cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Reinforcement in nano-filled PAA hydrogels

Abstract Presented experimental results bring an insight into the long-standing problem of the primary reinforcing mechanism in rubbery polymers filled with fine fillers. In this project the effect of silica nanoparticles on the linear viscoelastic response of model polyacrylamide (PAA) hydrogel systems was examined. Using water as a dispersion medium allowed for separating the effect of filler–filler and the filler–polymer interaction. Rheological data suggest that the primary mechanism of the nano-reinforcement in filled PAA hydrogels comes primarily from confinement to the PAA chains and bias of their conformational states in respect to their reference states. In hydrogels with very low concentration of PAA, the transition between the filler–filler and filler-induced conformational restriction mechanism of reinforcement was captured.
The interplay of task allocation patterns and governance mechanisms in industrial distribution channels

Abstract Task allocation involves the placement and performance of distribution subtasks among participants on an on-going basis in the channel. The authors offer an extended conceptualization of task allocation and examine its interplay in varying environmental conditions with shared decision making, pseudo-vertical integration, and dependence. They test the hypothesized relationships with three-stage least squares regression on a sample of farm equipment dealers. Results show that contractually based pseudo-vertical integration facilitates task allocation and, in turn, enlarged dealer task allocation patterns result in pseudo-vertical integration. Firm size has a significant influence on pseudo-vertical integration. In turbulent environments, dealers rely more heavily on shared decision making to allocate tasks than they do in stable environments. Although dependence increases pseudo-vertical integration, its effects on other factors are minimal. The results suggest that task allocation is an important construct that relates to several commonly observed channel characteristics.
The Resuspension and Transport of Fine-Grained Sediments in Lake Erie

Abstract The resuspension and transport of fine-grained sediments in Lake Erie has been calculated for a variety of wind conditions. The emphasis was on the effects of major storms. Calculations were made for different constant wind speeds and wind directions and also for the November 1940 storm, one of the largest in the last century. The results indicate that major storms, despite their infrequent occurrence, are responsible for most of the resuspension and transport of fine-grained sediments in Lake Erie. The results of the calculations are also used to more quantitatively interpret geochronological data from Lake Erie.
Evaluation of the application of rare-earth elements to paleoceanography

Anomalous departures of rare-earth elements (REE) from similarity of chemical behaviour are most evident in a comparison of Ce with its neighbors. Under reducing conditions Ce3+ acts like other REE, but oxidized Ce4+ is adsorbed on Mn-, Fe-oxyhydroxides, or organic particulates, and consequently the remaining solution will tend to exhibit a negative Ce anomaly. In addition, more subtle fractionations may emphasize the light, or the heavy, or the middle REE. A pattern of REE may be recorded by immediate diagenesis on a suitable chemical substrate, such as apatite (fish debris, conodonts), carbonate or chert. This record was originally thought to reflect the paleoredox conditions of primary deposition. However, any such primary record may be overprinted by late diagenetic alteration. Early analyses of REE in conodonts from a wide range of sediments suggested a prevalence of reducing conditions (no Ce anomaly) in pre-Carboniferous oceans, and more common oxidation (negative Ce anomaly) in the late Paleozoic. However, recent research by other investigators indicates that variations in Cean are more diverse in origin, and in particular many are distorted to an unknown extent by late diagenesis. In any case it is now clear that geological age does not show a consistent relationship to the level of the Ce anomaly. The Ce anomaly apparently does not play any regular role in the isotopic events that accompany prominent mass extinctions. Further research is required to understand, and thus make useful, the controls on the Ce anomaly.
Ontology-guided Extraction of Complex Nested Relationships

Many applications call for methods to enable automatic extraction of structured information from unstructured natural language text. Due to inherent challenges of natural language processing, most of the existing methods for information extraction from text tend to be domain specific. We explore a modular ontology-based approach to information extraction that decouples domain-specific knowledge from the rules used for information extraction. We describe a framework for extraction of a subset of complex nested relationships (e.g., Joe reports that Jim is a reliable employee). The extracted relationships are output in the form of sets of RDF (resource description framework) triples, which can be queried using query languages for RDF and mined for knowledge acquisition.
ANTIBODY COATED BACTERIA IN RECURRENT URINARY TRACT INFECTION

Recent reports have suggested a correlation between a positive antibody coated bacteria test (ACBT) and urinary tract infection (UTI) of renal origin. Studies were performed to observe whether a relationship between a + ABCT and recurrent UTI exist. A total of 34 tests were performed in 16 children with significant bacteriuria (ages 3 1/2-12 yrs, M-4, F-12). Twelve of 16 children had E. coli infection. Duration of treatment was 6 wks or longer in 13 and 2 wks in 3 children. Radlologic examination demonstrated no anatomical defect in 14 of 16 children. Follow-up was 4-14 mos. Renal tissue examined from a child with + ACBT showed changes consistent with chronic pyelonephritis, however, antibody coated bacteria was not demonstrated. In 2 untreated children with 17 recurrences sequential ACBT demonstrated alternating + or - results. The recurrence rate and the results of the ACBT are tabulated. The recurrence rate in patients with + ACBT was not significantly different from those with - ACBT. The recurrence rate in UTI can not be predicted by the results of ACBT.
Hot Hydrogen Atoms: Initiators of Reactions of Interest in Interstellar Chemistry and Evolution

Photochemically generated hot hydrogen atoms initiate reactions with simple molecular substrates including methane to produce organic alcohols, amines, acids, amino acids, and other compounds. The typical quantum yields for the formation of amino acids are 2 × 10−5 to 4 × 10−5. Hot hydrogen atoms may be important initiators of reactions in interstellar space and in planetary atmospheres.
Radionuclide angiographic evaluation of left ventricular function by resting ejection rate during the first third of systole in patients with chronic aortic regurgitation.

In previous studies the rate of left ventricular (LV) volume change during the first third of systole was shown to be a more sensitive index of cardiac performance than ejection fraction (EF) in coronary disease. To test the hypothesis that a noninvasive index of the ejection rate in early systole can also identify subtle abnormalities of LV performance in aortic regurgitation (AR), the rate of change of LV counts during the first third of systole was measured by first-pass radionuclide angiography (RNV) in 34 AR patients and in 10 normal controls. By least squares analysis a straight line was fit to the LV counts obtained at 0.025 second intervals during the first third of systole; the slope was divided by the average counts in the first third to give a rate constant (RC) proportional to LV volume change during early systole. The AR patients were divided into two groups based upon the response of EF to exercise (ΔEF). A normal response was defined as a rise equal to or greater than 5%. Group 1 comprised 19 AR patients with a normal EF response to exercise (from 60 ± 9% to 70 ± 9%), and group 2 comprised 15 AR patients with an abnormal EF response to exercise (from 58 ± 9% to 52 ± 10%). The RC obtained at rest was 9.4 ± 2.8 for group 2, significantly lower than for group 1 (15.6 ± 3.9) or controls (14.9 ± 2.6) (p 12.0. When RC was plotted vs EF for all 44 individuals, there was a significant direct relationship, r = 0.74 (p < 0.01), but with wide confidence limits. These data indicate that a noninvasive index of the rate of LV volume change during the first third of systole can identify abnormal LV reserve in AR patients with normal EF at rest.
UNCERTAINTY QUANTIFICATION OF SIMULATION CODES BASED ON EXPERIMENTAL DATA

We present an approach for assessing the uncertainties in simulation code outputs in which one focuses on the physics submodels incorporated into the code. Through a Bayesian analysis of a hierarchy of experiments that explore various aspects of the physics submodels, one can infer the sources of uncertainty, and quantify them. As an example of this approach, we describe an effort to describe the plastic-flow characteristics of a high-strength steel by combining data from basic material tests with an analysis of Taylor impact experiments. A thorough analysis of the material-characterization experiments is described, which necessarily includes the systematic uncertainties that arise form sample-to sample variations in the plastic behaviour of the specimens. The Taylor experiments can only be understood by means of a simulation code. We describe how this analysis can be done and how the results can be combined with the results of analyses of data from simpler materialcharacterization experiments.
Human pancreatic enzymes: amino acid sequence of the A-chain of human chymotrypsin II.

Abstract The A-chain of human chymotrypsin II has been isolated after oxidation of the native protein with performic acid. This peptide contains fourteen residues, one more than the A-chain of bovine δ-chymotrypsin and one less than the A-chain of bovine π-chymotrypsin. The sequence is identical to that found for the first fourteen residues of bovine chymotrypsinogen A with the exception that microheterogeneity was observed at residue six. It would appear that the production of human chymotrypsin II in activated extracts of human pancreas is due, in part, to carboxypeptidase B digestion of a π-chymotrypsin precursor.
Wolf in Sheep's Clothing: Harmful Leadership with a Moral Façade

The current qualitative study used narrative inquiry to explore white supremacist leadership and how it aligns with and differs from transformational, servant, and charismatic leadership theories. By examining the concepts and examples of leadership within the white supremacist movement, an image of harmful leadership begins to develop. These leaders were found to use leadership strategies such as creating purpose, community building, follower focus and meaning making, empowerment and motivation, and trust and respect to gain followers. These strategies were combined with detrimental approaches to leadership that included pursuing and abusing power, developing a sense of self-importance, using fear, and having a sense of isolation that contributed to a harmful leadership style. Harmful leadership and its implications for leaders and followers in more mainstream organizations are explored.
Antihypertensive action of neotetrazolium.

SummaryWhen the tetrazolium salt pp'-diphenyl bis 2-3 (3, 5 diphenyl) tetrazolium chloride (Neotetrazolium) is injected subcutaneously, it lodges in considerable amount in the sympathetic ganglia of the nervous system where it is reduced to the insoluble formazan. The satellite cells are heavily colored in contrast to the nerve cells. A series of renal hypertensive rats were given daily subcutaneous injections of from 0.25-0.5 ml of a 0.5% solution of neotetrazolium (NT) for periods of from 5-10 days and the blood pressure recorded by an indirect microphonic method on the tail. The NT lowered the blood pressure within 2 days after the treatment was initiated to levels as low as 60-70 mm Hg. Within 1 week after treatment, the pressure had returned to control levels. Subsequent injections had a comparable hypotensive action. It is suggested that NT may reduce the blood pressure by impairing the metabolic activity of the ganglionic cells, although an indirect effect on other organs such as the adrenal has no...
High energy ion implantation

Abstract High energy ion implantation offers the oppertunity for unique structures in semiconductor processing. The unusual physical properties of such implantations are discussed as well as the special problems in masking and damage annealing. A review is made of proposed circuit structures which involve deep implantation. Examples are: deep buried bipolar collectors fabricated without epitaxy, barrier layers to reduce FET memory sensitivity to soft-fails, CMOS isolation well structures, MeV implantation for customization and correction of completed circuits and graded reach-throughs to deep active device components.
Observation of incoherent relaxation by tunneling in a macroscopic two-state system.

The dynamics of a dissipative, quantized macroscopic two-state system have been experimentally investigated through the measurement of tunneling transitions between the adjacent, equal-energy fluxoid states of a superconducting loop containing Josephson junctions. The tunneling rate \ensuremath{\Gamma} has been observed to approach zero as a power law in the temperature, giving a damping parameter \ensuremath{\alpha}=1.44, in the incoherent relaxation regime. The predicted exponential dependence of \ensuremath{\Gamma} on barrier height has been quantitatively confirmed.
Synthesis and crystal structures of [H3N(CH2)2NH3]NbMOF(PO4)2(H2O)2, M = Fe,Co and [H3N(CH2)2NH3]Ti(Fe0.9Cr0.1)(F1.3O0.7)(H0.3PO4)2(H2O)2

The new niobium phosphates [H3N(CH2)2NH3]NbFeOF(PO4)2(H2O)2 and [H3N(CH2)2NH3]NbCoOF(PO4)2(H2O)2 have been synthesized in single crystal form by hydrothermal reactions at 165 °C. The new phase [H3N(CH2)2NH3]Ti(Fe0.9Cr0.1)(F1.3O0.7)(H0.3PO4)2(H2O)2 has been obtained by hydrothermal electrocrystallization at 170 °C. The crystal structures have been refined from X-ray diffraction data. They are structurally similar to the known layered iron phosphate [H3N(CH2)2NH2][Fe2F2(HPO4)2(H2O)2] designated as ULM-10 and the mineral curetonite.
Dissociation pressures in the system ytterbium-ytterbium dihydride. A comparison with calcium-calcium dihydride

Abstract The equilibrium hydrogen dissociation pressure of the system Yb-YbHn, n ranging from 0 to 1.82, has been measured from 600° to 750°C and from 0.1 to 760 mm by a modified Sieverts technique. One phase regions were found for n 1.80. The intermediate two-phase plateau pressure may be represented by the equation: log p atm = −9480 T + 7.22 This agrees closely with literature results for calcium hydride. Enthalpies and entropies of formation have been calculated from plateau data, and enthalpies and entropies of solution of hydrogen in the metal phase, have been calculated for both systems. Sieverts' law is shown not to be followed in the solutions of H in Yb. The differences between the two systems are discussed.
Systematics of energies of particle-hole states in the 2s-ld and 1f72 shells☆

Abstract The systematics of particle-hole states in the 2s-1d and 1f 7 2 shells have been analyzed in terms of the Bansal-French-Zamick weak coupling method. States considered are d − 3 2 f n 7 2 (J = 3 2 + ), ( s−d ) n 7 2 (J = 7 2 − ) and ( s−d ) n f 2 7 2 (J = 0 + and 7 + ) , the j n components corresponding to even-even ground states.
High-efficiency red electrophosphorescence devices

We demonstrate high-efficiency red electrophosphorescent organic light-emitting devices employing bis(2-(2′-benzo[4,5-a]thienyl)pyridinato-N,C3′) iridium(acetylacetonate) [Btp2Ir(acac)] as a red phosphor. A maximum external quantum efficiency of ηext=(7.0±0.5)% and power efficiency of ηp=(4.6±0.5) lm/W are achieved at a current density of J=0.01 mA/cm2. At a higher current density of J=100 mA/cm2, ηext=(2.5±0.3)% and ηp=(0.56±0.05) lm/W are obtained. The electroluminescent spectrum has a maximum at a wavelength of λmax=616 nm with additional intensity peaks at λsub=670 and 745 nm. The Commission Internationale de L’Eclairage coordinates of (x=0.68, y=0.32) are close to meeting video display standards. The short phosphorescence lifetime (∼4 μs) of Btp2Ir(acac) leads to a significant improvement in ηext at high currents as compared to the previously reported red phosphor, 2,3,7,8,12,13,17,18-octaethyl-12H, 23H-prophine platinum (II) PtOEP with a lifetime of ∼50 μs.
Preparation and properties of high modulus–tensile strength polymeric materials

A two stage drawing procedure is described for producing highly oriented polymeric materials. The high orientation of both the crystalline and amorphous phase in the semi-crystalline materials studied resulted in the materials possessing high mechanical properties. The ability to obtain high amorphous orientation is critical. Tensile strengths of 16 g/denier for polyethylene are determined, for example. The results suggest that the existence of a prominent crystalline dispersion mechanism (as observed in dynamical mechanical studies) is not necessary for the attainment of high mechanical properties. Thus a method was devised for the determination of the optimum drawing temperature.
DNase I interaction on muscle Z-line

The effect of deoxyribonuclease I on muscle Z-line structures was re-examined. Under conditions of deoxyribonuclease I activation (presence of the divalent cation Ca2+ and Mg2+), a deoxyribonuclease I preparation did not affect Z-line structure if phenylmethylsulfonylfluoride, an inhibitor of serine proteases, was also present. In the absence of protease inhibitor, both Z-lines and M-lines were digested, even in the presence of EDTA and EGTA as inhibitors of deoxyribonuclease I. These electron microscopic observations were consistent with the following results from sodium dodecyl sulphate gel electrophoresis: when the protease was inhibited but deoxyribonuclease I was activated, myofibrillar proteins remained essentially intact. However, degradation of proteins in both rabbit psoas and chicken pectoralis myofibrils was observed in the presence of deoxyribonuclease I inhibitors when the protease inhibitor was absent. Our data strongly suggest that the interaction of deoxyribonuclease I with Z-line proteins previously reported is most likely due to contamination of the deoxyribonuclease I fraction by the serine-type proteases.
Evolution of particles in the plumes of coal-fired power plants—I. Deductions from field measurements

Abstract A series of detailed airborne measurements are presented of particle size distributions and gas-toparticle (g-to-p) conversion rates at various locations in the plumes from two large coal-fired, electric power plants, situated in quite different geographical regions (Washington State and New Mexico). The particles in the plumes generally fell in three distinct size ranges characterized by geometric mean volume diameters between 0.001–0.2μm (mode 1), 0.11–0.55μm (mode 2), and 0.55–4.4 μm (mode 3). All three modes played important roles in the coagulation of particles in the plumes which, in turn, affected the particle size distributions. The concentrations of particles sometimes decreased with travel time in the centers of the plumes while increasing at the edges of the plume. In many cases, the concentrations of particles of a certain size were less in certain regions of the plume than in the ambient air. G-to-p conversion rates, which were measured by three techniques, were on the order of a few tenths of one per cent of SO 2 h −1 for the Washington plant and a few per cent of SO 2 h −1 for the New Mexico plant. These observations are interpreted, in the light of a numerical model of plumes, in Part II of this study.
The use of pharmacological retromer chaperones in Alzheimer's disease and other endosomal-related disorders.

The retromer is an evolutionary conserved multiprotein complex involved in the sorting and retrograde trafficking of cargo from endosomal compartments to the Golgi network and to the cell surface. The neuronal retromer traffics the amyloid precursor protein away from the endosomes, a site where amyloid precursor protein is enzymatically cleaved into pathogenic fragments in Alzheimer’s disease. In recent years, deficiencies in retromer-mediated transport have been implicated in several neurological and non-neurological diseases, including Parkinson’s disease, suggesting that improving the efficacy of the retromer trafficking pathway would result in decreased pathology. We recently identified a new family of small molecules that appear to stabilize the interaction between members of the retromer complex and enhance its function in neurons: the retromer pharmacological chaperones. Here we discuss the role of these molecules in the improvement of retromer trafficking and endosomal dysfunction, as well as their potential as therapeutics for neurological and non-neurological disorders.
The Value of Semen Freezing and Artificial Insemination Techniques for Preservation of Onagadori, the Japanese Long-Tailed Fowl

Experiments were conducted to determine the feasibility of applying semen freezing and artificial insemination techniques to Onagadori breeding programs. It was possible to freeze the semen, store it in liquid nitrogen, inseminate Onagadori pullets IV with 125 million frozen-thawed spermatozoa each, and obtain fertile eggs and chicks. These results suggest that semen freezing and AI may be valuable tools for maintaining this historically and physiologically significant breed.
Maximum principles for control systems described by measure functional differential equations

Three optimal control problems involving measure functional differential equations are considered. The necessary conditions, in the form of the Pontryagin maximum principle, for an optimal control are obtained. This is accomplished by the application of a theorem by Debovistskii-Milyutin. A simple example is also illustrated to show the applicability of the results obtained.
Elevated serum levels of transforming growth factor-α in breast cancer patients

Abstract Previous studies suggest that transforming growth factor-α (TGFα) may have the potential of a tumor marker. Since the levels of serum TGFα in cancer patients and healthy individuals have not been reported, we determined the serum TGFα levels of 83 breast cancer patients and 74 healthy individuals by using a TGFα radioimmunnoassay kit. All of the cancer patients sera were positive for TGFα; their TGFα concentrations ranged from 210 to 740 pg/ml, with a mean of 353 ± 98 pg/ml. Sixty-seven percent (50 cases) of normal sera were positive for TGFα; the levels ranged from 120 to 207 pg/ml, with a mean of 144 ± 17 pg/ml. The difference in serum TGFα levels between cancer patients of different disease stages and healthy individuals was found to be statistically significant by Student t -test and the Mann-Whitney test. No correlation was found between serum carcinoembryonic antigen and TGFα levels. The potential of serum immunoreactive TGFα as a marker for breast cancer warrants further investigation.
Does background postnatal methyl mercury exposure in toddlers affect cognition and behavior

Because the toxicological effects of mercury (Hg) are more serious in the developing central nervous system of children than adults, there are growing concerns about prenatal and early childhood Hg exposure. This study examined postnatal methylmercury (MeHg) exposure and cognition and behavior in 780 children enrolled in the Treatment of Lead (Pb)-exposed Children clinical trial (TLC) with 396 children allocated to the succimer and 384 to the placebo groups. Mercury exposure was determined from analyses of blood drawn 1 week before randomization and 1 week after treatment began when succimer had its maximal effect on blood Pb (PbB). The baseline MeHg concentrations were 0.54 microg/L and 0.52 microg/L and post-treatment concentrations were 0.51 microg/L and 0.48 microg/L for placebo and succimer groups, respectively. Because the baseline characteristics in the two groups were balanced and because succimer had little effect on MeHg concentration and no effect on the cognitive or behavioral test scores, the groups were combined in the analysis of MeHg and neurodevelopment. The children's IQ and neurobehavioral performance were tested at age 2, 5 and 7 years. We saw weak, non-significant but consistently positive associations between blood MeHg and IQ test scores in stratified, spline regression and generalized linear model data analyses. The behavioral problem scores were constant or decreased slightly with increasing MeHg concentration. Additional adjustment for PbB levels in multivariable models did not alter the conclusion for MeHg and IQ scores, but did confirm that concurrent PbB was strongly associated with IQ and behavior in TLC children. The effects of MeHg on neurodevelopmental indices did not substantially differ by PbB strata. We conclude that at the present background postnatal MeHg exposure levels of US children, adverse effects on children's IQ and behavior are not detectable.
Modifying instruction within tiers in multitiered intervention programs

Response to Intervention provides a continuum of instruction across intensity levels through multitiered intervention models. A lot of work to date has been devoted to how to configure tiers to ensure the appropriate increases in intensity. Much less work has been devoted to making adjustments within tiers to attempt to forestall the need for moving students to a more intense level of instruction when the student is not making adequate progress. This article provides a simple model for evaluating the current instruction to look for areas in which it can be adjusted before more restrictive measures are taken. The model draws from the literature on functional assessment of academic performance. Teachers and consultants are advised to check (a) the skills targeted for instruction, (b) guided practice, (c) independent practice, (d) implementation fidelity, and (e) the motivating conditions that are present during instruction. The role of each area in student learning and progress is discussed, and recommendations are made for adjustments. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optical performance analysis and optimization of large telescope structural designs

We describe a tool to analyze the effects of gravity induced deflections on a telescope structure with segmented primary mirror optics. An objective of the telescope structural design process is to minimize image quality degradation due to uncorrectable static deflections of the optics under gravity, while ensuring that the overall system meets several requirements including limits of maximum primary mirror actuator stroke, segment rotation and decenter, and secondary mirror actuation. These design and performance criteria are not readily calculated within a finite element program. Our Merit Function routine, implemented in MATLAB and called by ANSYS, calculates these parameters and makes them available within ANSYS for evaluation and design optimization. In this analysis, ANSYS outputs key structural-model nodal displacements to a file, which are used to determine the 6 degree of freedom motion of the telescope's optical surfaces. MATLAB then utilizes these displacements, along with a database containing coordinate system transforms and a linear optics model derived from ZEMAX, to calculate various performance criteria. The values returned to ANSYS can be used to iteratively optimize performance over a set of structural design parameters. Optical parameters calculated by this routine include the optical path difference at the pupil, RMS wavefront, encircled energy and low order Zernike terms resulting from primary mirror segment rotation and decenter. Also reported are the maximum actuator strokes required to restore tip-tilt and piston of the primary mirror segments, and the deflection of the secondary mirror under gravitational load. The merit function routine is being used by the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project to optimize and assess the performance of various telescope structural designs. This paper describes the mathematical basis of the calculations, their implementation and gives preliminary results of the TMT Telescope Structure Reference Design.
Psychophysical evidence for sustained and transient channels in the monkey visual system

Abstract A number of electrophysiological studies have shown sustained and transient neurons in the monkey visual system. These findings are consistent with the large number of psychophysical experiments in which the data are best interpreted on the basis of sustained and transient channels in the human visual system. In the present study, three experimental procedures which have provided strong evidence for sustained and transient channels for human observers were replicated using 4 rhesus monkeys as subjects. All three procedures were based on detection of grating patterns generated on the CRT of an oscilloscope. Data were collected to obtain (1) reaction time distributions for near threshold contrast levels as a function of the spatial frequency of the gratings, (2) contrast sensitivity as a function of viewing duration for several spatial frequencies and (3) mean reaction time as a function of contrast for suprathreshold gratings. The reaction time histograms for near threshold stimuli showed a bimodal distribution of reaction times for low spatial frequencies and a unimodal distribution for higher spatial frequencies. The contrast sensitivity versus viewing duration curves showed that the slope of the function above a critical duration was nearly zero for low spatial frequencies and had a slope of approx 0.3 for higher spatial frequencies. The suprathreshold reaction time data showed a biphasic function for midrange spatial frequencies, but a monophasic function for high and low spatial frequencies. The data from all 3 experiments were consistent with similar data reported for human subjects and, therefore, to the extent that human data reflect the existence of sustained and transient channels, so do the monkey data.
iso-DGR Sequences Do Not Mediate Binding of Fibronectin N-terminal Modules to Adherent Fibronectin-null Fibroblasts

Fibronectin (FN) without an RGD sequence (FN-RGE), and thus lacking the principal binding site for alpha5beta1 integrin, is deposited into the extracellular matrix of mouse embryos. Spontaneous conversion of (263)NGR and/or (501)NGR to iso-DGR possibly explains this enigma, i.e. ligation of iso-DGR by alphavbeta3 integrin may allow cells to assemble FN. Partial modification of (263)NGR to DGR or iso-DGR was detected in purified plasma FN by mass spectrometry. To test functions of the conversion, one or both NGR sequences were mutated to QGR in recombinant N-terminal 70-kDa construct of FN (70K), full-length FN, or FN-RGE. The mutations did not affect the binding of soluble 70K to already adherent fibroblasts or the ability of soluble 70K to compete with non-mutant FN or FN-RGE for binding to FN assembly sites. Non-mutant FN and FN-N263Q/N501Q with both NGRs mutated to QGRs were assembled equally well by adherent fibroblasts. FN-RGE and FN-RGE-N263Q/N501Q were also assembled equally well. Although substrate-bound 70K mediated cell adhesion in the presence of 1 mm Mn(2+) by a mechanism that was inhibited by cyclic RGD peptide, the peptide did not inhibit 70K binding to cell surface. Mutations of the NGR sequences had no effect on Mn(2+)-enhanced cell adhesion to adsorbed 70K but caused a decrease in cell adhesion to reduced and alkylated 70K. These results demonstrate that iso-DGR sequences spontaneously converted from NGR are cryptic and do not mediate the interaction of the 70K region of FN with the cell surface during FN assembly.
Weighted Classical Variogram Estimation for Data With Clustering

The classical variogram estimate is convenient but can be unacceptably variable. Improved estimators are possible, especially when the locations of the available data are highly clustered. Using a simple theoretical example, we demonstrate that weighting can dramatically increase the efficiency of classical variogram estimates from clustered data. We give expressions for the weights that lead to minimal variance estimators and indicate some obstacles to the use of these weights. We then introduce a simple iterative weighting scheme intended to approximate optimal weighting. We apply the new weighting to the example that motivated this research—estimating the variogram of home radon levels—and demonstrate its performance in a simulation study.
Guidelines for donor lung selection: time for revision?

Background Few data support current guidelines for donor selection in lung transplantation. We determined degree of compliance with current donor guidelines, effect of these and variances on survival, and other donor factors predicting survival. Methods From July 1999 to June 2008, 10,333 primary transplants were performed in the US, with United Network for Organ Sharing data available for age, ABO type, chest radiograph, arterial difference in partial pressure of oxygen (Pao 2 ) greater than 300 on 100% fraction of inspired oxygen, smoking, absence of aspiration/sepsis, and purulent secretions. Multivariable survival methods were used to determine relevance of these and new variables, adjusted for recipient risk factors. Results In 56% of transplants, variance from at least one guideline was observed: chest radiograph, 41%; smoking, 21%; and Pao 2 , 18%; but rarely ABO compatibility (0.06%). Practice within guidelines was not associated with increased mortality. Common variances from guidelines; eg, Pao 2 /fraction of inspired oxygen down to 230, were not associated with increased mortality, but smoking ( p = 0.02) was. New donor variables associated with increased mortality were diabetes ( p = 0.001), presence of cytomegalovirus antibodies ( p p = 0.02), African-American ( p = 0.005), blood type A ( p = 0.02), death other than from head trauma ( p = 0.02), and gender ( p = 0.02), race ( p = 0.03), and size ( p = 0.002) discordances. Conclusions Variance from current donor guidelines for lung transplantation is frequent; analysis suggests that donor Pao 2 ranges can be widened and a suspicious chest radiograph, evidence of sepsis, and purulent bronchial secretions ignored. Older age and smoking history appear to have a minor impact. New and possibly important factors identified suggest the need to better understand the impact of a wider range of donor variables on recipient outcomes.
Problems of Epilepsy In the Adolescent

The problems of the epileptic adolescent are of such severity, and of such impor tance in relation to the ultimate adjust ment of the individual, that they deserve special consideration in any discussion of this age period.
Enhanced Facilitatory Neuronal Dynamics for Delay Compensation

Our earlier work has suggested that neuronal transmission delay may cause serious problems unless a compensation mechanism exists. In that work, facilitating neuronal dynamics was found to be effective in battling delay (the facilitating activation network model, or FAN). A systematic analysis showed that the previous FAN model has a subtle problem especially when high facilitation rates are used. We derived an improved facilitating dynamics at the neuronal level to overcome this limitation. In this paper, we tested our proposed approach in 2D pole balancing controllers, where it was shown to perform better than the previous FAN model. We also systematically tested the correlation between delay duration on the one hand and facilitation rate that effectively overcome the increasing delay on the other hand. Finally, we investigated the differential utilization of facilitating dynamics in sensory vs. motor neurons and found that motor neurons utilize the facilitating dynamics more than the sensory neurons. These findings are expected to help us better understand the role of facilitation in natural and artificial agents.
A comparison of the sensitivity of photodamage assays in rat basophilic leukemia cells.

Many aspects of cellular function or physiology can be used to indicate the level of damage resulting from the application of potentially deleterious agents such as drugs, solvents or even light. The dose required to reach a specific biological endpoint will necessarily depend on the characteristics of the damage induced by the agent. By using multiple biological probes, it is possible to get a more complete description of the type of damage induced. Photodamage was induced in rat basophilic leukemia cells by either 254-nm UVC light exposure or rose bengal photosensitization. Damage was measured by three quantitative assays employing fluorescent probes: calcein, to measure nonspecific esterase activity, propidium iodide (PI), to measure loss of plasma membrane integrity, rhodamine 123 (R123) to measure mitochondrial depolarization, and the incorporation of 5′-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU), to measure the progress of cell replication. BrdU incorporation was found to be the most sensitive indicator for both forms of photodamage. For UVC photodamage, the BrdU assay was 330 times more sensitive than the other two assays. For rose bengal photosensitization, the BrdU assay was 48 or 62 times more sensitive than either the R123 or calcein/PI assays, respectively.
Logic-structure tables

Logic tables are an excellent way of developing and expressing the logic required in procedures, operations, systems and circuits. A set of rules for writing and using logic tables is explained by means of some simple examples. Then the logic structure of a vending machine is given in which two logic tables are used. Logic tables are two-dimensional in nature, enabling us to fully express and consider both the sequential and parallel aspects of logic. They can be compiled directly into a computer program and so eliminate the need for flow charting and hand coding.
Qualities and attributes desired in menopause clinicians

Abstract Objective To assess the qualities and attributes desired in menopause clinicians. Design Women ≥45 years of age ( n =72) were surveyed about the qualities and attributes desired in their physician. Surveys were performed in physician waiting rooms in Connecticut. Results Although fewer men are entering the practice of ObGyn, more than 88% of peri- and post-menopausal women believe that gender does not affect the quality of their women's health provider. Among the 68 women from whom valid data were obtained, experience (95.6%), knowledge (95.6%), and ability (92.6%) were the most important qualities. Only 4.2% listed gender in the top three most important qualities. If the patient's visit was for wellness- and screening-related issues, 6.6% ( n =4) preferred a male, 13.1% ( n =8) preferred a female, and 80.3% ( n =49) had no preference for gender. The percentage of patients preferring to see a female was slightly higher (29.2%) if the visit was for a pelvic exam, while the percentage preferring to see a male (14.5%) was greater if care involved gynecological surgery. Conclusions As medical practices meet the increasing demand of menopausal women, it is helpful to know the qualities and attributes that patients desire. Menopause clinicians should seek to convey experience, knowledge, and competence to their patients. A menopause practice should strive for a well-diversified team that will bring these qualities to menopausal patients. Given the shifting balance of male and female ObGyn providers, when hiring providers or establishing a menopause clinic, it is helpful to know that gender diversification is of minor importance.
An exploratory study of substance use and misuse among college students with and without ADHD and other disabilities

Objective: The present study investigated potential differences between college students with and without disabilities (including ADHD, Asperger’s syndrome, executive functioning disorder, and learning, mental health, vision, hearing, and physical/chronic disabilities) regarding self-reported substance use and misuse, perceived stress, and sensation seeking. Method: Students responded to a Stimulant Survey Questionnaire (SSQ), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), Sensation-Seeking Scale (SSS), and items from the National College Health Assessment (NCHA). Results: The hypotheses were part supported as MANOVA results revealed that students with disabilities provided significantly lower ratings on the SSS and also reported lower alcohol and marijuana use. Students with ADHD were more likely to use or misuse prescription stimulant medication but were less likely to use alcohol than did students without ADHD. Conclusion: Students with disabilities compared to those without disabilities differed on levels of sensation seeking and alcohol and marijuana use. (J. of Att. Dis. 2010; XX(X) 1-XX)
Internet Workshop and Blog Publishing: Meeting Student (and Teacher) Learning Needs to Achieve Best Practice in the Twenty-First-Century Social Studies Classroom

Social studies educators are responsible for successfully teaching students the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to be effective citizens. The National Council for the Social Studies urges educators to design technology-enhanced experiences that address social studies content and prepare students for effective citizenship. In this paper, we give examples from a piratical unit designed for a fourth-grade social studies classroom to highlight the role digital technology can play in enhancing social studies teaching and learning. We use Internet workshops as structures for students to meaningfully research social studies content, and we use blogs as technological tools to publish and showcase authentic student work, and ultimately, to develop students' higher order thinking skills and creativity.
The Demography of Colony Fission from 1878–1970 Among the Hutterites of North America

A demographic analysis of the growth of the Hutterite population in North America during the past century is presented. The emphasis is on the fission of colonies into mother and daughter communities and on changes over time in the size and composition of the respective communities. (ANNOTATION)
Timing-driven partitioning and timing optimization of mixed static-domino implementations

Domino logic is a circuit family that is well-suited to implementing high-speed circuits. Synthesis of domino circuits is more complex than static logic synthesis due to the noninverting nature of the logic and the complex timing relationships associated with the clock scheme. In this paper, we address several problems along a domino synthesis flow. We mainly consider the problem of partitioning a circuit into static and domino regions under timing constraints. The algorithm is extended to develop a method for partitioning domino logic into two phases, with inverters permitted between the two phases, and then to a flow for general two-phase static-domino partitioning. We also address a timing verification and sizing optimization tool for circuits containing mixed domino and static logic.
Vicissitudes of the South Carolina Railroad, 1865-1878: A Case Study in Reconstruction and Regional Traffic Development

C The Best Friend of Charleston was a famous locomotive engine, but the real best friend of Charleston was the engine's owner, the South Carolina Railroad. Together the city and the railroad faced and endured the rigors of Reconstruction; both held fast to an ante-bellum dream of regional dominance. The railroad made bold moves to acquire the trunk lines and feeder systems that would make Charleston a Gateway to the West. But frustrating forces were at work. Developing traffic patterns did not favor Charleston, and profligate multiplication of competing lines cut into existing business. Rate agreements and pooling arrangements gave the company only mild relief at best. By 1878 Charleston had resigned itself to its role as a local trading center, and the SCRR was in bankruptcy, the victim of circumstances too powerful for even the most competent of managements to combat.
Are Learning Organizations Pragmatic

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the future prospects of the popular concept known as the learning organization; to trace the influence of philosophical pragmatism on the learning organization and to consider its potential impact on the future; and to emphasize how pragmatic theories have shaped the development of Deming's total quality management approach and Toyota's lean manufacturing system.Design/methodology/approach – The concepts presented are mainly built on a historical analysis of various theories of philosophical pragmatism and organizational management. These theories are contrasted with state‐of‐the‐art practices used in business.Findings – Many organizational learning theories are rooted in philosophical pragmatism, yet these models often only borrow small pieces from a larger, more systemic framework. It is argued here that this truncated use of such principles causes unintended consequences and general ineffectiveness.Originality/value – The value is to see the evolution ...
Isoflurane as an inhalation anesthetic for muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus).

The effectiveness of isoflurane as an inhalation anesthetic for muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus) was evaluated. Thirty muskrats were anesthetized in an enclosed chamber using 10 ml of isoflurane in Carlton County, Minnesota (USA), from 27 September to 24 October 1994. Mean (±SE) induction time for adults, juveniles, and kits was 20.6 ± 2.9, 21.5 ± 2.4, and 16.9 ± 5.3 min, respectively (P = 0.77). Respective mean arousal times for adults, juveniles, and kits were 5.1 ± 0.5, 5.7 ± 0.7, and 5.7 ± 0.6 min (P = 0.78). Heart rate, respiration rate, and body temperature were similar among age classes (P = 0.08 to 0.58). Mortality (3.3%) was comparable to that of other inhalation anesthetics. No short-term adverse effects were observed in recaptured individuals. Isoflurane is a safe and effective inhalation anesthetic for muskrats, although prolonged induction may limit its use in field studies.
Photochemistry of the martian atmosphere: Seasonal, latitudinal, and diurnal variations

Abstract There is a significant progress in the observational data relevant to Mars photochemistry in the current decade. These data are not covered by and sometimes disagree with the published models. Therefore we consider three types of models for Mars photochemistry. A steady-state model for global-mean conditions is currently the only way to calculate the abundances of long living species (H2, O2, and CO). However, our model does not fit the observed CO abundance using gas-phase chemistry and reasonable values of heterogeneous loss of odd hydrogen on the water ice aerosol. The second type of the calculated models is steady-state models for local conditions. The MGS/TES data on temperature profiles, H2O, and dust are input parameters for these models. The calculations have been made for nine seasonal points spread over the martian year and for twelve latitudes with a step of 10° for each season. The only adopted heterogeneous reaction is a weak loss of H2O2 on water ice with probability of 5 × 10 −4 . The results are in good agreement with the recent observations of the O2 dayglow at 1.27 μm and the O3 and H2O2 abundances. Global maps of the seasonal and latitudinal behavior of these species have been made. The third type of models is a time-dependent model for local conditions. These models show that odd hydrogen quickly converts to H2O2 at the nighttime and the chemistry is switched off while the association of O, the heterogeneous loss of H2O2, and eddy diffusion continue. This requires significant changes in the global-mean and local steady-state models discussed above, and these changes have been properly done. The calculated diurnal variations of Mars photochemistry are discussed. The martian photochemistry at low and middle latitudes is significantly different in the aphelion period at L S = 10 ° – 130 ° from that in the remaining part of the year.