cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Learning response-ability: What The Broken Earth can teach about crafting a Chthulucene

In this article, N.K. Jemisin’s multiple-Hugo-award-winning trilogy The Broken Earth (2015–2017) is read with Sylvia Wynter’s genealogy of who counts as human, and Donna Haraway’s conception of the...
Dynamic Catalysis Fundamentals: I. Fast calculation of limit cycles in dynamic catalysis

Dynamic catalysis—the forced oscillation of catalytic reaction coordinate potential energy surfaces (PES)—has recently emerged as a promising method for the acceleration of heterogeneously-catalyzed reactions. Theoretical study of enhancement of rates and supra-equilibrium product yield via dynamic catalysis has, to-date, been severely limited by onerous computational demands of forward integration of stiff, coupled ordinary differential equations (ODEs) that are necessary to quantitatively describe periodic cycling between PESs. We establish a new approach that reduces, by ≳108×, the computational cost of finding the time-averaged rate at dynamic steady state (i.e. the limit cycle for linear and nonlinear systems of kinetic equations). Our developments are motivated by and conceived from physical and mathematical insight drawn from examination of a simple, didactic case study for which closed-form solutions of rate enhancement are derived in explicit terms of periods of oscillation and elementary step rate constants. Generalization of such closed-form solutions to more complex catalytic systems is achieved by introducing a periodic boundary condition requiring the dynamic steady state solution to have the same periodicity as the kinetic oscillations and solving the corresponding differential equations by linear algebra or Newton-Raphson-based approaches. The methodology is well-suited to extension to non-linear systems for which we detail the potential for multiple solutions or solutions with different periodicities. For linear and non-linear systems alike, the acute decrement in computational expense enables rapid optimization of oscillation waveforms and, consequently, accelerates understanding of the key catalyst properties that enable maximization of reaction rates, conversions, and selectivities during dynamic catalysis.
The Interdependence of School Outcomes and School and Neighborhood Crime

In this paper, we estimate the effects of neighborhood crime and in-school crime on educational outcomes for elementary and secondary schools in the city of Atlanta over the period 1999 to 2002. We specify a model that accounts for the joint determination of both types of crime along with school outcomes. Despite the large empirical literature on both education production functions and crime incidence, there has been little empirical work on crime's effect on school outcomes. One exception is Grogger (1997) who used individual data from the High School and Beyond study to estimate the effect of school violence on measures of individual student performance. After controlling for individual and school characteristics, he found that moderate and severe levels of school violence had substantial negative consequences for school outcomes. Our study both updates and expands on his work, using current data and better measures of neighborhood violence.
Polymerase chain reaction for detection of measles virus in clinical samples.

A rapid and sensitive one-step reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction assay was developed to detect measles virus (MV) in nasal aspirates from patients with suspected MV infection. Oligonucleotide primers and probe were targeted to highly conserved regions of the matrix gene. Assay conditions were optimized to allow detection of as little as 1 PFU of an MV stock whose titer was known. Extraction of RNA from 38 nasal aspirates and then reverse transcription and MV matrix gene amplification yielded a polymerase chain reaction product of the predicted size in 14 of 14 MV culture-positive patients. Matrix gene amplification provides a rapid, sensitive, and specific supplementary assay to the currently available modalities for MV detection. Images
Cartoon embellishments in informative presentations

What effect does the inclusion of cartoon embellishments have on printed and audiovisual presentations? College students read, listened to, or viewed a presentation about the library. Some presentations included cartoons. The results suggest that if comprehension is the only goal, the printed text without cartoons is just as effective as cartoons or audiovisual presentations. If enjoyment is a factor, cartoons or audiovisual presentations should be considered.
A Two-Phase Exact Algorithm for MAX-SAT and Weighted MAX-SAT Problems

We describe a two-phase algorithm for MAX-SAT and weighted MAX-SAT problems. In the first phase, we use the GSAT heuristic to find a good solution to the problem. In the second phase, we use an enumeration procedure based on the Davis-Putnam-Loveland algorithm, to find a provably optimal solution. The first heuristic stage improves the performance of the algorithm by obtaining an upper bound on the minimum number of unsatisfied clauses that can be used in pruning branches of the search tree. We compare our algorithm with an integer programming branch-and-cut algorithm. Our implementation of the two-phase algorithm is faster than the integer programming approach on many problems. However, the integer programming approach is more effective than the two-phase algorithm on some classes of problems, including MAX-2-SAT problems.
Repurchase Announcements, Lies and False Signals

Prior stock repurchase studies have found evidence that the announcement of a repurchase program sends a positive signal to the market. Firms engaging in open-market repurchase programs do not have to report how, when, and if they actually repurchased any shares. Evidence following the stock market crash of 1987 indicates that many firms announcing repurchase plans did not actually repurchase any share and, by their own admission, had no intention of repurchasing shares. Companies announcing plans and not following through are apparently within the letter of the law. However, we argue that companies announcing plans with no intention of repurchasing shares are guilty of either lying or sending false signals. These companies create distrust in the investment community and intentionally mislead the public in violation of the SEC's antifraud provisions. Changes in the reporting procedures concerning repurchase plans are ethically and legally warranted.
Optimization and characterization of a sulfate based electrodeposition method for alpha-spectrometry of neptunium and curium

The parameters for a sulfate based electrodeposition method were optimized for the preparation of Cm and Np alpha-spectrometry sources. Alpha-spectrometry requires the preparation of essentially massless sources to eliminate self-absorption of alpha-particles, which can cause degraded alpha-spectra. A variety of methods for the electrodeposition of actinides have been reported in the literature, many of which require long deposition times and lack reproducibility. A previously reported sulfate based method has been evaluated for the preparation of Np and Cm sources. High yields were achieved and source preparation took 90 minutes or less. The effects of electrodeposition time and pH of the depositing solution were evaluated for each element. Typical resolution (FWHM) for sources prepared by this method is 50 keV or less with recoveries approaching 100%.
P13suc1 associates with a cdc2-like kinase in a multimeric cytoskeletal complex in squid axoplasm

P13suc1 sepharose-conjugated beads were used to extract the kinases that phosphorylate neurofilaments in the squid giant axon. Using Western blots and in vitro kinase assays, we demonstrated the presence of an active cdc2-like kinase and its putative regulators such as cyclin E, p13, and p67 in axoplasm and a P13-axoplasm complex (P13-Ax). Protein kinase A (PKA) and casein kinase (CK) I and II were also found in the P13-Ax. Western blot analysis of the P13-Ax also demonstrated several axonal cytoskeletal components; e.g., neurofilaments (NFs; NF 60, 70, and 220), tubulin, actin, and microtubule-associated proteins. NF 220 and tubulin were phosphorylated by the kinases in the P13-Ax. To determine whether NFs bound directly to the P13 beads, or bound indirectly by association with cdc2 kinase, a washed, axon-derived neurofilament preparation that contained NFs, PKA, CKl, and tubulin, but no cdc2-like kinase, yielded no bound proteins after incubation with P13suc1. The wash supernatant from the neurofilament preparation, however, containing the cdc2-like kinase, did yield cytoskeletal components that bound to P13suc1. Moreover, a bacterial-expressed cdk5 associated with P13 beads was able to complex with selected cytoskeletal components in the washed neurofilament preparation. These data indicate that direct binding of P13 beads with a cdc2-like kinase could extract active multimeric complexes composed of axonal cytoskeletal proteins and kinases. Application of P13 chromatography may be useful in characterizing the network of functional interactions among cytoskeletal elements and protein kinases in neurons.
A Noisy Monte Carlo Algorithm with Fermion Determinant

We propose a Monte Carlo algorithm which accommodates an unbiased stochastic estimates of the fermion determinant and is exact. This is achieved by adopting the Metropolis accept/reject steps for the update of both the dynamical and noise configurations. We demonstrate how this algorithm works even for large noises. We also discuss the Pade - Z2estimates of the fermion determinant as a practical way of estimating the Trln of the fermion matrix.
Argon glow discharge and vapor‐phase grafting of vinyl monomers on wettability of polyethylene

Argon glow discharge-induced vapor-phase grafting of vinyl monomers containing various polar pendant groups onto PE films was investigated. Relationships between the enhanced wetting properties and the level of grafting, the types of pendant groups, and the surface topographical features were established. Improved wettability of the grafted PE surfaces is attributed to both the increased surface polarity and topographical features. On AA-grafted PE surfaces with optimal wettability, microcracks, with depths of 130 ∼ 250 nm, lengths over 10 μm, and widths between 1.5 and 6.0 μm, are proved to be a topographical feature necessary for improved wettability. With sufficient microcracks, grafting with vinyl monomers containing carbonyl groups, i.e., carboxyl, aldehyde, and ketone groups, improved surface wetting more than grafting with those containing either hydroxyl and epoxy groups. The acquired wettability of vinyl monomer-grafted PE surface is attributed to the physicochemical synergism between the microcracks and the polar groups.
TEM study of nanofinger structures for surface enhanced Raman scattering

Chemical sensing applications utilizing surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) have drawn significant attention recently. However, developing a reliable, high performance SERS platform remains a challenge. A novel SERS substrate based on nanofingers was successfully demonstrated to provide large enhancement reliably and showed great promise for practical applications. Capillary forces bring the gold caps on the nanofingers into close proximity upon exposure to a solution containing molecules of interest, trapping molecules within the gaps and producing greatly enhanced Raman signals. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to characterize the structure of the nanofingers, in particular the gaps between finger tips to improve the fundamental understanding of the structural-performance relationship.
Culturally Competent Social Work Practice with Veterans: An Overview of the U.S. Military

Despite social work's longstanding history of serving veterans, few resources support culturally competent practice with this population. If social workers are to serve veterans effectively and efficiently, a basic understanding of the U.S. military is essential. This article presents a basic overview of U.S. military including its structure and history, the propensity to enlist in the armed forces, culture, and training methods and objectives. With an understanding of these aspects of military service and continued effort to learn about their client's military experience, social workers will be prepared to provide culturally competent services consistent with the profession's values and ethics.
Comparing outcome criteria performance in adult strabismus surgery.

Purpose To evaluate the performance of motor, diplopia, and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) criteria when analyzing outcomes of adult strabismus surgery. Design Cohort study. Participants We studied 159 adults undergoing 171 strabismus surgeries. Methods All patients underwent clinical assessment preoperatively and 6 weeks postoperatively, including completion of Adult Strabismus-20 HRQOL questionnaires. Preoperatively, strabismus was classified as either diplopic (n = 117), nondiplopic (n = 38), or atypical diplopic (n = 16). To assess performance of motor, diplopia, and HRQOL criteria, success was defined a priori and applied separately and in combinations. For success: (1) motor criteria, Main Outcome Measures Surgical success rate when applying motor, diplopia, and HRQOL criteria alone and in combinations. Results Overall, success rates were 90% for motor criteria, 74% for diplopia criteria, and 60% for HRQOL criteria. Combining criteria, the highest success rate was for motor plus diplopia criteria (67%) and the lowest success rate was when combining motor, diplopia, and HRQOL criteria (50%). Conclusions Applying motor criteria alone yields the highest success rates when evaluating outcomes in adult strabismus surgery, but motor criteria do not fully represent the patient's postoperative status. Combining diplopia criteria with motor criteria provides a more clinically relevant standard for judging the success of adult strabismus surgery. For HRQOL criteria, exceeding 95% LOA at 6 weeks postoperatively seems to be a difficult hurdle to clear for some individual patients, and evaluating change in HRQOL score may be more useful in cohort studies. Financial Disclosure(s) The authors have no proprietary or commercial interest in any of the materials discussed in this article.
Fully omnidirectional compliance in mobile robots via drive-torque sensor feedback

In order to make unintentional physical interaction with robots safer for humans, we consider compliant control of an omnidirectional wheeled base. In this paper we present a fully holonomic mobile robot system which achieves compliant motion via force control, improving over previous pseudo-omnidirectional mobile systems by being fully omnidirectional.We explain our robot's drive train, and present an experimental validation of our actuator control strategy. Using a smith predictor and a simple delay-based plant model, we demonstrate compliance and safe interaction in both the mobile system alone and as the base of a wheeled mobile manipulator style system.
Looking backward—Looking forward

Abstract THOSE WHO READ THE Doctor Doolittle books as children or who saw the movie will remember that strange animal, the Push-me-Pull-you which had the ability to look backwards and forwards simultaneously. When we work in an area as large and complex as child abuse, it is sometimes helpful to look back at things this way. Sometimes work in this area can be discouraging, and we may wonder if we have made any progress. This is when looking backwards helps. When we review past activities, it can often be quite reassuring as we may realize that quite a lot has been achieved. However it is important not to look back for too long. We must also look forward to the future and to plan.
Study of the light scattered by gel-forming systems of sodium oleate and sodium erucate in a fraction of turpentine during and after setting

Values of turbidity F (G/G'), dissymmetry and depolarisation factors of solutions, giving rise to gels of sodium oleate and sodium erucate, prepared at 140 C0, during their cooling to 20 °C, have revealed that the particles in these systems are comparatively large and only slightly anisotropic prior to formation of gels; these characteristics remain more or less constant during gel-formation, but soon after the setting of gels the size of the particles decreases and their anisotropy increases markedly and rapidly on account of their under-going characteristic syneresis. Particles in these systems containing larger amount of the soaps are bigger and remain bigger throughout the period of study, but show no regular behaviour in respect of anisotropy.
The RB and p53 pathways in cancer

The life history of cancer cells encompasses a series of genetic missteps in which normal cells are progressively transformed into tumor cells that invade surrounding tissues and become malignant. Most prominent among the regulators disrupted in cancer cells are two tumor suppressors, the retinoblastoma protein (RB) and the p53 transcription factor. Here, we discuss interconnecting signaling pathways controlled by RB and p53, attempting to explain their potentially universal involvement in the etiology of cancer. Pinpointing the various ways by which the functions of RB and p53 are subverted in individual tumors should provide a rational basis for developing more refined tumor-specific therapies.
Mechanisms of continuous recrystallization in an AlZrSi alloy

Abstract Microstructural evolution in an AlZrSi alloy has been investigated with the goal of elucidating the mechanisms responsible for formation of high-angle grain boundaries by continuous, recovery-type processes during concurrent straining and annealing. The primary method of investigation was TEM characterization of the microstructure and microtexture after cold rolling, after annealing, and after concurrent straining and annealing. The cold-rolled microstructure consists of layers parallel to the rolling plane; only low-angle boundaries are present within each layer withadjacent layers are separated by high-angle boundaries. During annealing, the subgrain size increases but the subgrain boundary misorientations are not significantly changed and the high-angle boundaries are relatively immobile. In contrast, concurrent straining and annealing of the cold-rolled material causes a gradual increase in the misorientation of some of the original low-angle boundaries, implying subgrain rotation. Ultimately, high-angle boundaries evolve by subgrain rotation from the subgrain boundaries originally present within each layer. The observations are interpreted in terms of several mechanisms previously proposed for microstructural evolution during concurrent straining and annealing.
Equilibrium Properties of a Partially Ionized Plasma

A model for a partially ionized, partially dissociated plasma has been formulated using known theoretical concepts to describe both bound and free electron states, internal molecular degrees of freedom and Coulomb interactions. It has been applied to a system of particles arising from the hydrogen molecule. The Coulomb interaction is treated in the classical Debye approximation. However, a distance of closest approach between ions and electrons depending on the kinetic energy of the electrons is included to avoid the short-range divergence of the Coulomb potential. The kinetic energy of the free electrons is calculated from the partition function for a perfect Fermi gas. The vibrational and rotational motion are treated in the harmonic oscillator and rigid rotor approximation with the number of energy levels counted for a given electronic state depending on the dissociation energy of the state. A volume dependence of the bound electronic energy eigenvalues is included by considering the effect of surrounding particles as a confinement of a given particle to a spherical box of variable size. For the counting of the bound electronic states, a given state is bound until its energy increases to zero due to confinement. From the partition function for the entire system, the free energy is calculated. By a minimization of the free energy of the system, the equilibrium composition as a function of temperature and volume is obtained. Then not only can thermodynamic quantities be calculated, but it is believed that a reasonable approximation to the correct balance of molecular, ionic and free electronic states is achieved over a wide range of $v\ensuremath{-}T$ space. Consequently, regions where incomplete ionization and dissociation are important are delineated. In addition, for different regions of $v\ensuremath{-}T$ space, the relative contributions of charged particle interaction of the nonclassical behavior of electrons, of internal degrees of freedom and of translation to the total energy of the system can be determined.
Candida albicans Infection of Caenorhabditis elegans Induces Antifungal Immune Defenses

Candida albicans yeast cells are found in the intestine of most humans, yet this opportunist can invade host tissues and cause life-threatening infections in susceptible individuals. To better understand the host factors that underlie susceptibility to candidiasis, we developed a new model to study antifungal innate immunity. We demonstrate that the yeast form of C. albicans establishes an intestinal infection in Caenorhabditis elegans, whereas heat-killed yeast are avirulent. Genome-wide, transcription-profiling analysis of C. elegans infected with C. albicans yeast showed that exposure to C. albicans stimulated a rapid host response involving 313 genes (124 upregulated and 189 downregulated, ∼1.6% of the genome) many of which encode antimicrobial, secreted or detoxification proteins. Interestingly, the host genes affected by C. albicans exposure overlapped only to a small extent with the distinct transcriptional responses to the pathogenic bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Staphylococcus aureus, indicating that there is a high degree of immune specificity toward different bacterial species and C. albicans. Furthermore, genes induced by P. aeruginosa and S. aureus were strongly over-represented among the genes downregulated during C. albicans infection, suggesting that in response to fungal pathogens, nematodes selectively repress the transcription of antibacterial immune effectors. A similar phenomenon is well known in the plant immune response, but has not been described previously in metazoans. Finally, 56% of the genes induced by live C. albicans were also upregulated by heat-killed yeast. These data suggest that a large part of the transcriptional response to C. albicans is mediated through “pattern recognition,” an ancient immune surveillance mechanism able to detect conserved microbial molecules (so-called pathogen-associated molecular patterns or PAMPs). This study provides new information on the evolution and regulation of the innate immune response to divergent pathogens and demonstrates that nematodes selectively mount specific antifungal defenses at the expense of antibacterial responses.
State-of-the-art neoclassical tearing mode control in DIII-D using real-time steerable electron cyclotron current drive launchers

Real-time steerable electron cyclotron current drive (ECCD) has been demonstrated to reduce the power requirements and time needed to remove 3/2 and 2/1 neoclassical tearing modes (NTMs) in the DIII-D tokamak. In a world first demonstration of the techniques required in ITER, the island formation onset is detected automatically, gyrotrons are turned on and the real-time steerable ECCD launcher mirrors are moved promptly to drive current at the location of the islands. This shrinks and suppresses the modes well before saturation using real-time motional Stark effect constrained equilibria reconstruction with advanced feedback and search algorithms to target the deposition. In ITER, this method will reduce the ECCD energy requirement and so raise Q by keeping the EC system off when the NTM is not present. Further, in the experiments with accurate tracking of pre-emptive ECCD to resonant surfaces, both 3/2 and 2/1 modes are prevented from appearing with much lower ECCD peak power than required for removal of a saturated mode.
Water Sorption by Dry Milk Solids. I. The Effect of Processing Treatments on Volume Contraction

Summary and Conclusions 1. The volume contraction of dry milk solids prepared by different processing treatments immersed in an unlimited amount of water has been measured at 20 degrees C. in a dilatometer. 2. Dry milk solids preheated at 76.7 degrees C. (170 deg. F.) for 30 minutes before drying showed greater volume contraction in water than solids preheated at other temperatures studied, namely 60 degrees C. (140 deg. F.) (roller only), 71.1 degrees C. (160 deg. F.), 82.2 degrees C. (180 deg. F.), and 93.3 degrees C. (200 deg. F.). 3. Dry milk solids manufactured by the spray process showed greater volume contraction than when manufactured by the atmospheric roller process. 4. The time required for volume contraction to be complete ranged from 20–22 hours for all spray samples except the one processed at 82.2 degrees C. (180 deg. F.) and 24–28 hours for all roller samples except 82.2 degrees C. (180 deg. F.) and 93.3 degrees C. (200 deg. F.) to 48 hours for the samples processed by the higher heat treatments mentioned. 5. The significance of the data is discussed in the light of known facts concerning volume changes accompanying various phenomena and the conclusion is drawn that the volume contraction probably results mainly from the sorption of water by the milk proteins.
The autecology and production dynamics of eelgrass (Zostera marina L.) in Netarts Bay, Oregon

Changes in biomass, growth form and shoot net primary production in an eelgrass, Zostera marina L., bed were monitored along transects at three tidal heights in Netarts Bay, Oregon, from May 1979 through June 1981. During the growing season, April through October, the mean plastochrone interval was 16.5 d along the low intertidal transect and 11.6 d along the high intertidal transect. The mean export interval was 13.3 d along the low intertidal transect and 11.6 d along the high intertidal transect. The life span of a leaf averaged 48 d along the low intertidal transect and 36 d along the high intertidal transect. Shoot density was positively correlated with mean leaf area index (LAI) until the LAI reached 3.8 to 5.5, above which LAI was negatively correlated with density. The maximum Zostera biomass ranged from 143 (high intertidal transect) to 463 (low intertidal transect) g dry wt m−2. Maximum values of shoot net production ranged from 4.7 (high intertidal transect) to 13.6 (low intertidal transect) g dry wt m−2d−1. Zostera shoot net production was related to light and to the physical damage to the shoots associated with a rapid accumulation of Enteromorpha biomass in the bay. In addition, patterns of biomass accumulation were related to the duration of water coverage, as determined by both tidal height and local impoundments of water. At all transects, biomass sloughed was equal to at least 50% of the shoot net primary production in that area during that time period; sloughed leaves accounted for 25 to 97% of these losses. An estimate of the total annual net primary production of aboveground Zostera in the bed was 17,500 kg, dry wt (SE=3,080 kg dry wt), which was equivalent to a mean annual rate of 383 g C m−2 (SE=67 g C m−2)
Proliferative Glomerulonephritis Due to Monoclonal Deposition With Organized Substructures

A growing number of monoclonal gammopathy–associated kidney diseases recently have been recognized. We present the case of a 54-year-old man who presented with acute kidney injury and hypocomplementemia. Kidney biopsy confirmed the presence of immunoglobulin G κ pseudothrombi with intracytoplasmic crystals in glomeruli and tubules. Levels of κ free light chains were elevated without a detectable monoclonal gammopathy, and bone marrow biopsy results were normal. After the first course of rituximab, cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone in addition to daily plasmapheresis, kidney function recovered within 2 weeks and dialysis therapy was discontinued. Treatment for monoclonal protein–induced kidney disease should be considered in the setting of progressive decreased kidney function, even in the absence of a circulating monoclonal protein or cellular clone of origin.
Pacific Subtropical Cell Response to Reduced Equatorial Dissipation

Abstract Equatorial turbulent diffusivities resulting from breaking gravity waves may be more than a factor of 10 less than those in the midlatitudes. A coupled general circulation model with a layered isopycnal coordinate ocean is used to assess Pacific climate sensitivity to a latitudinally varying background diapycnal diffusivity with extremely low values near the equator. The control experiments have a minimum upper-ocean diffusivity of 10−5 m2 s−1 and are initialized from present-day conditions. The average depth of the σθ = 26.4 interface (z26.4) in the Pacific increases by ∼140 m after 500 yr of coupled model integration. This corresponds to a warming trend in the upper ocean. Low equatorial diffusivities reduce the z26.4 bias by ∼30%. Isopycnal surfaces are elevated from the eastern boundary up to midlatitudes by cooling in the upper several hundred meters, partially compensated by freshening. Entrainment of intermediate water masses from below σθ = 26.4 decreases by ∼1.5 Sv (1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1), m...
Connoisseur's Choice: Crocoite, Adelaide Mine, Tasmania, Australia

The mineral featured in this installment of Connoisseur's Choice is crocoite, one of the most popular species of collectors at any level. Although this mineral has already been covered by Cook (200...
The dilemma of security patches

Abstract Security patches to operating systems present a dilemma. Fixing the systems requires notifying systems administrators and distributing patches. However, this same information makes it possible for attackers to create automated scripts to search for machines that have had the operating system updated. By surveying security experts, this study shows that many systems administrators feel they are unable to stay current with the releases of security patches. The issue of currency leaves a door open for automated scripts to find and infiltrate computer and information systems. The situation means that vendors must develop even better methods to distribute and install patches. Consequently, the user/vendor community should consider more formal schedules for patch releases.
A Glass‐Ceramic Plate for Mammography

We developed translucent glass-ceramic image plates for digital mammography. The glass ceramics are based on europium-doped fluorozirconate glasses, which were additionally doped with chlorine to initiate the nucleation of barium chloride nano-particles therein. The X-ray image is stored in the form of stable electron-hole pairs, which can be read out afterwards with a scanning laser beam in a "photostimulated luminescence" (PSL) process. Measurements of the required stimulating exposure, integrated PSL signal, and optical light spreading of the stimulating laser light were performed to allow projection of the detective quantum efficiency (DQE) for the proposed X-ray storage phosphor system. The projected DQE is compared with commercially available electronic mammography systems.
Reverse remodeling is associated with changes in extracellular matrix proteases and tissue inhibitors after mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) treatment of pressure overload hypertrophy.

Changes in ventricular extracellular matrix (ECM) composition of pressure overload hypertrophy determine clinical outcomes. The effects of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation upon determinants of ECM composition in pressure overload hypertrophy have not been studied. Sprague–Dawley rats underwent aortic banding and were followed by echocardiography. After an absolute decrease in fractional shortening of 25% from baseline, 1 × 106 MSC (n = 28) or PBS (n = 20) was randomly injected intracoronarily. LV protein analysis, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-3, MMP-6, MMP-9) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP-1, TIMP-2, TIMP-3), was performed after sacrifice on postoperative day 7, 14, 21 or 28. Left ventricular levels of MMP-3, MMP-6, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-3 were demonstrated to be decreased in the MSC group compared with controls after 28 days. Expression of MMP-2 and TIMP-2 remained relatively stable in both groups. Successful MSCs delivery was confirmed by histological analysis and visualization of labelled MSCs. In this model of pressure overload hypertrophy, intracoronary delivery of MSCs during heart failure was associated with specific changes in determinants of ECM composition. LV reverse remodeling was associated with decreased ventricular levels of MMP-3, MMP-6, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-3, which were upregulated in the control group as heart failure progressed. These effects were most significant at 28 days following injection. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Infrared studies of chain folding in polymers. v. polyhexamethylene adipamide

Abstract Systematic infrared studies of a series of polyhexamethylene adipamides (nylon 66) have resulted in the assignment of two bands to the regularly folded polymer chain. Utilizing this assignment and long-period measurements by small-angle X-ray diffraction, a method has been developed to compare the amount of regular chain folding in solution-crystallized samples precipitated at different temperatures. At high supercoolings in solution, only 60% of the chain folding which occurs has a regular structure. Annealing of the solution-crystallized samples not only produced a longer fold period but also regularized the folds. Melt-crystallized samples when annealed do not show much increase in fold period or regularization of the folds. Glass-crystallized samples show a rapid initial increase with time at a particular temperature in long period and regular folding. For the glass-crystallized samples crystallized at different temperatures for the same period of time, higher temperatures of crystallization ...
Convergent and Discriminant Validity of Selected Need Scales from the Adjective Check List and Personality Research Form

Mental Measarements Yearbook (Buros, 1972), Wiggins deplored the fact that the test manual did not provide any information on the comparability of the need scales from the Personality Research Form with those of its close competitors, the Adjective Check List (Gough & Heilbmn, 1965) and Edwards Personal Preference Schedule (Edwards, 1954). However, such comparative data were not provided in the 1974 edition of the Personality Research Form manual, and lack of such information makes it difficult to integrate various research findings based on different inventories. Although the three inventories were developed using the same theoretical framework provided by Murray's ( 1938) theory of personality needs, they are substantially different methodologically. The Personality Research Form has true-false statements, and its scales are relatively independent, internally consistent, and free from response biases due to acquiescence and social desirability. The Adjective Check List, on the other hand, contains trait-descriptive adjectives in a checklist format, and its need scales show considerable item overlap which inflates the scale intercorrelations, while the Edwards Personal Preference Schedule's statements are presented in forced-choice format in an attempt to control social desirability response bias.
Behavioral studies of the sensitive periods of development of visual functions in monkeys.

The age-dependent effects of monocular form deprivation on psychophysically determined visual functions were investigated in rhesus monkeys. Monocular form deprivation was initiated at various ages from 1 to 25 months and maintained for 18 months. The effects of form deprivation varied across the visual functions evaluated. Absolute scotopic sensitivity was depressed by form deprivation initiated only at 1 or 2 months of age. Photopic, increment-threshold spectral sensitivity functions showed alterations in sensitivity levels for monkeys treated at 5 months of age or earlier, with no effect thereafter. Monocular form deprivation at 1 to 5 months of age resulted in profound deficits in spatial modulation sensitivity. The effects on spatial vision decreased systematically as the age of onset was delayed from age 6 to 18 months. Finally, binocular summation measures revealed an absence of binocular vision even for the monkey form-deprived at 25 months of age, i.e. the experimental treatment series failed to define the upper limit of the age-range for the effects of monocular form deprivation on binocular summation mechanisms. Comparisons of the age-dependent effects of monocular form deprivation across the various functions demonstrated that the sensitive period, i.e. the period of life during which a visual function may be altered by monocular form deprivation, was different for each of the psychophysical measures of visual function.
In the Name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit: A Critical Reflection on the Trinitarian Theologies of Religion of S. Mark Heim and Gavin D'Costa

: S. Mark Heim and Gavin D'Costa are two significant contemporary authors grounding a theology of religions in the doctrine of the Trinity. This article critically examines their respective interpretations of the doctrine of the Trinity, and their deployment of this doctrine in appreciation of religious difference. Heim, in his attempt to provide a theological validation for the world religions, departs from more traditional formulations of the Trinity. Ironically, this departure means that he fails to describe the world religions in their own particularity, that is, as they would describe themselves. D'Costa, by contrast, maintains a sound trinitarian position, and raises the question of Christian responsibility toward the world religions from precisely this theological grounding. He does not conceptualize the religions within a theological framework, but does demonstrate that engagement with the religions constitutes an obedient ecclesial response to the Trinity.
Forty-one variables following thoracotomy in calves.

Seven calves underwent thoracotomy to study the response of 41 physiologic variables over a 14 day post-operative period for comparison to a recent series of left ventricular bypass pump implants. The experimental protocols were identical to the pump implant protocols except that the sham operated animals did not receive antiplatelet or anticoagulant drugs and the pumps were not implanted. Of the 41 variables studied, 13 changed significantly during the post-operative period. Heart rate, hematocrit, whole blood hemoglobin, and fibrinogen concentration decreased, while fibrinogen survival, stroke volume, cardiac output, arterial blood pH, pCO2 and pO2, plasma sodium concentration, and urinary excretion rates of sodium and potassium increased from the first or second to the fourteenth post-operative day. Heart rate and hematocrit also decreased in the recent series of 18 animals in which left ventricular bypass pumps were implanted. The decrease in heart rate is toward the unoperated control value as the ca...
Dosage compensation and demasculinization of X chromosomes in Drosophila.

Summary The X chromosome of Drosophila shows a deficiency of genes with male-biased expression [1–4], whereas mammalian X chromosomes are enriched for spermatogenesis genes expressed premeiosis and multicopy testis genes [5, 6]. Meiotic X-inactivation and sexual antagonism can only partly account for these patterns. Here, we show that dosage compensation (DC) in Drosophila may contribute substantially to the depletion of male genes on the X. To equalize expression between X-linked and autosomal genes in the two sexes, male Drosophila hypertranscribe their single X, whereas female mammals silence one of their two X chromosomes. We combine fine-scale mapping data of dosage compensated regions with genome-wide expression profiles and show that most male-biased genes on the D. melanogaster X are located outside dosage compensated regions. Additionally, X-linked genes that have newly acquired male-biased expression in D. melanogaster are less likely to be dosage compensated, and parental X-linked genes that gave rise to an autosomal male-biased retrocopy are more likely located within compensated regions. This suggests that DC contributes to the observed demasculinization of X chromosomes in Drosophila , both by limiting the emergence of male-biased expression patterns of existing X genes, and by contributing to gene trafficking of male genes off the X.
A Synthesis Procedure for Design of 3-R Planar Robotic Workcells in Which Large Rotations Are Required at the Workpiece

A new method is developed for determining both a satisfactory location of a workpiece and a suitable mounting-angle of the tool for planar 3-R robots that can provide dexterous workspace. The method is an adaptation of traditional techniques of linkage synthesis, and it is particularly well-suited to applications in which the motion-trajectory requires large rotations of the end-effector. It is determined that, when the trajectory requires that the end-effector rotate a full turn at just two locations and when the critical joint in the robot is rotatable by one turn, then the radial location of the workpiece is fixed in the workcell but its angular location is not fixed. When the mounting-angle of the tool is also a variable, the method accommodates trajectories in which the tool must rotate a full turn at three locations on the workpiece. The method can be applied not only to planar robots with three hinge-joints, but also to spatial robots, each with a planar 3-R module, when the principal attitudinal excursions of the trajectory are all about a set of parallel axes. Variables are identified, for both the motion-trajectory and the workpiece itself, which strongly affect the design of the workcell and the time for it to complete a motion-trajectory. Example problems illustrate the method. The new method is suggested as an alternative to the existing methods of computer science for motion-planning.
A new PET tracer specific for vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2.

Noninvasive positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) expression could be a valuable tool for evaluation of patients with a variety of malignancies, and particularly for monitoring those undergoing antiangiogenic therapies that block VEGF/VEGFR-2 function. The aim of this study was to develop a VEGFR-2-specific PET tracer. The D63AE64AE67A mutant of VEGF121 (VEGFDEE) was generated by recombinant DNA technology. VEGF121 and VEGFDEE were purified and conjugated with DOTA for 64Cu labeling. The DOTA conjugates were tested in vitro for VEGFR-2 specificity and functional activity. In vivo tumor targeting efficacy and pharmacokinetics of 64Cu-labeled VEGF121 and VEGFDEE were compared using an orthotopic 4T1 murine breast tumor model. Blocking experiments, biodistribution studies, and immunofluorescence staining were carried out to confirm the noninvasive imaging results. Cell binding assay demonstrated that VEGFDEE had about 20-fold lower VEGFR-1 binding affinity and only slightly lower VEGFR-2 binding affinity as compared with VEGF121. MicroPET imaging studies revealed that both 64Cu-DOTA-VEGF121 and 64Cu-DOTA-VEGFDEE had rapid and prominent activity accumulation in VEGFR-2-expressing 4T1 tumors. The renal uptake of 64Cu-DOTA-VEGFDEE was significantly lower than that of 64Cu-DOTA-VEGF121 as rodent kidneys expressed high levels of VEGFR-1 based on immunofluorescence staining. Blocking experiments and biodistribution studies confirmed the VEGFR specificity of 64Cu-DOTA-VEGFDEE. We have developed a VEGFR-2-specific PET tracer, 64Cu-DOTA-VEGFDEE. It has comparable tumor targeting efficacy to 64Cu-DOTA-VEGF121 but much reduced renal toxicity. This tracer may be translated into the clinic for imaging tumor angiogenesis and monitoring antiangiogenic treatment efficacy.
Influences on organizational buying choice processes: future research directions

Identifies sources of influence in organizational buying choices from a review of the literature. Constructs a model of influence by extending the buying behavior model of Webster and Wind (1972). Uses the model to categorize and analyze representative research of influence on organizational buying choice processes over the period 1970‐1995. Indicates that new research directions and emphasis in a number of areas could improve the usefulness of research results to marketing management. Recommendations include: use of a higher unit of analysis, investigation of non‐deterministic choice behavior, greater use of integrating or broad‐based studies, reduction in use of self‐professed data, more research of relatively neglected areas of influence, and more empirical testing of conceptual models.
Tolerance optimization using the Lambert W function: An empirical approach

This paper explores the integration of the Lambert W function to a tolerance optimization problem with two unique features. First, the Taguchi loss function has been a popular tool for quantifying a quality loss incurred by the customer. This paper utilizes an empirical approach based on a well-established regression analysis, which may be more appealing to engineers and better capture the customer's perception of product performance. Second, by trading off manufacturing and rejection costs incurred by a manufacturer and quality loss incurred by the customer, this paper shows how the Lambert W function, widely used in physics, can be efficiently applied, which is perhaps the first attempt in the literature related to tolerance optimization and synthesis. Using the concept of the Lambert W function, this paper derives a closed-form solution, which may serve as a means for quality practitioners to make a quick decision on their optimal tolerances without resorting to rigorous optimization procedures using n...
Spectroscopy and Electrochemistry of Ruthenium-Modified Nucleic Acids: Design of a Novel Metal-Binding Nucleoside

Electron transfer (ET) reactions through DNA have been the subject of numerous investigations due to the implications for light-induced DNA damage and the quest for understanding long-range ET events in biological molecules. An important objective in this area continues to be the facile and site-specific incorporation of metal complexes into DNA. While recent work has focused on nucleobasic and nonnucleosidic sites for the attachment of high-potential complexes, our efforts have concentrated on the ribose ring (to minimize structural perturbations) as the incorporation site for both high- and low-potential metal complexes.
Pesticides in Domestic Wells.

CHITTARANJAN RAY. American Society of Agricultural Engineers, 2950 Niles Road, St. Joseph, MI 49085. 2003. Hardback, 191 pp. $68.00. ISBN 1-892769-29-8. In the United States, about 40% of drinking water is drawn from domestic wells. As more and more compounds are being detected in the wells, the