cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of Pd Particle Size and Ceria Loading on NO Reduction with CO

Abstract The kinetics of the NO+CO reaction from 433 to 573 K were studied over supported Pd with and without ceria promotion. In addition, temperature-programmed desorption (TPD) of products formed from preadsorbed NO was performed. For the ceria-promoted samples, the interface between Pd and ceria was changed by varying particle size and the amount of ceria postdeposited on the Pd particles. The Pd particle size affected both activity and apparent reaction orders. For the unpromoted catalyst, the Pd particle size of about 4.5-nm average diameter, determined by dihydrogen chemisorption, had a lower turnover frequency than 1-nm size particles, indicating structure sensitivity of the NO+CO reaction. However, the ceria-promoted samples showed a maximum in catalytic activity for 2-nm Pd. This maximum in reaction rate suggests a balance between the Pd/pceria interface which promotes NO dissociation and the Pd metal surface which catalyzes product formation. Results from TPD of adsorbed NO are consistent with this interpretation. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy was used to confirm the proximity of small ceria crystallites to the supported Pd particles.
The Estimation of Temperature Distribution in Cylindrical Battery Cells Under Unknown Cooling Conditions

The estimation of temperature inside a battery cell requires accurate information about the cooling conditions even when the battery surface temperature is measured. This paper presents a model-based approach for estimating temperature distribution inside a cylindrical battery under unknown convective cooling conditions. A reduced-order thermal model using a polynomial approximation of the temperature profile inside the battery is used. A dual Kalman filter (DKF), a combination of a Kalman filter and an extended Kalman filter, is then applied for the identification of the convection coefficient and the estimation of the battery core temperature. The thermal properties are modeled by volume averaged lumped-values under the assumption of a homogeneous and isotropic volume. The model is parameterized and validated using experimental data from a 2.3 Ah 26650 lithium-iron-phosphate battery cell with a forced-air convective cooling during hybrid electric vehicle drive cycles. Experimental results show that the proposed DKF-based estimation method can provide an accurate prediction of the core temperature under unknown cooling conditions by measuring battery current and voltage along with surface and ambient temperatures.
FORMATIVE PERIOD AND MIDDLE HORIZON OCCUPATIONS AT THE HUARACANE SETTLEMENT OF YAHUAY ALTA IN THE MIDDLE MOQUEGUA VALLEY, PERU

espanolLa problematica del asentamiento de Huaracane tardio, contemporaneo con colonias de Wari y Tiwanaku en el valle medio de Moquegua ha sido particularmente molesto para los investigadores. Ninguna de las fechas de radiocarbono publicadas actualmente han confirmado que los asentamientos Huaracane en el valle fueron ocupadas despues de los 340 d.C. Aun hasta hace poco no se conocia ninguna datacion proveniente de contextos domesticos. Durante la temporada de campo del ano 2006, fueron tomadas ocho muestras desde contextos domesticos del sitio Huaracane de Yahuay Alta, con el proposito de afinar la cronologia regional establecida. Por otro lado, esta investigacion representa un paso importante hacia el entendimiento de la relacion entre los agricultores locales de Huaracane y las colonias Tiwanaku y Wari EnglishThe issue of late Huaracane contemporaneity with Wari and Tiwanaku colonies in Moquegua valley has been particularly vexing for researchers. No currently published radiocarbon dates can confirm that Huaracane settlements in the valley were occupied after AD 340. Yet until recently, no dates were taken from domestic contexts. During the 2006 field season, eight new radiocarbon dates were taken from the Huaracane settlement of Yahuay Alta. The contexts for these dates and how they fit within the established regional chronology will be discussed. This research represents an important step towards understanding the relationship between indigenous Huaracane agriculturalists and Middle Horizon colonists
High Average Power Solid State Laser Developments At Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

The purpose of the High Average Power Solid State Laser Program at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory is to develop new technologies for significantly increasing the average power capability, beam quality, efficiency, and wavelength agility of solid state lasers. The program emphasis is to advanced the state-of-the-art and is not directed toward a specific application. The performance objectives are more quantitatively defined in the following table.
In vitro effects of toxaphene on mitochondrial calcium ATPase and calcium uptake in selected rat tissues

In vitro effects of toxaphene on Ca/sup 2 +/-ATPase activity and /sup 45/Ca/sup 2 +/-uptake were studied in mitochondrial fractions of heart, kidney and liver tissues of rat. Mitochondrial fractions were prepared by the conventional centrifugation method. Ca/sup 2 +/-ATPase activity was determined by measuring the inorganic phosphate liberated during ATP hydrolysis. Toxaphene inhibited Ca/sup 2 +/-ATPase in a concentration dependent manner in all the three tissues. Substrate activation kinetics, with heart, kidney and liver tissue fractions, revealed that toxaphene inhibited Ca/sup 2 +/-ATPase activity non-competetively by decreasing the maximum velocity of the enzyme without affecting the enzyme-substrate affinity. Toxaphene also inhibited mitochondrial /sup 45/Ca/sup 2 +/-uptake in the three selected tissues in a concentration dependent manner. These results indicate that toxaphene is an inhibitor of mitochondrial Ca/sup 2 +/-ATPase and calcium transport in heart, kidney and liver tissues of rat. 19 references, 5 figures.
Quantitative Application for SDS–PAGE in a Biochemistry Lab

A variety of laboratory experiments have been published in this Journal describing the use of polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis to investigate different properties of proteins, including determination of the subunit composition of individual proteins and molar mass. The experiment described extends the capabilities of this experimental technique and provides a mechanism to determine the concentration of a single protein from a heterogeneous mixture.
Albert Camus: Pour une culture européenne sans eurocentrisme

S'appuyant sur quelques textes pivots allant de la correspondance avec Jean Grenier a une interview sur l'Europe de 1957, cette etude retrace, a travers la biographie intellectuelle et morale d'Albert Camus, les composantes majeures de son esprit synthetique. Ces textes revelent que sur tous les plans de ses activites diverses, il a systematiquement tente de faire entrer ses preoccupations politiques dans une perspective socioculturelle plus englobante et donc plus juste. La synthese paradigmatique de cet effort nous est fournie dans L'Homme revolte et reste toujours actuelle.
Fast parallel arithmetic via modular representation

An almost uniform $NC^1 $ circuit family for integer division is presented. The circuit size is $O(n^6 / \log (n))$. The circuit design is based on modular representation for integers below $2^n $. In particular, a very efficient technique is introduced for computing “$a < b$?” when a and b in modular representation. This leads to a uniform $NC^1 $ circuit of $O(n^2 )$ size for comparison of integers in modular representation.
Elf: computer automation and error correction for a microwave network analyzer

A microwave measurement system has been developed that combines a personal computer (PC) and an conventional vector network analyzer to yield a full complex-error-corrected automatic network analyzer. The system consists of a Hewlett-Packard HP 8410C network analyzer, an HP 8350B sweep oscillator, and an IBM PC. A program called Elf runs on the PC, performing calibration and measurement algorithms and providing a flexible, menu-oriented user interface. The system, when calibrated, achieves a worst-case measurement error vector of magnitude >
Remaking the North American food system: strategies for sustainability

edited by C.C. Hinrichs and T.A. Lyson, Lincoln, NE, University of Nebraska Press, 2007, 370 pp., £20.99 (paperback), ISBN 978-0803227903Remaking the North American Food System is an edited compila...
Effects of age and available response time on ability to step over an obstacle

BACKGROUND: Falls during walking are often triggered when a foot contacts an obstacle in its path. Yet little is known about the ability of individuals of any age to successfully negotiate obstacles, especially under time-critical conditions. METHODS: The gait of 24 young and 24 old healthy adults (mean ages 23 and 73 years) was studied as they approached and tried to avoid stepping on a band of light, not knowing when or where it might appear on an 8 m-long walkway. This virtual obstacle was placed at the predicted location of the next footfall with available response times (ART) before heel strike that were varied randomly in 50 ms increments from 200 to 450 ms. In addition, their gait was observed as they stepped over a fixed virtual obstacle and over an obstacle that appeared with approximately a 1000 ms ART. RESULTS: The old had an increased risk of obstacle contact while negotiating obstacles under time-critical conditions (p = .082). Mean rates-of-success (RS) in obstacle avoidance for the young ranged from .205 at a 200 ms ART to .969 at a .450 ms ART. Corresponding mean RS for the old were .157 and .920. Lower extremity simple reaction time (SRT) test made under static conditions showed that the mean SRT of the old were approximately 80 ms longer than those of the young. Regression analyses suggested that the old in fact would have needed only 30 ms additional ART to achieve RS equal to that of the young for obstacles appearing with ART from 300 to 450 ms. CONCLUSIONS: Reductions in ART significantly decreased RS. Delays as small as 50 or 100 ms in observing or reacting to obstacles in real-life situations may significantly lower the rate of success that subjects of any age have in avoiding them. Age differences in SRT do not always reliably indicate age differences in obstacle avoidance under time-critical situations. Language: en
Modeling the Performance of an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler

Abstract A systematic examination of measurement error in acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) velocity estimates, in the limit of large signal-to-noise ratio, is made using a system model and sonar signal simulations coupled into an ADCP. The model is extremely successful in predicting ADCP performance. The signal simulations provide model validation. Three main sources of error are examined: frequency tracking, measurement variance (inherent variance of pulse-to-pulse incoherent volume reverberation), and measurement bias. A theoretical lower bound on measurement variance is directly tested by coupling simulated signals into an ADCP. The observed measurement variance is approximately twice the theoretical value and varies as the inverse of the product of the pulse and averaging period (bin). Model predictions of velocity errors for back-to-back beam pairs measuring a sequence of increasing velocity-shear profiles in a medium of randomly distributed scatterers are in excellent agreement with errors m...
Qualities of the Stages of Concern Questionnaire and Implications for Educational Innovations

Abstract This article demonstrates a test of the Concerns-Based Adoption Model, a hierarchical framework for conceptualizing the concerns that professionals may have about an innovation, and the Stages of Concern Questionnaire, an instrument designed to assess trainee concerns. The study was conducted in the context of inservice training for professionals working in early intervention programs for infants and preschoolers with disabilities. A five-stage model, as opposed to the original seven-stage model, was found to be a more parsimonious and psychometrically consistent framework for conceptualizing needs. Data are presented in support of a revised model and a reorganized and shortened Stages of Concern Questionnaire. Implications for future training and research efforts are discussed.
Biofeedback therapy technique for treatmentof urinary incontinence

Biofeedback treatment of urinary incontinence is a management method that has low risk and therapeutic efficacy for selected patients. Biofeedback therapy techniques vary widely and have not been well described or standardized. A technique for biofeedback therapy is described that allows accurate signal monitoring and assures appropriate biofeedback to the patient. External anal sphincter electromyographic performance is presented to the patient as a color line graph with pitch variable audio feedback. The method has complete flexibility in providing biofeedback training according to patient performance level and is one that can be easily interpreted by patients who have voiding dysfunctions.
Developing a service for biologic therapies: a personal experience

Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) has been identified in the pathogenesis of synovitis and joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Therefore selected targeting of pathogenic elements of disease is possible (Chu et al., 1991). TNFalpha is a pro-inflammatory cytokine (mediator) and the over-expression of mediators is considered to be responsible for the damage to articular cartilage in bones. Elevated levels of TNFalpha, correlating with disease activity, have been measured in the serum and synovial fluid of patients with rheumatic diseases and are therefore an ideal target for therapy (Mangge et al., 1995; Cope et al., 1992). The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) approved the use of two therapies; entanercept (Enbrel) and infliximab (Remicade) for use in patients with active RA in 2002 (NICE, 2002). Other biologic treatments including adalimumab (D2E7) and anakinra (Kineret) will also be available for use in the future. This paper explores the development of a service to provide these therapies to patients.
Comparison of Intravascular Ultrasound Measurements at the Sites of Balloon Dilatations of Femoral Arteries With Measurements of Postmortem Gross Arterial Segments at the Same Sites

Intravascular ultrasound measurements of arterial cross-sectional area at the site of balloon dilatation are quantitatively accurate and consistent with measurements by digital planimetry. Lumen cross-sectional area determinations are virtually the same and the minor differences in total arterial cross-sectional area are probably related to the dehydration of each specimen, which occurred during the interval between studies. Thus, arterial disruption by balloon angioplasty does not interfere with the quantitative accuracy of intravascular ultrasound measurements.
RESPIRATION AND P32 UPTAKE IN VARIOUS SPECIES OF FRESHWATER ALGAE AS AFFECTED BY A CURRENT1

SUMMARY Lotic species of freshwater algae have a higher respiratory rate in a current as compared with that in still water. Species in 4 classes (Chlorophyceae, Xan-thophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Rhodophyceae) were tested. A correspondingly higher uptake of P32 was also noted. The fact that the increase in metabolic rate results from the sweeping effect of a current was indicated by the lower mineral uptake of filaments floating free in a current as compared with that of filaments held still in the current in the same container. The current effect was evident even at current speeds as low as 1-4 cm jsec.
Normal coordinate analysis of isotactic polystyrene: 1. A force field for monosubstituted alkyl benzenes

Abstract The normal modes for toluene, toluene D8, and ethyl benzene are calculated starting from a revised force field for benzene. A good agreement is obtained between calculated and observed frequencies.
Tolerance & Forgiveness: Virtues or Vices?

This paper explores the relationship between tolerance, forgiveness, and justice. Contrary to prevailing wisdom, it argues that tolerance and forgiveness are not independent virtues vying with justice for our allegiance, but that they fall under justice’s imperative to judge other people objectively and treat them as they deserve. Misguided extensions of tolerance and forgiveness imperil the very values that ethics is designed to promote. Thus tolerance and forgiveness are neither virtues nor vices; they are appropriate only when authorised by justice. The paper clarifies the common confusion of tolerance with respect for individuals’ rights, and argues that forgiveness is not a supererogatory act of generosity, but is sometimes morally required.
Plasma physics aspects of tunnel-ionized gases.

Tunnel-ionized plasmas have been studied through experiments and particle simulations. Experimentally, x-ray measurements show that the plasma temperature is higher for a circularly polarized laser-produced plasma compared to when linear polarization is used. A higher parallel temperature than expected from the single-particle tunneling model was observed through Compton scattering fluctuation spectra. Simulations indicate that stochastic heating and the Weibel instability play an important role in plasma heating in all directions and isotropization.
A model for carrier-mediated iron transport.

Abstract A model transport system is described in which iron can be quantitatively transported from an outside compartment to an inside compartment separated by an organic phase. Transport is dependent upon the presence of a ferric ionophore, ferrichrome or ferrichrome A. The metal is reduced to the ferrous state by ascorbic acid in the inner compartment and trapped by the water-soluble ferrous chelator, ferrozine. The iron-trapping mechanism provides a thermodynamic drive analogous to trapping by heme synthesis in vivo. Conditions are described which allow ferrichrome, but not ferrichrome A, to act as an ionophore. It is shown that transfer of iron from ferrichrome A to deferriferrichrome is kinetically possible, suggesting a role for ferrichrome A in vivo.
Effect of lipoxygenase products on choriogonadotropin secretion by cultured human choriocarcinoma JEG-3 cells pre- and post-stimulation with epidermal growth factor and a phorbol ester

Abstract Previous studies using arachidonic acid and preferential inhibitors of the arachidonic acid pathway have implicated the lipoxygenase system in choriogonadotropin (hCG) secretion by JEG-3 cells. Presently, JEG-3 cells are used in order to examine the effect of lipoxygenase products on hCG secretion. Results show that 30 μM 15-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (15-HETE) induces an approximately 3-fold increase in basal hCG secretion, while 5-HETE, 12-HETE, and leukotriene LTA 4 have no significant effect. In addition, 15-HETE potentiates the stimulation of hCG secretion induced by 3 nM epidermal growth factor (EGF), but has no significant effect on the stimulation of hCG induced by 22 nM tetradecanoylphorbol acetate (TPA). The present study further implicates the arachidonic acid pathway in the control of hCG secretion and documents that the effect of EGF can be rate-limited by a product of the lipoxygenase system.
Revision of the Hoplolaiminae (Nematoda) Iv. Peltamigratus N. Gen. 1)

Peltamigratus n. gen. is proposed with Peltamigratus christiei (Golden & Taylor, 1956) n. comb. as the type species. Peltamigratus is distinguished from the closely related genera Scutellonema Andrassy, 1958 and Aorolaimus Sher, 1963, by the location of the enlarged phasmids in the posterior part of the body above the anus and not opposite one another, the absence of striation on the lip region and the indented caudal alae. Four new species of Peltamigratus n. gen. are proposed.
Use of tolazoline enhanced superior mesenteric arteriography to improve opacification of a cecal vascular ectasia: A case report

The use of vasodilators to enhance venous opacification during superior mesenteric arteriography is well established. This is a report on the use of intra-arterial tolazoline hydrochloride during angiography to improve opacification of a cecal vascular ectasia which was poorly demonstrated on an arteriogram performed without tolazoline.
Adaptive workload shaping for power savings on disk drives

In order to reduce the amount of power consumption in data centers, it is becoming necessary to shut off or slow down disks that are not actively serving user requests. In addition to exploiting disk drive idleness, system features are in place that shape a disk's workload by redirecting portions of it elsewhere, with the goal to expand the periods of idleness and the potential for power savings. In this paper, we propose several workload shaping techniques that determine which part of the working set to copy elsewhere using temporal and spatial access frequencies in the workload. These workload shaping techniques, used within an analytic estimation methodology, enable a fully automated framework that determines on-line for the current workload which, if any, shaping technique to activate such that the power saving benefits are maximized without violating performance targets. Extensive trace-driven evaluation shows that the proposed workload shaping techniques complement each-other with regard to their abilities to enhance idleness in disk drives for a wide range of workload characteristics. This results to added power savings in a data center even when performance targets are stringent and workloads intensive.
A comparison of urinary arsenic speciation via direct nebulization and on-line photo-oxidation–hydride generation with IC separation and ICP-MS detection

Urinary arsenic speciation provides information on recent arsenic exposure. The literature reported analysis of NIST SRM 2670 Freeze-dried Urine indicates considerable discrepancy in species specific concentration. In this study, two complementary sample introduction pathways, direct nebulization (DN) and hydride generation (HG), were utilized and compared for urinary arsenic speciation via ion chromatography (IC)-ICP-MS. The retention characteristics of arsenobetaine (AsB), arsenite [As(III)], dimethylarsinic acid (DMA), monomethylarsonic acid (MMA), arsenate [As(V)] and Cl− were systematically evaluated with respect to column temperature and the (NH4)2CO3 eluent molarity using the DN method. This characterization indicated that three early eluters [AsB, As(III) and DMA] were best separated at a higher column temperature and lower eluent molarity, whereas MMA, As(V) and Cl− were best separated at a lower column temperature and higher eluent molarity. From these observations, a gradient elution program was developed using 40 and 70 mM (NH4)2CO3 (pH 10.5) at 60 °C. This gradient condition produced satisfactory resolution for all five arsenic species with a Cl− tolerance up to 0.3% w/w. In the membrane hydride generation (HG) configuration, a photo-reactor interface was installed between the column and the HG device to facilitate the detection of non-hydride active arsenic species. Isocratic elution using 40 mM (NH4)2CO3 was adequate in resolving all five arsenic species while the chloride interference was removed by a gas–liquid separator. NIST SRM 2670 Freeze-dried Urine was analyzed using the DN and HG methods and the sum of the arsenical concentrations was 77.7 ± 3.5 and 71.1 ± 2.8 ng mL−1, respectively.
Board effectiveness and board dissent: A model of the board's relationship to management and shareholders

Abstract To date, there has been little modeling of the board of directors as an independent entity in the corporate finance literature. Most theoretical papers omit the board entirely and model only managers and shareholders as active players. In this paper, I model the board as an entity distinct from both management and shareholders. The analysis is based on management's power in the selection and retention of board members and it focuses on the effect of this power on the frequency of open dissent in the boardroom and the board's effectiveness in disciplining management. The model predicts behavior consistent with empirical observation and produces testable implications about the links between board compensation, structure, and information and the frequency of board dissent and the level of board effectiveness.
Observations on "Anatomy of an R&R" and Other Reflections

The author recounts her experience serving as action editor for a three-person panel that was reviewing a paper submitted to the “Academy of Management Journal” for publication. As action editor it was her responsibility to apprise the paper's authors of the reviewers' critiques, which sometimes varied widely. As the manuscript was revised it sometimes became frustrating when reviewers held diverging opinions about the quality of the revisions. In the end, however, they did reach a consensus to publish the paper. Her advice to authors is to handle one's emotions constructively during the review process, and to try to see things from the editor's perspective.
Gene expression networks underlying retinoic acid-induced differentiation of human retinoblastoma cells.

METHODS. Weri-Rb-1 retinoblastoma cells were cultured in the absence or presence of RA for various periods. DNA microarray analysis profiled gene expression followed by real-time PCR and Northern and immunoblot analyses to confirm the change in expression of selected retinal genes and their gene products. Additional methodology included flow cytometry analysis, immunocytochemistry, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) assay. RESULTS. DNA microarray analysis of approximately 6800 genes revealed RA-induced upregulation of cone-specific genes and downregulation of rod-specific genes in Weri-Rb-1 cells. Other significantly upregulated mRNAs included chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter-transcription factor (COUP-TF1), retinoid X receptor (RXR)-, thyroid hormone receptor (TR)-2, and guanylyl cyclase-activating protein (GCAP)-1. Real-time PCR and/or Northern blot analysis confirmed the expression changes of a subset of genes including the upregulation of a pineal- and retina-specific transcription factor, CRX. RA treatment also led to G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and increased both the intensity of human cone arrestin (hCAR)-immunoreactivity and the number of apoptotic cells. The cell-cycle‐arrest stage correlated with the observed microarray results in which the RA treatment downregulated critical genes such as cyclins (cyclin E, cyclin D3) and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK5, CDK10).
Genomic influences on schizophrenia-related neurotransmitter systems.

Purpose: (a) to summarize genomic influences in schizophrenia, (b) to review the molecular genetic profile associated with schizophrenia, (c) to summarize the genetic factors affecting dopamine and serotonin neurotransmitter systems, and (d) to list nursing implications for this knowledge. Organizing Framework: Schizophrenia and schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, both clustered in families, arise from both genetic and environmental influences. Schizophrenia does not develop from a single genetic mutation but rather from many genetic alterations acting together. Conclusions: Studies focused on genetic polymorphisms of neurotransmitter systems pique nurses' interest because pharmacological interventions affecting those systems remain the primary approach to treatment. Atypical antipsychotics have in common the ability to antagonize dopaminergic and serotonergic receptors. This review includes the recent discoveries regarding genetic modifications affecting dopamine and serotonin neurotransmitter systems and their potential as a basis for treatment.
A Kolsky bar using a hollow incident tube

This paper presents a novel dynamic experimental technique by modifying a Kolsky tension bar. Pulse shaping has been developed in Kolsky compression bars in order to subject the specimen to the desired dynamic testing conditions. Pulse shaping methods in Kolsky tension bars are not as mature as compression techniques. Developing an apparatus that can utilize the better-understood compression pulse shaping methods is then advantageous. A modified Kolsky tension bar where a hollow incident tube is used to carry the incident stress waves has been developed. The incident tube also acts as a gas gun barrel that houses the striker for impact. The striker impacts on the end of the incident tube through compression pulse shapers that are attached to the end cap. In order to accommodate free travel of the striker pressure-release slots are added to the tube. The effect of discontinuities on a stress pulse and impedance mismatches are discussed. Preliminary data will be shown for the elastic region of a 4140 steel sample.
Transcatheter vascular occlusion of the small patent ductus arteriosus: an alternative method.

The current strategies concerning a small (≤2 mm) patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) include surgical ligation, transcatheter implantation of the Rashkind occluder device, or no intervention requiring indefinite endocarditis precautions. Five patients have undergone successful transcatheter closure of a small-caliber PDA utilizing a single 3 mm Gianturco occluder coil as an alternative to surgical ligation. The coil was delivered to traverse the narrowest dimension of the PDA, leaving loops of coil in both the pulmonary and aortic ends of the ductus. All PDAs were successfully occluded, and the duration of hospitalization for all patients was 1 day. At lates follow-up (11±2 months), echocardiography demonstrates complete ductus occlusion in all patients, with no obstruction to left pulmonary arterial or descending aortic flow. Transcatheter coil occlusion of the small ductus is an easily accomplished, safe, effective alternative to surgical ligation, thereby avoiding a lateral thoracotomy incision, shortening hospitalization, and reducting costs.
E 2 SRT: enhanced event-to-sink reliable transport for wireless sensor networks

An event-to-sink reliable transport (ESRT) control scheme was recently proposed to address the event-to-sink reliability issues in wireless sensor network (WSN). In this paper, we study the performance of ESRT in the presence of ‘over-demanding’ event reliability, using both the analytical and simulation approaches. We show that the ESRT protocol does not achieve optimum reliability and begins to fluctuate between two inefficient network states. With insights from update mechanism in ESRT, we propose a new algorithm, called enhanced ESRT (E2SRT), to solve the ‘over-demanding’ event reliability problem and to stabilize the network. Simulation results show that E2SRT outperforms ESRT in terms of both reliability and energy consumption in the presence of ‘over-demanding’ event reliability. Besides, it ensures robust convergence in the presence of dynamic network environments. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Memory for pain after nerve-block injections.

OBJECTIVE To examine the accuracy of memory for pain in patients with chronic pain after injection of a local anesthetic and to investigate psychological factors hypothesized to coincide with distortion of memory. DESIGN Consecutive patients receiving nerve-block injections recorded pain before the block, during the effect of the block, approximately 2 days after the block, and 2 weeks after the block. Memory for pain during the effect of the block was assessed 2 days and 2 weeks after the block for comparison with recorded pain ratings. SETTING Outpatient, multidisciplinary pain-treatment center of a university medical center. PATIENTS Forty-nine adult patients with chronic pain. INTERVENTIONS Local nerve-block injections resulted in a significant, temporary reduction in pain, thus allowing patients to rate, and later recall, intensity of reduced pain. OUTCOME MEASURES Subjective ratings of pain intensity (numeric rating scale) were compared with recalled pain intensity. Demographic variables and psychological self-report measures were administered at evaluation. RESULTS Memory distortions are commonplace and are more likely to involve recollection of higher pain levels than were reported at the time of the injection. Psychological self-report measures did not identify subjects who experienced distorted memory for pain relief. CONCLUSIONS An awareness of these distortions should lead health-care professionals to monitor and refer to patients' actual pain reports made during a treatment intervention rather than relying on patients' recall to gauge the efficacy of interventions. Memory distortions could influence avoidance behaviors implicated in the development of chronic pain by some theories.
CSF diazepam-binding inhibitor concentrations in panic disorder

Diazepam-binding inhibitor (DBI) is a neuropeptide that has been detected in the brain and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Previous studies have suggested the possible role of DBI as a potential endogenous anxiogenic ligand modulating GABAergic transmission at the benzodiazepine-GABA receptor complex. The measurement of DBI immunoreactivity (DBI-IR) in CSF of panic-disorder patients and normal controls was undertaken to assess whether there were differences in the CSF concentration of this peptide to assess possible relationships with other monoamines and peptides. Lumbar CSF was obtained from 18 panic patients (4 men, 14 women) and 9 controls (5 men, 4 women). As a group, no significant differences were found between panic patients' CSF concentration of DBI-IR (1.12 +/- 0.27 pmol/mL) and normal volunteers (1.23 +/- 0.27 pmol/mL). No gender differences were demonstrated. However, we did find a positive correlation between CSF levels of DBI and CSF corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) in our panic patients.
Does trading volume detect information content in earnings reconciliations of foreign firms

Abstract Currently, foreign firms trading securities on U.S. markets provide periodically a quantitative reconciliation of selected financial data consistent with U.S. GAAP (hereafter referred to as reconciled information) in Form 20-F. The SEC is examining whether users believe that this reconciliation process provides additional information above that provided by the foreign GAAP earning announcement and whether this incremental information enhances usefulness for market participants. We examine whether the reconciliation affects a primary indicator of information usefulness: the trading volume of capital markets participants. We use a regression model to examine the relation between a measure of abnormal trading volume and four firm-specific variables in the firm's information environment: similarities of accounting systems, analyst following, difference between reconciled earnings and foreign GAAP earnings, and dispersion of analysts’ expectations. We find a significant relation between abnormal volume and the reconciled earnings number and between abnormal volume and the dispersion of analysts forecasts. Our findings suggest that market participants may use the 20-F reconciliation in trading decisions.
The value of urine screening for glucose at each prenatal visit.

Objective: To determine whether chemical (dipstick) urinalysis for glucose at each prenatal visit predicts gestational outcomes such as gestational diabetes, abruptio placentae, preterm delivery, fetal heart rate abnormality, cesarean delivery for dystocia, fetal macrosomia, and shoulder dystocia. Methods: We retrospectively evaluated each of the 3217 women who were delivered at St. Joseph's Hospital between July 1, 1990, and September 1, 1993, and who had received all prenatal care at Marshfield Clinic. Study subjects had complete urinalyses at the first prenatal visit, blood glucose diabetes screening at 24–28 weeks, and dipstick urinalysis for glucose at each prenatal visit. Women were excluded because of preexisting diabetes, multiple gestation, glucosuria at the first prenatal visit, or failure to complete the recommended blood screening at 24–28 weeks. The remaining 2965 women were grouped according to whether their dipstick urine tests were positive for glucose. Then the two groups were compared with regard to relevant pregnancy outcomes. Results: Women with glucosuria in the first two trimesters had a significantly higher incidence of gestational diabetes (12.8 versus 2.9%, P = .003). For women without evidence of gestational diabetes, there were no clinically important differences in the measured pregnancy outcomes between the two groups. Conclusion: Routine dipstick urinalysis for glucose can identify gravidas at increased risk for gestational diabetes, possibly allowing certain women with gestational diabetes to be diagnosed earlier than 24–28 weeks. However, most glucosuria testing is performed after a patient has completed routine blood screening for gestational diabetes. This third-trimester testing is not predictive of any clinically important pregnancy outcome.
Enhancement of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte response in aged mice by a novel treatment with recombinant AdIL-12 and wild-type adenovirus in rapid succession.

A decrease in the expression of Th1 cytokines has been associated with age-related decrease in cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) function. We utilized an E1-deleted adenovirus (Ad) vector to deliver the murine interleukin-12 (IL-12) gene in order to enhance the antivirus CTL response. Wild-type (WT) Ad was administered 3 days after AdIL-12 treatment, when IL-12 production was at its peak and the anti-Ad antibody response had not yet begun to develop. Before receiving AdIL-12 treatment, aged (18 month old) mice exhibited a 58% decrease in the number of virus-specific CTLs, and a 30% decrease in in vivo CTL activity as compared to young (2 month old) mice. After AdIL-12 treatment, aged mice displayed a greater increase in IL-12 expression and endogenous production of interferon-γ than observed in young mice. When infected with WT Ad, these AdIL-12-treated aged mice exhibited an increased in vivo CTL response and an in vitro proliferative response that was similar to those in young mice. The frequencies of occurrence of Db-E1Bp+CD8+ T cells in the spleen, liver, and lung in aged mice were higher than the corresponding values in young mice. These results indicate that IL-12 treatment significantly promotes the virus-specific CTL response in aged mice and, more importantly, specifically targets the virally infected organs, such as the liver and lung, promoting enhanced CTL activity against the virus.
A Note on Fullerenes

Abstract The existence of fullerenes with any number of hexagons different from 1 is proven in a simple way.
Glucose Induces Insulin Release and a Rise in Cytosolic Calcium Concentration in a Transplantable Rat Insulinoma

An important role for calcium in the cellular events leading to insulin secretion is supported by many studies. However, simultaneous measurements of changes in intracellular free Ca2+ concentrations [( Ca2+]i) and insulin release in response to secretagogues have not been performed. Using cells isolated from a glucose-responsive insulinoma, changes in [Ca2+]i were measured with the fluorescent calcium probe quin2. With the nutrient secretagogues glucose (30 mM) and D,L-glyceraldehyde (GA; 20 mM), [Ca2+]i increased slowly, reaching a peak approximately 15 min after addition of the stimulus, while KCl (25 mM) and carbachol (2 mM) led to a rapid but transient increase in [Ca2+]i. Glucose increased [Ca2+]i from 104 +/- 6 (mean +/- SEM) to 248 +/- 31 mM (n = 13), and GA caused a rise in [Ca2+]i from 96 +/- 6 to 280 +/- 39 nM (n = 4). KCl and carbachol caused a rise from 107 +/- 6 to 184 +/- 5 nM and from 98 +/- 5 to 157 +/- 5 nM, respectively (n = 5 each). When insulin release was measured simultaneously with changes in [Ca2+]i and compared to unstimulated cells, the following results were obtained. During the first 5 min of stimulation, high glucose caused a 90 +/- 12% increase in insulin release and a 72 +/- 11% rise in [Ca2+]i (n = 5). GA evoked a 122 +/- 30% increase in insulin secretion, with a 82 +/- 17% rise in [Ca2+]i (n = 3). Both KCl and carbachol caused a 58 +/- 9% increase in insulin release, with 7 +/- 4% and 50 +/- 2% rises in [Ca2+]i, respectively (n = 4 each). Insulin release was also measured in a perifusion system. It was shown that glucose (30 mM), GA (20 mM), and alpha-ketoisocaproate (30 mM) caused a biphasic release of insulin, while KCl (25 mM) and carbachol (2 mM) caused a monophasic release. The results show that [Ca2+]i increases during the stimulation of insulin secretion when measured simultaneously on the same beta-cells. However, while these changes coincide, a simple direct quantitative relationship between insulin release and the rise in [Ca2+]i could not be demonstrated.
Aqueous photolysis of niclosamide

The photodegradation of [14C]niclosamide was studied in sterile, pH 5, 7, and 9 buffered aqueous solutions under artificial sunlight at 25.0 ± 1.0 °C. Photolysis in pH 5 buffer is 4.3 times faster than in pH 9 buffer and 1.5 times faster than in pH 7 buffer. In the dark controls, niclosamide degraded only in the pH 5 buffer. After 360 h of continuous irradiation in pH 9 buffer, the chromatographic pattern of the degradates was the same regardless of which ring contained the radiolabel. An HPLC method was developed that confirmed these degradates to be carbon dioxide and two- and four-carbon aliphatic acids formed by cleavage of both aromatic rings. Carbon dioxide was the major degradate, comprising ∼40% of the initial radioactivity in the 360 h samples from both labels. The other degradates formed were oxalic acid, maleic acid, glyoxylic acid, and glyoxal. In addition, in the chloronitroaniline-labeled irradiated test solution, 2-chloro-4-nitroaniline was observed and identified after 48 h of irradiation ...
Modeling the diet of humpback whales: An approach using stable carbon and nitrogen isotopes in a Bayesian mixing model

Humpback whales are considered generalist predators, feeding on schooling fish, and zooplankton, but variability likely exists among regional feeding aggregations. We explored the diet of one feeding aggregation of humpback whales near Kodiak Island, Alaska, through analysis of the stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope ratios of their skin and regional prey sources. Humpback whales were sampled during the summer feeding season over 3 yr (n= 93; 2004–2006). Prey samples were collected from the same region during trawl surveys conducted between 2003 and 2005. Isotope values of humpback whale skin and prey were entered into a Bayesian dietary mixing model to estimate feasible contributions of prey to humpback diets. Diet results indicated that humpbacks feed heavily on euphausiids, but also consume juvenile walleye pollock, capelin, and Pacific sand lance. The diet of humpback whales in 2004 was the most diverse, while diets in 2005 and 2006 showed a higher proportion of euphausiids. Our results reveal annual differences in humpback diets from the Kodiak region due to either individual prey preferences or prey availability. Application of a Bayesian mixing model to stable isotope analysis improves description of regional diets and comparison of these diets to resource availability and quality.
Occupational Risk of Exposure to Rodent-borne Hantavirus at US Forest Service Facilities in California

Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS) is a frequently fatal viral disease transmitted through rodent secretions and excretions. Working around deer mice can increase risk of infection. This study assessed potential risk of HCPS at facilities occupied by the US Forest Service (USFS) in California. In 2004-2005, 18 USFS facilities in eight National Forests in California were evaluated for evidence of rodent infestation and circulation of hantavirus. Structural deficiencies and evidence of rodent infestation were observed at 18 facilities. Serum antibodies to hantavirus were detected in 50 of 255 deer mice collected from 15 facilities. Seroprevalence was higher at elevations > 1,600 m (22%). Employees at 14 facilities had received training in rodent-borne disease prevention. Risk of HCPS among USFS employees should motivate inclusion of disease prevention information into employee safety training.
Reduced stability of mRNA secondary structure near the translation- initiation site in dsDNA viruses

Recent studies have demonstrated a selection pressure for reduced mRNA secondary-structure stability near the start codon of coding sequences. This selection pressure can be observed in bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes, and is likely caused by the requirement of efficient translation initiation in cellular organism. Here, we surveyed the complete genomes of 650 dsDNA virus strains for signals of reduced stability of mRNA secondary structure near the start codon. Our analysis included viruses infecting eukaryotic, prokaryotic, and archaeic hosts. We found that many viruses showed evidence for reduced mRNA secondary-structure stability near the start codon. The effect was most pronounced in viruses infecting prokaryotes, but was also observed in viruses infecting eukaryotes and archaea. The reduction in stability generally increased with increasing genomic GC content. For bacteriophage, the reduction was correlated with a corresponding reduction of stability in the phage hosts. We conclude that reduced stability of the mRNA secondary structure near the start codon is a common feature for dsDNA viruses, likely driven by the same selective pressures that cause it in cellular organisms.
Compensatory lengthening and structure preservation revisited

In de Chene & Anderson's (1979) article on compensatory lengthening, the authors make two strong claims as to the universal nature of compensatory lengthening. These claims are: (i) that compensatory lengthening occurs in two stages, involving the weakening of a consonant to a glide and the subsequent merger of the resulting diphthong; and (ii) that compensatory lengthening can only occur when there is a pre-existing vowel-length contrast in the language in question.Both of these claims have received considerable attention in the literature. The first claim has never gained widespread acceptance, and has been challenged in several studies. Challenges have come from, for example, Hock (1986), Poser (1986), Sezer (1986) and more recently Gildea (1995). Each of these scholars provides a strong case against the view that compensatory lengthening is always decomposable into two distinct stages. The ensemble of their arguments renders this claim simply untenable.
COMBINED USE OF SILICA FUME AND METHYLCELLULOSE AS ADMIXTURES IN CONCRETE FOR INCREASING THE BOND STRENGTH BETWEEN CONCRETE AND STEEL REBAR

Abstract The combined use of silica fume (15% by weight of cement) and methylcellulose (0.4% by weight of cement) as admixtures was found to give concrete that exhibited high bond strength to steel rebar, in addition to previously reported high tensile modulus, tensile ductility, flexural strength, and flexural toughness. The bond strength attained was essentially the same as that attained by using latex (20% by weight of cement) as admixture. The bond strength attained was higher than that attained by using either silica fume or methylcellulose as admixture. Latex in combination with silica fume did not work, due to low workability. Methylcellulose in combination with silica fume was effective, due to silica fume’s increasing of the matrix modulus and methylcellulose’s promotion of adhesion.