cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Flexibility and Pricing Decisions for High-Volume Products with Short Life Cycles

We examine the competitive implications of a firm's ability to change over its facility for the manufacture of successive generations of high-volume products with short life cycles. This ability is known as changeover flexibility. The model introduced extends the existing literature in several directions. First, the model offers explicit treatment of the critical relationships between market entry time, changeover flexibility, product life cycles, and profit. Second, the model explicitly considers the effect of early market entry on the accumulation of manufacturing experience (learning), which reduces the unit production cost. Third, the product's optimal selling price is determined and its relation to the firm's changeover flexibility is examined. Last, facility flexibility is permitted to vary over a continuum. Therefore, we are able to capture decision making concerning the optimal degree of changeover flexibility. Both analytic and numerical results are reported, demonstrating the link between the operations and marketing domains in the context of a firm's optimal entrance and exit strategies. Among the key findings are (1) a firm more capable of reducing operating costs through learning over short life cycles optimally invests in more changeover flexibility, charges higher prices, and obtains greater profit; and (2) as the cost of flexible technologies decrease, a firm optimally increases its investment in changeover flexibility, enters markets earlier, and charges higher average prices over the product's life cycle.
CTRL/spl I.bar/SPACE: using animatronics to introduce children to computation

In this paper, we present hardware and a software environment called CTRL/spl I.bar/SPACE, specifically designed to introduce preliterate children to basic computational concepts. This is done through the control of an animatronic face whose individual components are used as an analogy for a programmable object. The software environment is visual, and the entire work is grounded in a critical historical view of computers and computation.
A Foot in the Door: Experiments with Integrating Library Services into the Online Classroom.

Abstract The Houston Community College System (HCCS) is one of the largest community colleges in the nation, serving over 52,000 students. Though there is no dedicated full-time distance education (DE) librarian at HCCS, “traditional” librarians are meeting the needs of a rapidly growing population of DE and hybrid students by adapting to new roles and applying technology in innovative ways. An adventuresome cadre of information professionals has been reaching out to students to engage them where learning takes place. These “virtual librarians” are embedded in Web-based courses in order to promote library services to students who may never set foot in a HCCS campus library. As DE enrollment continues to expand, however, it has become necessary to consolidate efforts, and this is being accomplished through the utilization of a Web log (blog) and syndication tools, as well as some additional free applications.
Influence of dietary fatty acids on liver and adipose tissue lipogenesis and on liver metabolites in meal-fed rats.

Rats were trained to eat a fat-free high carbohydrate diet from 800 to 1100 hours each day. After adaptation to meal-eating, the fat- free diet was supplemented with 8% methyl stA©arate(Ci8;o) or 3% methyl linoleate (Ci8:2) for 7 days. Relative to the fat-free group, hepatic utiliza tion of acetate unit equivalents (C2 units) for fatty acid synthesis per mg soluble protein by the Ci8:o group was not significantly altered, whereas Ci8:2 supplementation significantly depressed hepatic fatty acid synthesis. Supplemental Ci8:2 also caused a significant decline in liver fatty acid synthetase and acetyl CoA carboxylase while fat-free and Ci8:o groups dis played similar enzyme activities. Within a treatment, C2 unit utilization tor in vivo fatty acid synthesis was identical to that of acetyl CoA car boxylase and fatty acid synthetase activities in vitro. Therefore, shortly after a meal, the hepatic activities of these two enzymes appear to be functioning at near capacity. Ci8:2 supplementation to the fat-free diet for 7 days caused a 25% decline in glucokinase and pyruvate kinase activ ities, but only pyruvate kinase was significantly depressed. In contrast, citrate cleavage enzyme and fatty acid synthetase were both significantly reduced in activity by 50%. Plasma unesterified fatty acid levels in rats fed Ci8:2 for 5 days were not significantly elevated prior to a meal, al though dietary Ci8:2 did cause a fourfold rise in plasma free linoleate. Quantitation of long chain acyl CoA esters in freeze-clamped liver tissue of rats fed fat-free or fat-free plus 3% Ci8:2 or Ci8:3 diets revealed no con centration differences between treatments either before or after a meal. Similarly, lactate and pyruvate concentrations as well as the lactate: pyru vate ratios were not significantly changed by dietary Ci8:2 or Ci8:3. The inhibitory effects of C18:2 or Ci8;3 appear not to be mediated through changes in total plasma free fatty acid levels, in total hepatic long chain acyl CoA concentration or in hepatic cytosolic redox state. J. Nutr. 107: 1277-1287, 1977.
David Fennell Tourism and Animal Ethics

Over the last 30 years affording non-human animals basic rights has become a global issue. Dozens of organizations have formed, focusing on all aspects of animal rights, ranging from the general us...
Use of synthetic peptides in mapping the binding sites for hsp70 in a mitochondrial protein

Publisher Summary The structure of hsp70 consists of a variable C-terminal peptide-binding domain and a well-conserved N-terminal ATPase domain. Among the few consensus features identified in peptides binding to hsp70 with high affinity is the presence of internal hydrophobic residues, which agrees with the proposed role of this chaperone in binding to hydrophobic regions of unfolded proteins normally hidden in the native structure. However, a huge variety of synthetic peptides, including organellar targeting sequences, containing basic residues also bind to hsp70. With the exception of the presequence-containing peptides, and in agreement with the generally accepted mechanism of hsp70 action, the peptides that bind with high affinity to hsp70 comprise sequences that are hidden in the native state of the protein. These peptides contain central hydrophobic and basic carboxyl terminal amino acids, but few acidic residues. More interestingly, a sequence homology comparison of the cytosolic and mitochondrial protein sequences shows that the mitochondrial peptides binding to hsp70 correspond to regions of major sequence dissimilarity between the two isozymes. The cytosolic (cAAT) and mitochondrial (mAAT) isozymes of aspartate aminotransferase share a significant degree of sequence homology, and almost identical crystallographic structures. The mitochondrial isozyme is synthesized in the cytosol as a precursor protein (pmAAT) with a 29-residue presequence peptide that is required for targeting and importing into mitochondria.
Law enforcement officers' risk perceptions toward on-duty motor-vehicle events.

Purpose – Motor-vehicle-related events (MVEs) are the leading cause of on-duty death for law enforcement officers, yet little is known about how officers view this significant job hazard. The purpose of this paper is to explore officers’ motor-vehicle risk perception and examine how prior on-duty MVEs and the death or injury of a fellow officer influences this perception. Design/methodology/approach – A state-wide random sample of 136 law enforcement agencies was drawn using publically accessible databases, stratified on type and size of agency. In total, 60 agencies agreed to participate and a cross-sectional questionnaire was distributed to 1,466 officers. Using six-point Likert scales, composite scores for motor-vehicle and intentional violence risk perception were derived. A linear regression multivariable model was used to examine factors affecting motor-vehicle risk perception. Findings – Motor-vehicle risk perception scores were significantly higher than intentional violence scores. A prior on-duty...
Chromosome transfer experiments link regions on chromosome 7 to radiation resistance in human glioblastoma multiforme

Glioblastoma multiforme (GM) is the most lethal form of brain tumor, with a median survival of approximately 1 year. Treatment options are limited. Radiation therapy is a common form of treatment, but many tumors are resistant. In earlier studies, we found that gain of chromosome 7 is associated with radiation resistance in human primary GM. In this study, we extend that result to a model system in which we transferred chromosome 7 to recipient cells and confirmed radiation resistance as a function of chromosome 7 gain. We identified three candidate regions on chromosome 7 that conferred radiation resistance in our model system. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
School gardens and physical activity: a randomized controlled trial of low-income elementary schools.

Abstract Objective This study examines effects of a school garden intervention on elementary school children's physical activity (PA). Method Twelve schools in New York were randomly assigned to receive the school garden intervention (n = 6) or to the waitlist control group that later received gardens (n = 6). PA was measured by self-report survey (Girls Health Enrichment Multi-site Study Activity Questionnaire) (N = 227) and accelerometry (N = 124, 8 schools) at baseline (Fall 2011) and follow-up (Spring 2012, Fall 2012, Spring 2013). Direct observation (N = 117, 4 schools) was employed to compare indoor (classroom) and outdoor (garden) PA. Analysis was by general linear mixed models. Results Survey data indicate garden intervention children's reports of usual sedentary activity decreased from pre-garden baseline to post-garden more than the control group children's (Δ = − .19, p = .001). Accelerometry data reveal that during the school day, children in the garden intervention showed a greater increase in percent of time spent in moderate and moderate-to-vigorous PA from baseline to follow-up than the control group children (Δ = + .58, p = .010; Δ = + 1.0, p = .044). Direct observation within-group comparison of children at schools with gardens revealed that children move more and sit less during an outdoor garden-based lesson than during an indoor, classroom-based lesson. Conclusion School gardens show some promise to promote children's PA. Clinical Trials Registration: clinicaltrials.gov # NCT02148315 .
Nearest neighbor estimators for random fields

Abstract Generalizing the random sequence case, this study defines a k - NN density estimator for random variables with multidimensional lattice points serving as index values. The central result is that under random field stationary and mixing assumptions, as well as standard smoothness postulates, our k - NN estimate is found to be asymptotically normal. This result readily extends to NN -type estimates for jointly distributed random variables. For illustration, a simplified version of the k - NN estimator is applied to obtain the density estimate for a soil-moisture data set selected from the geostatistical literature.
Spatial mechanism design in virtual reality with networking

Mechanisms are used in many devices to move a rigid body through a finite sequence of prescribed locations in space. The most commonly used mechanisms are four-bar planar mechanisms that move an object in one plane in space. Spatial mechanisms allow motion in three-dimensions (3D). Spatial 4C mechanisms are two degree of freedom kinematic closed-chains consisting of four rigid links simply connected in series by cylindrical (C) joints. A cylindrical joint is a two degree of freedom joint which allows translation along and rotation about a line in space. This paper describes a synthesis process for the design of 4C spatial mechanisms in a virtual environment. Virtual reality allows the user to view and interact with digital models in a more intuitive way than using the traditional humancomputer interface (HCI). The software developed as part of this research also allows multiple users to network and share the designed mechanism. Networking tools have the potential to greatly enhance communication between members of the design team at different industrial sites and therefore reduce design costs.
Structural and Thermodynamic Characterization of T4 Lysozyme Mutants and the Contribution of Internal Cavities to Pressure Denaturation

Using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and tryptophan fluorescence spectroscopy, we have identified multiple compact denatured states of a series of T4 lysozyme mutants that are stabilized by high pressures. Recent studies imply that the mechanism of pressure denaturation is the penetration of water into the protein rather than the transfer of hydrophobic residues into water. To investigate water penetration and the volume change associated with pressure denaturation, we studied the solution behavior of four T4 lysozyme mutants having different cavity volumes at low and neutral pH up to a pressure of 400 MPa (0.1 MPa = 0.9869 atm). At low pH, L99A T4 lysozyme expanded from a compact folded state to a partially unfolded state with a corresponding change in radius of gyration from 17 to 32 A. The volume change upon denaturation correlated well with the total cavity volume, indicating that all of the molecule's major cavities are hydrated with pressure. As a direct comparison to high-pressure crystal structures of L99A T4 lysozyme solved at neutral pH [Collins, M. D., Hummer, G., Quillin, M. L., Matthews, B. W., and Gruner, S. M. (2005) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 102, 16668-16671], pressure denaturation of L99A and the structurally similar L99G/E108V mutant was studied at neutral pH. The pressure-denatured state at neutral pH is even more compact than at low pH, and the small volume changes associated with denaturation suggest that the preferential filling of large cavities is responsible for the compactness of the pressure-denatured state. These results confirm that pressure denaturation is characteristically distinct from thermal or chemical denaturation.
Effects of Joint Interpretation of the Strong Interest Inventory and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator in Career Choice:

Classes of community college students completed the Strong Interest Inventory (SII), the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), both instruments, or neither instrument. Contrary to previous findings that different vocational treatments produce similar effects, 12 weeks after test interpretation participants who had completed both instruments showed a pattern of more change in career goal, specificity of career goal, or level of certainty with reference to career goal in analyses of (a) the total sample (N = 427), (b) males only (n = 120), (c) females only (n = 307), (d) traditional age students only (n = 337), and (e) reentry students only (n = 90). The MBTI was rated to be as helpful as the SII in career decision making. Significant gender and age effects were found. Results support theoretical models relating understanding of one's personality with effective career development, and the joint use of the SII and MBTI in vocational counseling.
EXTIRPATION AND TRANSPLANTATION OF THE THYMI IN LARVAE OF RANA SYLVATICA (With five plates—89 figures)

INTRODUCTION The following study has been prepared from notes and preserved material left by the late E. R. Hoskins. The experiments were made by him in the spring of 1919 at the University of Pittsburgh. They consisted of extirpations and transplantations of the thymi of larvae of Rana sylvatica, planned with particular idea of determining the relation of these glands to the lymphoid organs which they so closely resemble. In a previous paper, this investigator (Hoskins, '18) expressed the belief that the thymus is a lymphoid organ, producing no internal secretion. The suggestion was made that “in the lower animals there is relatively little lymphoid tissue other than the spleen and thymus, and experiments with the thymus in these forms should, therefore, be very instructive on account of the relative simplicity of the problem.”The experiments herein reported were of three sorts: complete extirpation, unilateral extirpation, and transplantation of thymic tissue.
Distal revascularization-interval ligation: a durable and effective treatment for ischemic steal syndrome after hemodialysis access.

Abstract Purpose: The treatment of hemodialysis access-induced ischemic steal syndrome is challenging. Despite promising early results with the distal revascularization-interval ligation (DRIL) procedure, the operation has not been widely adopted because of concerns about its complexity and long-term efficacy. The purpose of this report was to determine the efficacy and durability of the DRIL procedure in relieving hand ischemia and in maintaining access patency in the setting of hemodialysis access-induced ischemia. Methods: A retrospective review was performed of all patients who underwent the DRIL procedure for access-induced ischemia. Demographic information was compiled, as were data regarding access and bypass patency, limb salvage, and patient survival. Arteriovenous access and brachial artery bypass patency rates were determined with life-table methods. Results: Between 1995 and 2001, we performed 55 DRIL procedures in 52 patients (35 women and 17 men; mean age, 60.8 years; range, 30 to 86 years). The indications for surgery were ischemic pain in 27 patients, tissue loss in 20 patients, loss of neurologic function in four patients, and pain on hemodialysis in one patient. Most patients (92%) had diabetes. The mean interval from access placement to DRIL was 7.4 months (range, 1 to 84 months). The mean follow-up interval was 16 months (range, 1 to 67 months). The brachial artery bypass primary patency rate was 80% at 4 years, and the arteriovenous access primary patency rate was 83% at 1 year. Forty-seven of 52 patients (90%) had substantial or complete relief of ischemic hand symptoms, and 15 of 20 patients with digital ischemic lesions have healed completely. Conclusion: DRIL is a durable and effective procedure that reliably accomplishes the twin goals in the treatment of angioaccess-induced ischemia: persistent relief of hand ischemia and continued access patency. (J Vasc Surg 2002;36:250-6.)
Asteroids: shaken on impact.

A single recent impact may have modified the craters on the asteroid Eros into the pattern we see today. This finding has implications for how we view the structure of asteroids — and for addressing any hazards they present.
Static fluid interfaces external to a right circular cylinder—experiment and theory

Abstract Experimental and numerical results are given for static axisymmetric interfacial surfaces of unbounded extent external to circular cylinders. Of particular significance is the appearance of an envelope curve (to the numerical solutions for the interfacial shapes) that corresponds to the maximum height of the meniscal contact circle above the free surface; no stable interface exists above this height. Experiments, for water-in-air, and mercury-in-air interfaces are in excellent agreement with the numerical results, both as to shape and break-off predictions. Analytical solutions for the interfacial surface are obtained for large and small contact circle radii; from these solutions, equations for the envelope are also presented. It is suggested that the break-off criterion can be used to advantage for measurement of surface tension.
Magnetization and magnetic entropy of ZrZn2

Abstract The magnetic properties of four samples of the weak itinerant-electron ferromagnet ZrZn 2 have been investigated. In addition, the previously published heat capacity measurements on these samples are analysed to extract the magnetic entropy. Comparison are made between the results and the predictions of the intinerant-electron and local moment models.
"Dip in the Wave": interactive sound installation controlled by the rope

"Dip in the Wave" is the interactive sound installation that people can directly compose continuous sound design in space by their physical approach. The way of the interaction is just changing the shape of the rope laid on the floor across the area. That shape is captured by the video camera and is converted to 1 cycle of sound wave. Then its sound comes out from audio speakers. The relation between what people do and the result is obvious both in visual and in hearing.
Energy-driven uptake of N-methyl-4-phenylpyridine by brain mitochondria mediates the neurotoxicity of MPTP

The oxidation of NAD+-linked substrates by rat brain mitochondria is completely inhibited by pre-incubation with 0.5 mM N-methyl-4-phenylpyridine (MPP+). The effect is dependent on the integrity of the mitochondria because far higher concentrations of MPP+ are required to inhibit NADH oxidation in inverted mitochondria or isolated inner membrane preparations. The reason for this difference in behavior has been traced to a novel system for the uptake of MPP+ into mitochondria against a concentration gradient. The uptake system is energized by the transmembrane potential, as shown by the fact that valinomycin plus K+, which collapses this gradient, abolishes MPP+ uptake, while agents which collapse the proton gradient have no effect on the process. If an uncoupler is added to mitochondria preloaded with MPP+, efflux of the latter occurs with the concentration gradient. The uptake system has been studied in liver, whole brain, cortex, and midbrain preparations from rats. It may be readily distinguished from the synaptic dopamine reuptake system, since the former is blocked by uncouplers and respiratory inhibitors, but not by dopamine or mazindol, whereas the synaptic system is blocked by mazindol and competitively inhibited by dopamine but is not affected by respiratory inhibitors or uncouplers. Energy-driven uptake of MPP+ by brain mitochondria may be a crucial step in the complex sequence of events leading to the neurotoxic actions of its precursor, MPTP.
Multiple paternity in wild populations of the garter snake, Thamnophis sirtalis

Many adaptations have arisen in response to spern competition. In garter snakes, males produce copulatory plugs that are thought to prevent such competition. We tested this assumption using paternity exclusion techniques with electrophoretic data from 32 litters of snakes collected from two populations. Multiple paternity was confirmed in 50% of the litters examined (13/22 Michigan litters; 3/10 Wisconsin litters), and we estimate that as many as 72% of the litters may have been multiply sired. The presence of multiple paternity was also confirmed using the technique of genotypic regression. Mean relatedness in litters with evidence of multiple paternity was 0.390±0.053; in litters lacking such evidence mean relatedness was 0.498±0.022. Thus our data reveal a high incidence of multiple paternity in these snakes and suggest that their adaptations to prevent sperm competition are surprisingly ineffective.
Immunostaining for cytokeratin 20 improves detection of micrometastatic Merkel cell carcinoma in sentinel lymph nodes.

Abstract Background: Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNBx) can identify Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) micrometastasis. Objective: We attempted to examine the effectiveness of immunostaining and identify antibodies most appropriate for evaluation of SLNBxs for MCC. Methods: Histopathologic material from 10 patients with MCC who had SLNBx was reviewed. Results: Twenty-three SLNBxs from 10 patients appeared tumor-free in routine hematoxylin-eosin (HE46:661-6.)
Telescope protection algorithm for the Space Infrared Telescope Facility

This paper presents a proposed on-board Telescope Protection Algorithm (TPA) for the Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF). This TPA consists of hardware and software capable of performing both fail-operational and fail-safe modes of operation. In the fail-operational mode, each ephemeris load and slew/dwell command sequence is checked on-board before use. The slew command monitor detects unallowable slew/dwell commands and transfers control to an algorithm which slews to and maintains a safe telescope orientation while preserving precise attitude determination and control. This fail-operational mode is also given the authority to autonomously restart the slew/dwell sequence at a point beyond the faulty command. The fail-safe system consists of software and hardware which detects impending earth, moon, or sun avoidance zone violations and activates a backup hardware safe hold mode. The subject TPA and relevant sensor complement were designed for the SIRTF mission; however, this system can easily be used as a basis for failure detection and correction in a wide range of other missions.
Segregation of Color and Growth-Regulating Genes in Somatic Tissue of Maize

A microscopical examination of mature seeds of Zea mays in a number of different lines has shown a surprisingly large number of color and growth mosaics in aleurone and endosperm tissue. Maize endosperm is unusually favorable material in which to study genetic changes in somatic tissue. It is a short-lived, food-storage structure. Changes can occur late in development with no serious injury to the young seedling. Consequently aberrations have not been selected against as severely as in other parts of the organism.
Decreased neutrophil respiratory burst on exposure to cobalt‐chrome alloy and polystyrene in vitro

The effect of biomaterials on the superoxide-producing ability of neutrophils was studied. Human peripheral blood neutrophils were incubated with cobalt-base alloy (F-75) or polystyrene beads of a nonphagocytosable size. Respiratory burst activity was studied by measuring superoxide dismutase inhibitable reduction of cytochrome C. Neutrophils were found to release no more superoxide anion on incubation for up to 3 h with either material in a protein-free medium than controls without foreign material. However, the ability of neutrophils incubated with either biomaterial to subsequently respond to phorbol myristate acetate challenge was decreased (p less than 0.05). Chemical analysis of supernatants for the F-75 samples showed a high concentration of cobalt in the medium within 1 h of incubation. Minimal chromium and nickel was detected. No correlation could be demonstrated between metal in solution and the respiratory burst defect in neutrophils. Instead it appears that interaction of cells with either surface was the critical event in altering the response to phorbol myristate acetate. This observed functional defect may play an important role in rendering tissue around implanted biomaterials susceptible to infections.
Retrieval-Induced Forgetting Occurs in Tests of Item Recognition

Using theretrieval-practice paradigm (Anderson, R. A. Bjork, & E. L. Bjork, 1994), we tested whether or not retrieval-induced forgetting could be found in item recognition tests. In Experiment 1, retrieval practice on items from semantic categories depressed recognition of nonpracticed items from the same categories. Similar results were found in Experiment 2 in a more stringent source test for practiced, nonpracticed, and new items. These results conceptually replicate those of previous retrievalinduced forgetting studies done with cued recall (e.g., Anderson et al., 1994). Our findings are inconsistent with the hypothesis that item-specific cues during retrieval will eliminate retrieval interference in the retrieval-practice paradigm (Butler, Williams, Zacks, & Maki, 2001). We discuss our results in relation to other retrieval interference and inhibition effects in recall and recognition.
Analyte-receptor binding kinetics for biosensor applications. An analysis of the influence of the fractal dimension on the binding rate coefficient.

The diffusion-limited binding kinetics of antigen (analyte), in solution with antibody (receptor) immobilized on a biosensor surface, is analyzed within a fractal framework. Most of the data presented is adequately described by a single-fractal analysis. This was indicated by the regression analysis provided by Sigmaplot. A single example of a dual-fractal analysis is also presented. It is of interest to note that the binding-rate coefficient (k) and the fractal dimension (Df) both exhibit changes in the same and in the reverse direction for the antigen-antibody systems analyzed. Binding-rate coefficient expressions, as a function of the Df developed for the antigen-antibody binding systems, indicate the high sensitivity of thek on the Df when both a single- and a dual-fractal analysis are used. For example, for a single-fractal analysis, and for the binding of antibody Mab 0.5β in solution to gpl20 peptide immobilized on a BIAcore biosensor, the order of dependence on the Df was 4.0926. For a dual-fractal analysis, and for the binding of 25-100 ng/mL TRITC-LPS (lipopolysaccharide) in solution with polymyxin B immobilized on a fiberoptic biosensor, the order of dependence of the binding-rate coefficients, k1 and k2 on the fractal dimensions, Df1 and Df2, were 7.6335 and-11.55, respectively. The fractional order of dependence of thek(s) on the Df(s) further reinforces the fractal nature of the system. Thek(s) expressions developed as a function of the Df(s) are of particular value, since they provide a means to better control biosensor performance, by linking it to the heterogeneity on the surface, and further emphasize, in a quantitative sense, the importance of the nature of the surface in biosensor performance.
Writing the City

Anthropologist John Hartigan considers the tricks and travails of writing about cities, via a review of Detroit: An American Autopsy and Unfathomable City: A New Orleans Atlas.
Self-assembled rare-earth silicide nanowires on Si(001)

This paper presents scanning tunneling microscope images of several rare-earth metal silicides grown on silicon (001). For certain of the metals studied (Dy, Ho), an anisotropy in lattice match with the substrate results in the formation of nanowires. These nanowires have desirable properties such as nanometer lateral dimension, crystalline structure with a low density of defects, and micrometer scale length. Tunneling spectroscopy on the nanowires indicates that they are metallic.
Standards for Corrected Fluorescence Spectra

A set of four fluorescent standards has been produced and calibrated at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) for corrected relative spectral emission over the wavelength range from 400 to 740 nm. This new Standard Reference Material (SRM) 1931 has been produced in the form of sintered mixtures of inorganic phosphors and polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE) powder for spectral response calibration of spectrofluorimeters used in biology, medicine and studies of molecular structure. They provide a means for correcting spectrofluorimeter errors due to wavelength dependencies of optics, monochromators, and detectors, thus permitting meaningful intercomparison of results obtained in different laboratories.
Use of Telazol to immobilize female northern sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) in Alaska.

Twenty-nine female northern sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) were immobilized using Telazol® in dosages ranging from 1.8 to 8.1 mg/kg. Best results were achieved with Telazol® dosages ranging between 1.8 and 2.5 mg/kg which resulted in smooth induction and recovery. Optimal injection location was in the muscle mass of the lower back and hip. Dosages >3.5 mg/kg resulted in a tendency toward hypothermia. Six mortalities occurred which were partially caused by the location of drug injection and perhaps the high dosage.
A New Parametric Tropical Cyclone Tangential Wind Profile Model

AbstractA new parametric tropical cyclone (TC) wind profile model is presented for depicting representative surface pressure profiles corresponding to multiple-maxima wind profiles that exhibit single-, dual-, and triple-maximum concentric-eyewall wind peaks associated with the primary (inner), secondary (first outer), and tertiary (second outer) complete rings of enhanced radar reflectivity. One profile employs five key parameters: tangential velocity maximum, radius of the maximum, and three different shape velocity parameters related to the shape of the profile. After tailoring the model for TC applications, a gradient wind is computed from a cyclostrophic wind formulated in terms of the cyclostrophic Rossby number. A pressure, via cyclostrophic balance, was partitioned into separate pressure components that corresponded to multiple-maxima cyclostrophic wind profiles in order to quantitatively evaluate the significant fluctuations in central pressure deficits. The model TC intensity in terms of varying...
Slurry particle size evolution during the polishing of optical glass

The particle size distribution of aqueous metal-oxide slurries can evolve during the polishing of optical glass in response to changes in mechanical and chemical process factors. The size-evolution phenomenon and its consequences were systematically studied in a planar continuous-polishing process. The concurrent application of electrokinetic techniques to characterize common optical shop materials has contributed new insight into the nature of silicate glass polishing by demonstrating the pivotal role of fluid chemistry, particularly pH, in maintaining electrokinetically favorable conditions for a welldispersed polishing agent. According to the proposed slurry-charge-control effect, a well-dispersed polishing agent is the key to obtaining the smoothest possible glass surfaces, especially when a recirculated slurry is used.
Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) signalling in palatal growth, apoptosis and epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT)

Formation of the medial edge epithelial (MEE) seam by fusing the palatal shelves is a crucial step of palate development. The opposing shelves adhere to each other at first by adherens junctions, then by desmosomes in the MEE. The MEE seam disappears by epithelial mesenchymal transformation (EMT), which creates confluence of connective tissue across the palate. Cleft palate has a mutifactorial etiology that often includes failure of adherence of apposing individual palatal shelves and/or EMT of the MEE. In this review, we first discuss TGFbeta biology, including functions of TGFbeta isoforms, receptors, down stream transcription factors, endosomes, and signalling pathways. Different isoforms of the TGFbeta family play important roles in regulating various aspects of palate development. TGFbeta1 and TGFbeta2 are involved in growth, but it is TGFbeta3 that regulates MEE transformation to mesenchyme to bring about palatal confluence. Its absence results in cleft palate. Understanding of TGFbeta family signalling is thus essential for development of therapeutic strategies. Because TGFbeta3 and its downstream target, LEF1, play the major role in epithelial transformation, it is important to identify the signalling pathways they use for palatal EMT. Here, we will discuss in detail the mechanisms of palatal seam disappearance in response to TGFbeta3 signalling, including the roles, if any, of growth and apoptosis, as well as EMT in successful MEE adherence and seam formation. We also review recent evidence that TGFbeta3 uses Smad2 and 4 during palatal EMT, rather than beta-Catenin, to activate LEF1. TGFbeta1 has been reported to use non-Smad signalling using RhoA or MAPKinases in vitro, but these are not involved in activation of palatal EMT in situ. A major aim of this review is to document the genetic mechanisms that TGFbeta uses to bring about palatal EMT and to compare these with EMT mechanisms used elsewhere.
Correlation of clinical and radiographic findings in Kienböck's disease

Radiographic and clinical findings were reviewed in 50 patients with Kienbock's disease. In 40 patients the clinical and radiographic findings were complete enough to allow correlation of findings. Measurements were made from radiographs in an attempt to quantify the anatomic substrate of Kienbock's disease and to determine which radiographic measurements might be helpful in predicting the course and prognosis of the disease. The measurements included ulnar variance, radial slope, carpal index, carpal angle, combined cortical thickness, optical density, radial slant, scapho-lunate angle, lunate deformation quotient, and the radiographic stages modified from Stahl. These measurements were correlated with patient's history, age at onset of disease, range of motion, and grip strength. Relevant anatomic factors were ulnar variance and the radial slope. The best radiographic features for correlation with loss of motion and grip strength were the Innate deformation quotient and, to a lesser extent, the carpal index. None of the radiographic measurements were very strongly correlated with the clinical findings.
Science Signaling Podcast: 8 June 2010

This is a conversation with Howard Rockman about a Research Article published in the 8 June 2010 issue of Science Signaling.
Laser Assisted Growth Of Optical Quality Single Crystal Fibers

Single crystal fibers of four refractory oxide materials (Ae20 3 , Cr:AZ 2 0 3 , Nd:YAG and LiNb03) have been grown by a miniature pedestal growth technique. The growth apparatus employs novel electronic control, mechanical and optical systems enabling growth of high optical quality fibers. All four materials exhibit similar growth characteristics and yield fibers of comparable quality. Measured optical waveguide losses at 632.8 nm for a 5 cm long 170 μm diameter CreAZ 2 0 3 fiber were 0.04 dB/cm.
Effects of mutagenic treatment by ethidium bromide on cellular and mitochondrial phenotype

The phenotypic consequences of quantitative mutagenesis by ethidium bromide (EB) have been investigated. When starved cells (2 × 107/ml in phosphate buffer) of Saccharomyces cerevisiae are treated with 20 μg EB/ml for 150 min, they generate respiration deficient cytoplasmic petite (p−) clones to the extent of greater than 98%. Phenotypically such a population of EB-induced cells (EBIC) growing in the absence of the mutagen is initially respiration sufficient but loses its capability of growth on a nonfermentable carbon source (e.g., lactate) within 2–3 mass doublings. In contrast EBIC are capable of continued and sustained growth on galactose, a fermentable but weakly repressing carbon source. Under all these conditions the initial phenotypic lesion appears to be confined to the inner mitochondrial membrane and is manifested by an inability of elaborating cytochrome oxidase activity and cytochromes a·a3+. These results are explained in terms of an EB-induced modification of mitochondrial DNA which makes impossible the continued transcription of a gene product(s) essential for the functions just described.
Perpendicularly oriented FePt nanoparticles sputtered on heated substrates

Abstract Textured FePt/C nanocomposite films have been deposited onto heated substrates at a temperature up to 650°C. At ambient substrate temperature, FePt and carbon form a multilayered structure with a disordered FCC structure which is magnetically soft. Post-annealing in the range of 550–750°C leads to the formation of ordered FePt particles. FePt nanoparticles with strong perpendicular texture were obtained by depositing directly onto heated substrates at a temperature above 450°C. TEM data show well-separated FePt particles of unique elongated shape with the major axis (∼20 nm) oriented in a direction perpendicular to the film. The development of the texture is controlled by both the substrate temperature and bilayer film thickness. Kelly Henkel plots indicate small interactions between the particles in both the parallel and perpendicular directions.
Extension of the Anaconda metamorphic core complex: 40Ar/39Ar thermochronology and implications for Eocene tectonics of the northern Rocky Mountains and the Boulder batholith

Thermochronologic data define the extension and exhumation history of the Anaconda metamorphic core complex and have implications for the Eocene tectonic setting of the northern Rocky Mountains. The 40 Ar/ 39 Ar data indicate that relatively rapid extension on the Anaconda detachment started at ca. 53 Ma and continued through ca. 39 Ma. Apatite fission-track data reveal that faulting and exhumation of the footwall continued until ca. 27 Ma. The average displacement rate on the Anaconda detachment was on the order of 1 mm/yr between ca. 50 and 39 Ma based on the lateral gradient in mica 40 Ar/ 39 Ar ages in the direction of fault slip. The total displacement along the Anaconda detachment in Eocene and Oligocene times is estimated to be ≥25–28 km based on reconstruction of the Cretaceous Storm Lake Stock with its detached roof, which is now exposed in the Deer Lodge Valley. Extension exhumed crust from ∼12 km depth and exposed middle-greenschist-facies mylonites in the easternmost part of the Anaconda complex footwall. On a regional scale, the Anaconda detachment dips east beneath the Cretaceous Boulder batholith, indicating that the batholith and the Butte mineralization were transported east in the hanging wall. The Anaconda metamorphic core complex formed at the transition between the Cordilleran hinterland and the foreland at the same time as extension occurred in the Bitterroot and Priest River metamorphic core complexes but exhumed a shallower part of the Eocene crustal section than the contemporaneous complexes to the west.
Updated Liquefaction Resistance Correction Factors for Aged Sands

Data from over 30 sites in 5 countries are analyzed to develop updated factors for correcting liquefaction resistance for aged sand deposits. Results of cyclic laboratory tests on relatively undisturbed and reconstituted specimens suggest an increase in the correction factors of 0.12 per log cycle of time and an average reference age of 2 days for the reconstitute specimens. Laboratory and field test results combined with cyclic resistance ratio (CRR) charts suggest an increase in the correction factors of 0.13 per log cycle of time and an average reference age of 23 years. A reference age of 23 years seems appropriate for the commonly used CRR charts derived from field liquefaction and no liquefaction case history data. Because age of natural deposits is often difficult to accurately determine, a relationship between measured to estimated shear-wave velocity ratio (MEVR) and liquefaction resistance correction factor is also derived directly from the compiled data. This new MEVR-liquefaction resistance correction factor relationship is not as sensitive to MEVR as in the relationship derived indirectly in a previous paper.
Liquid nitrogen cryotherapy of superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis.

Purpose To evaluate the effects of liquid nitrogen cryotherapy on superior limbic keratoconjunctivitis (SLK). Design Interventional case series. Methods In this clinical practice case series, the effects of liquid nitrogen cryotherapy on SLK were observed. Liquid nitrogen cryotherapy was performed using a Brymill E tip spray (0.013-inch aperture) with a double freeze-thaw technique. All subjects were outpatients who had local anesthesia with a single drop of topical proparacaine. The main outcome measure was the resolution of the disease process after treatment. Results Four female patients (average age, 64 ± 13 years) and seven eyes with SLK were treated with liquid nitrogen cryotherapy. Resolution of signs and symptoms occurred within two weeks. Disease recurred in two patients and three of seven eyes, although repeat cryotherapy eradicated SLK in all cases. The repeat cryotherapy was performed at three months postoperatively. There were no adverse ocular events. Conclusions Liquid nitrogen cryotherapy appears to be an effective alternative treatment for SLK as all subjects studied achieved long-term cures. Repeat cryotherapy may be necessary in some instances and may be performed three months after the first treatment.
Postprandial elevation of tissue factor antigen in the blood of healthy adults

Atherosclerosis is a dynamic disease involving lipid metabolism, inflammation and thrombosis.A key factor in thrombosis is tissue factor, a small transmembrane glycoprotein. Tissue factor binds FactorVIIa, and this complex converts Factor X to Factor Xa, leading to thrombin generation and fibrin formation. Inhibition of this pathway is by tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI).Tissue factor is found sequestered within atherosclerotic plaques, and plaque rupture allows tissue factor exposure to the circulation, leading to formation of a thrombus.Tissue factor is also associated with membrane microparticles in the circulation, most likely released from monocytes activated by an inflammatory event.We hypothesize that consumption of a typical western diet that is moderate in fat content leads to elevated levels of circulating tissue factor that may act as a marker of a pro thrombotic state. Healthy volunteers, aged 18–55, consumed a moderate (40%) fat meal, with blood taken before and 3.5 and 6 h after the meal.Plasma was isolated and assayed for plasma triglycerides, tissue factor, thrombin antithrombin (TAT) complexes, TFPI and TNFa . The levels of circulating tissue factor increased 56% (from 78 pg/ml to120 pg/ml) 3.5 h after the meal. Levels decreased,but had not returned to baseline 6 h postprandially. No significant differences in TAT, TFPI and TNFa levels were observed postprandially. These results demonstrate increased tissue factor levels in individuals who consumed a moderate fat diet.This suggests that the typical western diet may play a larger role in cardiovascular disease than merely altering lipid profiles.
High-Reynolds-number turbulence in small apparatus: grid turbulence in cryogenic liquids

Liquid helium at 4.2 K has a viscosity that is about 40 times smaller than that of water at room temperature, and about 600 times smaller than that of air at atmospheric pressure. It is therefore a convenient fluid for generating in a table-top apparatus turbulent flows at high Reynolds numbers that require large air and water facilities. Here, we produce turbulence behind towed grids in a liquid helium chamber that is 5 cm 2 in cross-section at mesh Reynolds numbers of up to 7 x 10 5 . Liquid nitrogen is intermediate in its viscosity as well as refrigeration demands, and so we also exploit its use to generate towed-grid turbulence up to mesh Reynolds number of about 2 x 10 4 . In both instances, we map two-dimensional fields of velocity vectors using particle image velocimetry, and compare the data with those in water and air
Introducing Metaphors of Chaos to Adult Education

Chaos theory is providing us with new images of the world. The new science of Chaos or Nonlinear Dynamics examines patterns of complex and simple systems. Two principles emerging from the science of Chaos are sensitive dependence on initial condition and self-similarity as symmetry across scale. These principles form viable metaphors for the field of adult education. Sensitive dependence on initial condition, for example, could alert us, in planning our programs, to small changes in the process which can magnify into very large changes. Self-similarity as symmetry across scale might provide us with organizing guidelines for educational curriculum. Learning patterns within learning patterns within learning patterns may be formed. Chaos theory, then, can offer adult education rich metaphors through which to examine, in new ways, what it is doing.