconstructions, and a stochastic model for optimizing the design of water supply reservoirs. Examples illustrate the methodology developed in this work and the supporting role that tree-ring reconstructed streamflow can play in characterizing hydrologic variability.
Global trees: a framework for linked data structures on distributed memory parallel systems

This paper describes the Global Trees (GT) system that provides a multi-layered interface to a global address space view of distributed tree data structures, while providing scalable performance on distributed memory systems. The Global Trees system utilizes coarse-grained data movement to enhance locality and communication efficiency. We describe the design and implementation of GT, illustrate its use in the context of a gravitational simulation application, and provide experimental results that demonstrate the effectiveness of the approach. The key benefits of using this system include efficient shared-memory style programming of distributed trees, tree-specific optimizations for data access and computation, and the ability to customize many aspects of GT to optimize application performance.
Evidence for antidiuretic control of rectal water absorption in the cockroach Periplaneta americana L.

Abstract An in vitro method has been devised for the study of water absorption by the cockroach rectum. The method permits measurement of the amount of water absorbed over a period of time. Passive water movement occurs across the rectal wall. Water absorption appears to occur from isosmotic and hyperosmotic trehalose solutions, and is DNP sensitive. Water absorption by recta from dehydrated animals was compared with that of recta from hydrated animals. Recta from dehydrated animals absorbed water at a higher rate than recta from hydrated animals. This is interpreted as an antidiuretic response, and indicates that the cockroach possesses a regulatory system to control rate of rectal water absorption. Dehydration of cockroaches produced by lowering the r.h. of the atmosphere, by supplying with hyperosmotic saline, or by withholding water gave similar results. Extracts of various insect tissues were applied to in vitro recta to determine if factors were present which affect rate of water absorption. Extracts of corpora allata, metathoracic ganglia, and last abdominal ganglia from hydrated animals produced an increase in rate of water absorption. When the same tissues were taken from dehydrated animals, their extracts had less activity. However, brain extracts from dehydrated animals produced an increase in water absorption. These results indicate that rate of rectal water absorption may be regulated by a factor or factors of neuroendocrine origin.