cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
On the problem of whether mass or chemical bonding is more important to bombardment-induced compositional changes in alloys and oxides

Abstract The bombardment of alloys, oxides, and halides often leads to marked compositional changes at the surface, and these changes have been attributed to an interplay of mass-dependent effects, chemical bonding, electronic processes, and diffusion. We attempt here to answer the limited question of whether, considering only alloys and oxides, mass or bonding is normally more important. The relevant theory is reviewed and extended, with mass effects being shown to be associated most explicitly with recoil sputtering and bonding effects being shown to be associated with all three of cascade sputtering, thermal sputtering, and surface segregation. As far as experimental examples are concerned, mass correlations are found to be quite unsuccessful, whereas most observations can be understood rather well in terms of bonding. Nevertheless, there is a basic problem in that the cascade component of sputtering, normally judged to be predominant, should give significantly less compositional change than is observed. Thermal sputtering would lead to more significant changes, but there is a new problem that, at least with alloys, the absolute yields are probably rather small. A combination of surface segregation with sputtering would also lead to more significant changes, but it is unclear whether segregation is rapid enough to be important in room-temperature bombardments.
Revenue impacts of fare input and demand forecast accuracy in airline yield management

Most airline yield management seat allocation models require inputs of the expected demand by fare class, the variance of this demand, and a revenue value associated with the bookings expected in each class. In this paper, we examine the impacts of errors in the demand forecasts and fare estimates on the revenue performance of some commonly used seat allocation heuristic decision rules. Through simulation analysis of scenarios in which the fare or demand inputs used by the models differ from the ‘actual’ values simulated in the flight booking process, we examine the effects of unexpected variability in the actual fare values, misestimation of the mean fare values of the different booking classes, and forecasting errors in the expected demand for each class. Our findings confirm previous studies that found the accuracy of the demand forecasts to be of greatest importance, but we also uncover some instances where misestimation of the mean demands and/or mean fare values used as inputs to the decision models can actually be beneficial. At the same time, we conclude that the variability of actual fare values around the mean fare values used as inputs does not have a significant impact, given the mathematical characteristics of existing EMSR seat allocation methods.
Dynamic interactors in multivariable process control—I. The general time delay case

Abstract The interactor matrix is shown to be a useful tool for multivariable controller design. In this paper (part I) the case where noninvertibility of the plant is solely due to time delays is treated. (In part II the above restriction will be relaxed.) First, the interactor is used to classify multiinput-multioutput processes according to their delay structure. Subsequently, all admissible controllers are parametrized via the system's interactor matrix and it is shown that a scaled inverse interactor is the optimal closed loop transfer matrix for various performance measures. The best possible decoupling controller is also derived using the interactor. Finally, in a heat exchanger network application, it is shown that the present work can also be used for selecting manipulated variables.
Nicolaus of Autrecourt and Ghazālī's Argument against Causality

IN his refu-tation of an argument for causality based upon the observation of the burning of flax (stuppa) on its contact with fire, which was advanced by Bernard of Arezzo,1 Nicolaus of Autrecourt argues as follows: "This consequence, namely, 'fire is close to flax and there is no impediment, hence the flax will be consumed,' is not evident by an evidence deduced from the first principle."2 This refutation of the argument, it has been rightly suggested, is similar to Ghazali's refutation of those whom he calls philosophers and to whom he ascribes the view that fire is the real cause of combustion.3 The question, however, has been raised as to whether Ghazali's refutation could have been known to Nicolaus, for the only known source from which he could have learned of that refutation is the 1328 Latin translation of Averroes' Tahuafut al-Tahdfut (Destructio Destructionis), which embodies Ghazali's Tahafut al-Falbsifah (Destructio Philosophorum), but the date of that translation is too close to 1327, the year in which Nicolaus began to lecture at the University of Paris, though it is to be admitted that he could have subsequently obtained knowledge of Ghazali's refutation "from this source had he read it."4 Addressing myself solely to the question whether GhazMli's refutation was known to Niclolaus, I shall try to show two things: (1) that a knowledge of Ghazali's Tahafut al-Falasifah was somehow available to Latin Schoolmen long before the Latin translation of Averroes' Tahafut al-Tahafut in 1328; (2) that the example of the burning of flax mentioned by Bernard in his argument for causality and by Ghazali in his refutation of the argument is based upon passages in Ghazali's Tahafut al-Faldsifah. (1) That a knowledge of Ghazali's Tahaifut al-Faldsifah had been available to the Schoolmen long before the 1328 Latin translation of Averroes' Tahcifut alTahafut can be shown by a passage in Albertus Magnus's Commentary on Aristotle's Physics. In that Commentary, Albertus reproduces seven arguments used by those who believe in the eternity of the world, of which he says that they have been collected by Maimonides (a Moyse Aegyptio Judaeorum Philosopho) from various places in the works of Aristotle' and from other works.6 Against the fourth of these arguments Maimonides quotes tentatively a refutation, of which the Latin translation as known to Albertus would read in English as follows: "One, however, of the intelligent latest Mutakalliman said that he had solved
Younger age is associated with lower reactive hyperemic index but not lower flow-mediated dilation among children and adolescents.

Background The use of digital reactive hyperemia as a measure of endothelial function among children and adolescents is becoming increasingly common. However, unexpected observations of low reactive hyperemic index values in younger children in our laboratory led us to conduct a study evaluating the influence of age, sex, height, weight, blood pressure, body mass index (BMI), and finger volume on RHI values.
Defect chemistry of phospho-olivine nanoparticles synthesized by a microwave-assisted solvothermal process

Abstract Nanocrystalline LiFePO 4 powders synthesized by a microwave-assisted solvothermal (MW-ST) process have been structurally characterized with a combination of high resolution powder neutron diffraction, synchrotron X-ray diffraction, and aberration-corrected HAADF STEM imaging. A significant level of defects has been found in the samples prepared at 255 and 275 °C. These temperatures are significantly higher than what has previously been suggested to be the maximum temperature for defect formation in LiFePO 4 , so the presence of defects is likely related to the rapid MW-ST synthesis involving a short reaction time (∼5 min). A defect model has been tentatively proposed, though it has been shown that powder diffraction data alone cannot conclusively determine the precise defect distribution in LiFePO 4 samples. The model is consistent with other literature reports on nanopowders synthesized at low temperatures, in which the unit cell volume is significantly reduced relative to defect-free, micron-sized LiFePO 4 powders.
MITOSIS AND INTERMEDIATE-SIZED FILAMENTS IN DEVELOPING SKELETAL MUSCLE

A new class of filaments intermediate in diameter between actin and myosin filaments has been demonstrated in skeletal muscle cells cultured from chick embryos. These filaments, which account for the majority of free filaments, average 100 A in diameter. They may run for more than 2 µ in a single section and can be distinguished in size and appearance from the thick and thin filaments assembled into myofibrils. The 100-A filaments are seen scattered throughout the sarcoplasm at all stages of development and show no obvious association with the myofibrils. The 100-A filaments are particularly conspicuous in myotubes fragmented by the mitotic inhibitors, colchicine and Colcemid. In addition, filaments similar in size and appearance to those found in myotubes are present in fibroblasts, chondrocytes, and proliferating mononucleated myoblasts. The 100-A filaments are present in cells arrested in metaphase by mitotic inhibitors. Definitive thick (about 150 A) or thin (about 60 A) myofilaments are not found in skeletal myogenic cells arrested in metaphase. Myogenic cells arrested in metaphase do not bind fluorescein-labeled antibody directed against myosin or actin. For these reasons, it is concluded that not all "thin" filaments in myogenic cells are uniquely associated with myogenesis.
Filling in the Blanks: A New Method for Estimating Campaign Effects

Scholars have invested a great deal of effort in trying to estimate the impact of political campaigns on the public. While progress has been made, one fundamental problem continues to plague our attempts to study campaigns: the lack of good, detailed data about the behaviour of candidates. In the United States, for instance, the presidential battle is a national struggle that unfolds locally on the stages of fifty states, yet most data collection efforts have treated presidential elections as if they were national contests, conducted (implicitly) in an identical manner across the entire country. Using available (national) data as a baseline and theory to predict plausible variations from that baseline, the authors devise a method for simulating variation in presidential campaigns across states and over election years—one of the crucial missing pieces of the puzzle. Their method generates a range of plausible effects, which is often narrow enough to shed light on important hypotheses. It can be employed whenever data are available at a more aggregate level than is desirable. This method is then applied to assess the debate over the impact of attack advertising on turnout. This approach suggests that campaign negativism stimulated (rather than demobilized) turnout in presidential elections from 1980 through 2000.
What's in a Name? RPGR Mutations Redefine the Genetic and Phenotypic Landscape in Retinal Degenerative Diseases

The boundaries of once-distinct clinical entities have become blurry within the broad category of retinal and macular dystrophies as mutations in one gene can lead to diverse manifestations. In addition, individuals carrying an identical mutation, even within a family, may present an array of phenotypes. While we are still struggling to correlate clinical heterogeneity to specific mutations/ variants in identified genes, genetic studies are beginning to unravel yet another level of complexity. X-linked forms of retinitis pigmentosa (XLRP) are relatively severe with clinical, genetic, and even allelic heterogeneity. Mutations in the retinitis pigmentosa guanosine triphosphatase regulator (RPGR) gene account for over 70% of XLRP and are even reported in patients with divergent retinal degenerative diseases, including cone dystrophies and macular degeneration. 1 RPGR and its interacting proteins in the cilium have been associated with photoreceptor dysfunction/death in many syndromic diseases. 2 A recent study identified RPGR mutations in a considerable proportion of males (29 of 214 examined) with simplex retinal degeneration phenotypes. 3 Mutations in another XLRP gene, RP2, were detected in three other patients. In this issue, Churchill et al. 4 provide another twist to the RPGR saga by examining a cohort of 258 families that were initially categorized as autosomal dominant RP (adRP) based on the pedigree analysis. Of these, 95 families did not carry mutations in known adRP genes. These authors screened 56 of the 95 families that did not show male-to-male transmission. Interestingly, 20 families had mutations in RPGR and two others in RP2. Not unexpectedly, 12 of the 20 RPGR mutations were found in the ORF15 exon. Thus, RPGR mutations accounted for one-third of the families after known adRP genes had been excluded, and represented almost 8% of the adRP cohort being investigated by Churchill et al., second only to rhodopsin and equal to PRPF31 and PRPH2 (RDS). 5 These findings have significant clinical implications as RPGR now occupies a prominent causative role in inherited retinopathies, exhibiting divergent clinical phenotypes and genetic spectrum. Though clinical manifestations of the RPGR disease are primarily limited to the retina, it is tempting to hypothesize that common RPGR variants may modify the function of interacting proteins 3 and generate phenotypic heterogeneity. When providing genetic diagnosis and counseling to patients with retinal dystrophies, RPGR screening should therefore receive serious consideration, both for identifying the primary defect and as a phenotypic modifier. Fortunately, gene-based therapy of RPGR disease is on the horizon. 6
Staging of renal cell carcinoma: cost effectiveness of routine preoperative bone scans

Abstract The use of bone scans in the evaluation of renal cell carcinoma has become routine in many centers. In a retrospective analysis of 42 patients undergoing radical nephrectomy for renal cell carcinoma, we analyzed the cost-effectiveness of routine preoperative bone scans. Although these scans accurately predict metastatic disease to bone, they are not cost-effective as a routine preoperative tool because they do not ,alter outcome. In selected patients with bone pain and no other positive staging studies, preoperative bone scans may be of value in the decision to perform extirpative surgery.
Acute Onset Headache and Left Eye Swelling

A 21-year-old male search and rescue swimmer presented with a 1-day history of acute onset headache and left eye swelling. He denied any trauma but reported blowing his nose in the shower prior to the onset. The patient reported 2 similar headache episodes without eye swelling 3 months prior. The first was also triggered by blowing his nose, and the second occurred while exercising. Both previous headaches resolved over 2 days and were associated with a self-described audible “water trickling” sound in the left side of his head. The patient denied any weakness, paresthesias, or alteredmental status. On examination, the patient was neurologically intact. He had marked periorbital edema with associated crepitus. His ophthalmologic examination was grossly unremarkable except for diplopia during right lateral gaze. Noncontrast computed tomographic (CT) imaging of the sinuses showed a 1.8 × 1.2 × 2.3-cm, well-delineated, hyperdense lesion centered within the left anterior ethmoid air cells that partially protruded into the medial orbit without significant mass effect on the medial rectus or globe (Figure, A). An extensive left-sided pneumocephalus was identified with possible dehiscences in the posterior margin of the frontal sinus, lamina papyracea, and/or cribiform plate (Figure, B and C). What is your diagnosis? A
Ultra-low-κ materials derived from poly(D,L-lactide-b-pentafluorostyrene) diblock copolymers

Well-defined diblock copolymers of D,L-lactide and pentafluorostyrene with narrow molecular weight distributions (polydispersity index <1.25) were successfully synthesized via sequential ring-opening and atom transfer radical polymerizations. Poly(D,L-lactide) is the minority component; microphase separation results in discrete poly(D,L-lactide) nanostructures organized in a polypentafluorostyrene matrix. The poly(D,L-lactide) block was then quantitatively degraded and removed via acid-catalyzed hydrolysis to yield a nanoporous fluorinated matrix with the same lattice dimensions as those of the parent diblock copolymer. These nanoporous fluorinated films have overall dielectric constants <2.0, making them suitable candidates as interlayer metal insulators in microelectronic applications. Further, the dielectric constants of these films can be tuned by adjusting the amount of poly(D,L-lactide) in the parent diblock copolymers during synthesis.
Trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms Predict Alcohol and Other Drug Consequence Trajectories in the First Year of College

Objective: College matriculation begins a period of transition into adulthood, one that is marked by new freedoms and responsibilities. This transition also is marked by an escalation in heavy drinking and other drug use as well as a variety of use-related negative consequences. Trauma and symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may affect alcohol and drug problems and, thus, may be a point of intervention. Yet, no studies have examined trauma, PTSD, and alcohol and drug problem associations during this developmental period. The present study provides such an examination. Method: Matriculating college students (N = 997) completed surveys in September (Time 1) and at 5 subsequent time points (Time 2-Time 6) over their 1st year of college. With latent growth analysis, trajectories of alcohol- and drug-related consequences were modeled to examine how trauma (No Criterion A Trauma, Criterion A Only, No PTSD Symptoms) and PTSD (partial or full) symptom status predicted these trajectories. Results: Results showed substantial risk for alcohol- and other drug-related negative consequences that is conferred by the presence of PTSD at matriculation. Those with both partial and full PTSD started the year with more alcohol and drug consequences. These individuals showed a steeper decrease in consequences in the 1st semester, which leveled off as the year progressed. Both alcohol and drug consequences remained higher for those in the PTSD group throughout the academic year. Hyperarousal symptoms showed unique effects on substance consequence trajectories. Risk patterns were consistent for both partial and full PTSD symptom presentations. Trajectories did not vary by gender. Conclusions: Interventions that offer support and resources to students entering college with PTSD may help to ameliorate problem substance use and may ultimately facilitate a stronger transition into college and beyond. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved). Language: en
MicrobesFlux: a web platform for drafting metabolic models from the KEGG database

Concurrent with the efforts currently underway in mapping microbial genomes using high-throughput sequencing methods, systems biologists are building metabolic models to characterize and predict cell metabolisms. One of the key steps in building a metabolic model is using multiple databases to collect and assemble essential information about genome-annotations and the architecture of the metabolic network for a specific organism. To speed up metabolic model development for a large number of microorganisms, we need a user-friendly platform to construct metabolic networks and to perform constraint-based flux balance analysis based on genome databases and experimental results. We have developed a semi-automatic, web-based platform (MicrobesFlux) for generating and reconstructing metabolic models for annotated microorganisms. MicrobesFlux is able to automatically download the metabolic network (including enzymatic reactions and metabolites) of ~1,200 species from the KEGG database (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) and then convert it to a metabolic model draft. The platform also provides diverse customized tools, such as gene knockouts and the introduction of heterologous pathways, for users to reconstruct the model network. The reconstructed metabolic network can be formulated to a constraint-based flux model to predict and analyze the carbon fluxes in microbial metabolisms. The simulation results can be exported in the SBML format (The Systems Biology Markup Language). Furthermore, we also demonstrated the platform functionalities by developing an FBA model (including 229 reactions) for a recent annotated bioethanol producer, Thermoanaerobacter sp. strain X514, to predict its biomass growth and ethanol production. MicrobesFlux is an installation-free and open-source platform that enables biologists without prior programming knowledge to develop metabolic models for annotated microorganisms in the KEGG database. Our system facilitates users to reconstruct metabolic networks of organisms based on experimental information. Through human-computer interaction, MicrobesFlux provides users with reasonable predictions of microbial metabolism via flux balance analysis. This prototype platform can be a springboard for advanced and broad-scope modeling of complex biological systems by integrating other “omics” data or 13 C- metabolic flux analysis results. MicrobesFlux is available at http://tanglab.engineering.wustl.edu/static/MicrobesFlux.html and will be continuously improved based on feedback from users.
Polarization Diversity And Scrambling Techniques For Coherent Systems

In this paper, we review polarization-diversity and polarization scrambling techniques and also include recent progress in these areas. The advantages and disadvantages of these techniques and several experimental and theoretical results reported to date are also discussed.
The Next Generation of X-ray Sources

We discuss recent results on soft and hard X-ray free electron lasers (FELs) and how they can be used to design and optimize the next generation of these sources of high brightness, coherent photons, with femtosecond pulse duration, or very narrow linewidth. In particular, we consider the experimental and theoretical progress in the electron beam generation and manipulation. These results, when combined with the successful development of powerful simulation codes, can be used to design optimized, high intensity sources of coherent photons, and to reduce their size and cost.
Variation at the mu-opioid receptor gene (OPRM1) influences attachment behavior in infant primates

In a variety of species, development of attachment to a caregiver is crucial for infant survival and partly mediated by the endogenous opioids. Functional mu-opioid receptor gene polymorphisms are present in humans (OPRM1 A118G) and rhesus macaques (OPRM1 C77G). We hypothesized that rhesus infants carrying a gain-of-function OPRM1 77G allele would experience increased reward during maternal contact and would, therefore, display increased measures of attachment. We collected behavioral data from rhesus macaques (n = 97) during early infancy and at 6 months of age, across four cycles of maternal separation (4 days) and reunion (3 days). Animals were genotyped for the OPRM1 C77G polymorphism, and the effects of this allele on attachment-related behaviors were analyzed. Infants carrying the G allele exhibited higher levels of attachment behavior during early infancy. During prolonged periods of maternal separation, although infant macaques homozygous for the C allele exhibited decreases in their levels of distress vocalization with repeated separation, this response persisted in G allele carriers. The OPRM1 77G allele also affected social preference during reunion. C/G infants spent increasing amounts of time in social contact with their mothers as a function of repeated separation and were less likely to interact with other individuals in the social group, a pattern not observed among infants with the C/C genotype. These findings suggest a role for OPRM1 variation in the expression of attachment behavior in human subjects, especially as a function of separation from the caregiver.
Phosphorylation-Dependent Perturbations of the 4.1R-Associated Multiprotein Complex of the Erythrocyte Membrane

The bulk of the red blood cell membrane proteins are partitioned between two multiprotein complexes, one associated with ankyrin R and the other with protein 4.1R. Here we examine the effect of pho...
Characteristics of controllable adhesion using magneto-rheological fluid and its application to climbing robotics

In order to grasp and hold uneven or dusty objects, a robust adhesion mechanism is required. This paper evaluates controllable adhesion using magneto-rheological fluid (MRF) as a technique to stick to non-magnetic materials and rough/dusty surfaces. This technique is both simple to use and robust to uncertain surface conditions, as it involves applying MRF on a surface and activating it with a magnetic field. In this paper, we experimentally evaluate yield stresses in both normal and shear directions with respect to MRF layer thickness, magnetic flux density and surface type. Based on these results, a four-legged climbing robot is designed to demonstrate scaling vertical walls and shows effectiveness of the controllable adhesion using MRF for rough surface.
An ecology-based analysis of irreversible biofouling in membrane bioreactors

To provide the first step towards a microbial ecology-based understanding of irreversible membrane biofouling, four laboratory-scale membrane bioreactors (MBRs) were operated to investigate the identity of bacterial populations highly correlated with irreversible membrane biofouling. The conventional MBR was divided into two separate experimental units. Unit one consisted of four suspended-growth, activated sludge, sequencing batch bioreactors treating a synthetic paper mill wastewater. Unit two consisted of a microfiltration membrane cell. Amplified ribosomal deoxyribonucleic acid restriction analysis (ARDRA) was used to compare the predominant bacterial populations in samples of mixed liquor and irreversibly bound to the membrane surface. The results of ARDRA showed a significant difference between the planktonic and sessile bacterial communities suggesting that irreversible biofouling of microfiltration membranes may be more highly correlated to specific bacterial populations rather than the total, bulk concentration of biomass. A custom-built mini-flow cell and light microscopy were used to visualise the early formation of biofilms by two pure cultures ( Escherichia coli and Acinetobacter calcoaceticus ) on membrane surfaces. The results confirmed that A. calcoaceticus was able to enhance the initiation of biofilm formation on microfiltration membranes.
Multiple forms and inhibitors of uridine-cytidine kinase in neoplastic cells.

Abstract 1. 1. Two forms (isozymes) of uridine (urd)-cytidine (cyd) kinase are present in the 30–50% ammonium sulfate fraction of the cytosols of L1210 ascites leukemia cells and a human malignant lymphoma. 2. 2. These findings confirm those which described multiple forms of urd-cyd kinase in tumors with rapid growth rate. 3. 3. Studies of inhibitors (nucleoside analogs) of urd-cyd kinase derived from L1210 and 6410 leukemia cells resulted in the finding of four possible inhibitors of this enzyme.
Chemistry and stability of precipitates from aqueous solutions of 2,4,6-trimercaptotriazine, trisodium salt, nonahydrate (TMT-55) and mercury (II) chloride

Abstract 2,4,6-trimercaptotriazine, trisodium salt, nonahydrate (TMT-55) is a planar C3 symmetric compound that is used commercially to precipitate mercury and other heavy metals from waste waters and contaminated natural waters. A series of laboratory experiments and analyses were performed to evaluate the chemistry and stability of mercury trimercaptotriazine “Hg-TMT” precipitates that result from the addition of aqueous solutions of TMT-55 to aqueous solutions of mercury(II) chloride (HgCl2). Several Hg-TMT species exist, most of which were previously unrecognized. The leaching properties, chemistry and long-term stability of the solids are very diverse. As examples, the white and yellow varieties of Hg-TMT are often unstable in both water and air, and may release more than 6000 μg/l of mercury into distilled and deionized water leachates. Although waste waters and contaminated ground waters are likely to contain less mercury than the HgCl2 solutions used in this study, individuals should recognize that any Hg-TMT compounds are likely to be chemically complex and perhaps unstable under aqueous or atmospheric conditions.
A comparison of foliage use and tree height selection by birds in unlogged and logged mixed-coniferous forest

Abstract Tree height selection and use of the available foliage by birds were examined in two mixed-coniferous forests in the White Mountains, Arizona, USA, during 1973 and 1974. A comparison of avian habitat use between a natural forest and one which had recently undergone a moderately heavy overstory removal form of timber harvesting, revealed that in both areas tall and moderately tall trees were preferred. Comparisons were made for the composite avian community and, in particular, for the yellow-bellied sapsucker Sphyrapicus varius , mountain chickadee Parus gambeli , ruby-crowned kinglet Regulus calendula , yellow-rumped warbler Dendroica coronata , and dark-eyed (= grey-headed) junco Junco hyemalis caniceps . Taller trees provided substantially more foliage and substrate for nesting and foraging than did shorter ones. Foliage use by birds in the unharvested plot suggested that foliage was being used in approximately the proportion in which it was available. This was not true in the modified plot where quaking aspen Populus tremuloides —the only tree species not logged—comprised 53·1% of the total available foliage volume. The biggest discrepancy between bird use and foliage volume occurred between 9 and 21 m from the ground. Within this height interval aspen represented 63·8% of the total volume. The subsequently derived bird use curve reflected the reduced desirability of aspen for most avian species.
Dietary protein and beef consumption predict for markers of muscle mass and nutrition status in older adults.

Objective To determine the relationship of beef and protein intake to nutrition status, body composition, strength, and biochemical measures of vitamin and mineral status, inflammation and blood lipids in older adults.
Models for Genetic Analysis of Dystocia and Calf Mortality

Calvings of 106,750 Israeli Holstein heifers were analyzed for dystocia and calf mortality, which were scored dichotomously. Models fitted included herd-year-season, sex of calf, calving age, calving month, sire of cow, sire of calf, and groups of sire of cow and calf. Herd-year-season, sire of cow and of calf, and residuals were random with diagonal variance-covariance matrices. Traits were analyzed with and without a herd-year-season effect, and dystocia was analyzed separately for male and female calvings and with both sexes combined. Variance components were estimated by REML for linear models and by the counterpart of REML for threshold models. Heritability estimates were two to four times larger in threshold than in linear models, but correlations between corresponding sire evaluations were all greater than .9. Correlations between evaluations computed with and without herd-year-season effects were .9 for sire of calf evaluations for dystocia and greater than .97 for all other evaluations. Correlations between sire evaluations computed separately for male and female calvings were between .3 and .7. Thus, calving difficulty is expressed differently in male and female calvings. Genetic trends were unfavorable for dystocia but favorable for calf mortality. Phenotypic trends were curvilinear with maxima in 1982 and 1983 for calf mortality and dystocia.
Early Identification of Hearing Loss: Listen to Parents

Families of 49 hearing-impaired children responded to a questionnaire requesting information about the identification of their child's hearing loss. Parents were the first to suspect the hearing loss in 48 cases but more often than not were told that the child would outgrow it or was too young to test. When professionals agreed with the parents and attended to their concerns, confirmation of the hearing loss occurred significantly more rapidly than when they disagreed with parents and ignored their concerns. A child whose hearing loss is not clearly identified and whose communication is inadequate or nonexistent, causes frustration and stress within the family and prevents the child from receiving the maximum benefit from early language input and amplification. It would benefit both the child and family if professionals would listen to parental concerns regarding their child and assist in the early identification process.
Topography of nucleic acid helices in solutions. III. Interactions of spermine and spermidine derivatives with polyadenylic–polyuridylic and polyinosinic–polycytidylic acid helices

The synthesis of spermine derivatives (II), , and spermidine derivatives (III), , are reported. The effects of these salts on the helix–coil transition of rA–rU and rI–rC helices were examined. Increasing the size of the hydrophobic substituents, R1, R2, and R3 lowers the degree of stabilization of the helical structure. The disproportionation reaction, 2rA–rUrA–rU2 + rA occurs readily with salts II and III, especially when the substituents, R1, R2, and R3 are small, i.e., H or Me. Spermine is found to stabilize the rA–rU2 and rI–rC helices to approximately the same extent; however, large differences between the degree of stabilization of rA–rU2 and rI-rC helices are observed when the substituents R1, R2, and R3 are large hydrophobic groups. Similar results are also obtained for the spermidine series. Finally, differences in the interactions of the salts II and III with rA–rU2 and rI–rC helices suggest that the latter helix is denser.
Stratigraphic Continuity in 400 Mhz Short-Pulse Radar Profiles of Firn in West Antarctica

We track dated firn horizons within 400 MHz short-pulse radar profiles to find the continuous extent over which they can be used as historical benchmarks to study past accumulation rates in West Antarctica. The 30–40cm pulse resolution compares with the accumulation rates of most areas. We tracked a particular set that varied from 30 to 90 m in depth over a distance of 600 km. The main limitations to continuity are fading at depth, pinching associated with accumulation rate differences within hills and valleys, and artificial fading caused by stacking along dips. The latter two may be overcome through multi-kilometer distances by matching the relative amplitude and spacing of several close horizons, along with their pulse forms and phases. Modeling of reflections from thin layers suggests that the – 37 to – 50 dB range of reflectivity and the pulse waveforms we observed are caused by the numerous thin ice layers observed in core stratigraphy. Constructive interference between reflections from these close, high-density layers can explain the maintenance of reflective strength throughout the depth of the firn despite the effects of compaction. The continuity suggests that these layers formed throughout West Antarctica and possibly into East Antarctica as well.
Properties and devices of SiGe heterostructures and superlattices

Several successful techniques for growth of pseudomorphic strained Ge/sub x/Si/sub 1-x/ layers on Si are briefly reviewed. The properties of the strained layers that affect the device design and performance are discussed. Devices based on the material are also discussed, with emphasis on heterojunction bipolar transistors (HBTs). High gain and high cutoff frequency has been predicted. Other advances, including the demonstration of tunneling structures, quantum well structures, and devices based on band-aligned superlattices, are presented. The growth of monolayer Ge/sub m/Si/sub n/ superlattices is discussed as well as the concept of Brillouin zone-folding and the formation of quasi-direct bandgaps. >
Inhibition of the Hammerhead Ribozyme Cleavage Reaction by Site-Specific Binding of Tb(III)

Terbium(III) [Tb(III)] was shown to inhibit the hammerhead ribozyme by competing with a single magnesium(II) ion. X-ray crystallography revealed that the Tb(III) ion binds to a site adjacent to an essential guanosine in the catalytic core of the ribozyme, approximately 10 angstroms from the cleavage site. Synthetic modifications near this binding site yielded an RNA substrate that was resistant to Tb(III) binding and capable of being cleaved, even in the presence of up to 20 micromolar Tb(III). It is suggested that the magnesium(II) ion thought to bind at this site may act as a switch, affecting the conformational changes required to achieve the transition state.
Potassium Hydrogen Fluoride

[7789-29-9] KHF2 (MW 78.1) InChI = 1S/F2H.K/c1-3-2;/q-1;+1 InChIKey = FLCWRBFUWAZYGV-UHFFFAOYSA-N (fluorinating agent; used in the synthesis of trifluoroborates from various organoborons; fluorinating reagent for ring opening of epoxides and cyclopropanes) Physical Data: mp 239 °C. Solubility: soluble in water, DMF. Form Supplied in: commercially available white solid. Analysis of Reagent Purity: mp, 19F NMR. Toxicity Data: highly toxic, corrosive, do not store in glass.
Developmental regulation of production of an aggregation‐stimulating factor from the cellular slime mold Polysphondylirrm violaceurn

Abstract An excreted, dialyzable component(s) produced during development of wild-type Polysphondylium violaceum has been previously shown to stimulate aggregation of aggregateless mutants in the complementation group agg A. Production of this aggregation-stimulating factor, called D factor, is greater during development in liquid culture than during development on a surface. After partial purification of crude D factor using high performance liquid chromatography, multiple species are found that retain the ability to stimulate aggregation of the agg A mutants. The three major components (Df A , Df B , and Df C ), show decreasing polarity based on purification using reverse-phase chromatography. The proportion of each component secreted varies, depending on the developmental conditions (surface versus liquid) and the time after starvation when the factors are isolated. Preliminary physical and chemical characterization of the three D factor components suggests that they are related.
HOME RANGE CHARACTERISTICS OF MEXICAN SPOTTED OWLS IN THE RINCON MOUNTAINS, ARIZONA

Abstract We studied a small isolated population of Mexican Spotted Owls (Strix occidentalis lucida) from 1996–1997 in the Rincon Mountains of Saguaro National Park, southeastern Arizona, USA. All mixed-conifer and pine-oak forest patches in the park were surveyed for Spotted Owls, and we located, captured, and radio-tagged 10 adult birds representing five mated pairs. Using radio-telemetry, we examined owl home range characteristics, roost habitat, and monitored reproduction within these five territories. Breeding season (Mar–Sep) home range size for 10 adult owls (95% adaptive kernel isopleths) averaged 267 ha (±207 SD), and varied widely among owls (range 34–652 ha). Mean home range size for owl pairs was 478 ha (±417 ha SD), and ranged from 70–1,160 ha. Owls that produced young used smaller home ranges than owls that had no young. Six habitat variables differed significantly between roost and random sites, including: percent canopy cover, number of trees, number of vegetation layers, average height of ...
Gender-Specific Factors Associated With Community Substance Abuse Treatment Utilization Among Incarcerated Substance Users

This article describes the independent correlates of preincarceration community substance abuse treatment utilization for male and female offenders currently participating in prison-based treatment. As part of the National Institute on Drug Abuse-funded Criminal Justice Drug Abuse Treatment Studies cooperative agreement, this protocol was implemented by four collaborating research centers. Males with a history of treatment utilization were more likely to be older, to have used crack, and to have had a greater number of arrests, and they were less likely to be arrested for a violent charge. Females with previous treatment were more likely to have been hospitalized for a health condition and were significantly more likely to have lived with someone else before prison rather than in their own home. These findings suggest that factors associated with preincarceration treatment utilization differ by gender, which may have important implications for correctional-based treatment assessment, reentry planning, and transitional case management.
Constraint optimization coordination architecture for search and rescue robotics

The dangerous and time sensitive nature of a disaster area makes it an ideal application for robotic exploration. Our long term goal is to enable humans, software agents, and autonomous robots to work together to save lives. Existing work in coordination for search and rescue does not address the variety of constraints that apply to the problem. This paper provides an expressive language for specifying system constraints. We also describe a coordination architecture capable of quickly finding an optimal or near optimal solution to the combined problems of task allocation, scheduling, and path planning subject to system constraints. We address a perceived lack of benchmarks for this research area by establishing a repository open to the research community which includes a set of benchmarks we designed to illustrate some of the complexities of the problem space. Finally, we evaluate various algorithms on these benchmarks
Enhanced Murine Macrophage TNF Receptor Shedding by Cytosine-Guanine Sequences in Oligodeoxynucleotides

The immunomodulatory role of unmethylated cytosine-guanine sequences (CpG) in bacterial DNA has been well documented. We have previously demonstrated that murine macrophage-like RAW 264.7 cells respond to CpG DNA with an increase in the proinflammatory cytokine, TNF-α, in both a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner. In addition, CpG DNA stimulates a significant, though delayed, secretion of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10. Because TNF-α and TNFR (TNFRI and II) expression are tightly regulated responses, we hypothesized that CpG containing oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG ODN) would also affect TNFRI and II shedding. Using both murine peritoneal macrophages and RAW 264.7 cells, we demonstrated a significant, time-dependent increase in soluble TNFRI and TNFRII production with CpG ODN stimulation. RAW 264.7 cells treated with CpG ODN had a transient increase in membrane TNFRII expression, but not TNFRI. Both types of TNFR mRNA were also up-regulated by CpG ODN, and addition of the transcriptional inhibitor actinomycin D abrogated the effect of CpG ODN on TNFR mRNA and protein expression. Addition of anti-IL-10 and anti-TNF-α Abs did not change these results. The addition of plate-bound anti-TNF receptor Abs to this system increased the amount of bioactive TNF, implying that these receptors are acting as inhibitors of TNF activity. These results suggest that the de novo, non-IL-10- and non-TNF-α-dependent transcription, translation, and shedding of TNFRs are additional potential counterinflammatory effects of CpG DNA.
Propagation of waves of finite amplitude along a duct of non-uniform cross-section

This paper is concerned with the propagation of a simple wave along a duct of initially constant and then slowly varying cross-section. The equations of motion are linearized in the deviations from the simple wave solution. The solution for the propagation of a centred simple rarefaction wave is obtained in closed form and compared with the results of step-by-step calculations. The results are also found to be good when the area change is not small. Some remarks on boundary-layer influence are included.
Climate sensitive measure of agricultural intensity: Case of Nepal

While acknowledging the influence of climate on agricultural intensification, most studies have ignored its application in the measurement of intensity. Through the inclusion of climate variables, this paper develops a time-weighted measure, the Crop Potential Index (CPI), which can be used to assess the production potential of a region. The CPI is compared with the more conventional method, Cropping Intensity (CI), to assess the significance of their differences in the three ecological zones of Nepal. The comparison of the CPI with that of the CI shows a significant difference between the two measures in all three ecological regions. The level of difference is larger in regions where climate is a limiting factor, such as the Mountain region of Nepal. The climate sensitive CPI can be considered as a more complete measurement tool and can be useful for planning agricultural development activities in Nepal. The advantage of the CPI is apparent in its ability to set a theoretical upper limit to the production potential of crops in a specific climatic region. Compared to the CI the CPI is more realistic in quantifying agricultural intensity in regions where climatic factors set the theoretical upper limit for crop growth and development.
Hashing Hyperplane Queries to Near Points with Applications to Large-Scale Active Learning

We consider the problem of retrieving the database points nearest to a given hyperplane query without exhaustively scanning the entire database. For this problem, we propose two hashing-based solutions. Our first approach maps the data to 2-bit binary keys that are locality sensitive for the angle between the hyperplane normal and a database point. Our second approach embeds the data into a vector space where the euclidean norm reflects the desired distance between the original points and hyperplane query. Both use hashing to retrieve near points in sublinear time. Our first method's preprocessing stage is more efficient, while the second has stronger accuracy guarantees. We apply both to pool-based active learning: Taking the current hyperplane classifier as a query, our algorithm identifies those points (approximately) satisfying the well-known minimal distance-to-hyperplane selection criterion. We empirically demonstrate our methods' tradeoffs and show that they make it practical to perform active selection with millions of unlabeled points.
Behavioral Efficiency II: A Simple Laboratory Demonstration 1

Laboratory experiments reporting on shortfalls from allocative efficiency of allocation mechanisms depend on the induced-values methodology, which cannot be extended to the field. Harstad [2011] proposes to observe efficiency of allocation mechanisms without knowing motivations via behavior in appropriately designed aftermarkets. This paper demonstrates the approach in a highly simplified economy: allocation of a single unit of an
Potential risks to freshwater resources as a result of leakage from CO2 geological storage: a batch-reaction experiment

In assessing the feasibility of widespread deployment of CO2 geological storage, it is prudent to first assess potential consequences of an error or accident that could lead to CO2 leakage into groundwater resources above a sequestration interval. Information about the sensitivity of the groundwater system to introduction of CO2 is needed in order to design groundwater monitoring program. A laboratory-batch experiment was conducted to explore the range of CO2 impact on groundwater quality of a spectrum of representative aquifers, in the Gulf Coast region, USA. Results show that CO2 elevated concentrations of many cations within hours or days. Two types of cations were recognized according to their concentration trends. Type I cations—Ca, Mg, Si, K, Sr, Mn, Ba, Co, B, Zn—rapidly increased following initial CO2 flux and reached stable concentrations before the end of the experiment. Type II cations—Fe, Al, Mo, U, V, As, Cr, Cs, Rb, Ni and Cu—increased at the start of CO2 flux, but declined, in most cases, to levels lower than pre-CO2 concentrations. Dissolution of dolomite and calcite caused the largest increase in concentrations for Ca, Mg, Mn, Ba and Sr. Cation release rates decreased linearly as pH increased during mineral buffering. Experiment results suggest that carbonate minerals are the dominant contributor of changes in groundwater quality. Risk assessments of potential degradation of groundwater and monitoring strategies should focus on these fast-reacting minerals. Mobilization risk of Type II cations, however, may be self-mitigated because adsorption occurs when pH rebounds.