cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Carbon and Nitrogen Cycling in Southwestern Ponderosa Pine Forests.

Ponderosa pine forests of the southwestern United States were historically characterized by relatively open, parklike stands with a bunchgrass-dominated understory. This forest structure was maintained by frequent, low-intensity surface fires. Heavy livestock grazing, fire suppression, and favorable weather conditions following Euro-American settlement in the late 19th century resulted in a dramatic increase in pine regeneration. Today, many of these forest stands have high stand densities with low understory production, and are susceptible to infrequent, stand-replacing fires. The primary objective of our study was to better characterize the contemporary carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling processes in relatively unmanaged southwestern ponderosa pine stands. We then compared these ecosystem conditions with those of an adjacent stand that had received an ecological restoration treatment that included thinning and prescribed burning. Our results suggest that N availability and aboveground net primary productivity (ANPP) of trees in these forests are low compared to other forests. Restoration treatments decreased ANPP but increased the proportion of ANPP in woody tissues. These treatments also increased soil respiration, water availability, temperature, and net nitrification, but had no effect on net N mineralization and microbial N. We speculate that the understory response to restoration treatments is a key factor affecting the overall ecosystem response in these forests.
Shame: The Underside of Narcissism

Morrison provides a critical history of analytic and psychiatric attempts to make sense of shame, beginning with Freud and culminating in Kohut's understanding of shame in terms of narcissistic phenomena. The clinical section of the book clarifies both the theoretical status and treatment implications of shame in relation to narcissistic personality disorder, neurosis and higher-level character pathology, and manic-depressive illness.
The geography of tourism. An introduction.

Abstract The geography of tourism is limited by a dearth of published research in geographic journals, the relatively few individuals who actively participate in the sub-discipline, and the lack of prestige the subject matter specialty has in geography. Despite these imperfections geographers make important contributions to the study of tourism because of their unique point-of-view. This characteristic perspective is seen in the context of a conceptual frame-of-reference which consists of a matrix based on two trichotomies. An analysis and interpretation of this framework and its application to the nine substantive articles included in the special issue constitute a majority of the article.
The Mechanism of 6-Deoxyhexose Synthesis: II. CONVERSION OF DEOXYTHYMIDINE DIPHOSPHATE 4-KETO-6-DEOXY-D-GLUCOSE TO DEOXYTHYMIDINE DIPHOSPHATE L-RHAMNOSE

Abstract The enzyme system from Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 7700 catalyzing the conversion of deoxythymidine diphosphate 4-keto-6-deoxy-d-glucose to deoxythymidine diphosphate-l-rhamnose, dTDP-4-keto-6-deoxy-d-glucose + TPNH + H+ → TPN + dTDP-l-rhamnose has been separated into two protein fractions. Both fractions are required for the over-all reaction. Enzyme II will catalyze the exchange of the hydrogens at C-3 and C-5 of dTDP-4-keto-6-deoxy-d-glucose with the medium. dTDP-l-rhamnose synthesized with the purified enzymes in D2O contains 1 atom of deuterium at C-3 and 1 atom of deuterium at C-5 of l-rhamnose. Possible mechanisms to account for these observations are discussed. These mechanisms postulate that dTDP-4-keto-6-deoxy-l-mannose bound to Enzyme II is reduced by Enzyme I and TPNH. Heat denaturation studies indicate that Enzyme I can bind TPNH.
Understanding the landscape

At a meeting such as this, one is tempted to compare our present strugglesto understand string theory, and to ﬁnd clearer evidence for or against theclaim that it describes our universe, with the deep issues discussed at pastSolvay conferences. Now my experience has been that when visiting Belgium,giving in to temptation is generally a good thing to do, so with no furtherapology let us proceed.As was beautifully described here by Peter Galison, the 1911 meetingfocused on the theory of radiation, and the quantum hypotheses invented toexplain black body radiation and the photoelectric eﬀect. These were simpledescriptions of simple phenomena, which suggested a new paradigm. Thiswas to accept the basic structure of previous models, but modify the laws ofclassical mechanics by inventing new, somewhat ad hocrules governing quan-tum phenomena. This paradigm soon scored a great success in Bohr’s theoryofthe hydrogen atom. The discovery ofthe electron and Rutherford’s scatter-ing experiments had suggested modeling an atom as analogous to a planetarysystem. But while planetary conﬁgurations are described by continuous pa-rameters, real atoms have a unique ground state, well-deﬁned spectral lines
Shared Vision promotes family firm performance

A clear picture of the influential drivers of private family firm performance has proven to be an elusive target. The unique characteristics of private family owned firms necessitate a broader, non-financial approach to reveal firm performance drivers. This research study sought to specify and evaluate the themes that distinguish successful family firms from less successful family firms. In addition, this study explored the possibility that these themes collectively form an effective organizational culture that improves longer-term firm performance. At an organizational level of analysis, research findings identified four significant variables: Shared Vision (PNS), Role Clarity (RCL), Confidence in Management (CON), and Professional Networking (OLN) that positively impacted family firm financial performance. Shared Vision exhibited the strongest positive influence among the significant factors. In addition, Family Functionality (APGAR), the functional integrity of the family itself, exhibited a significant supporting role. Taken together, the variables collectively represent an effective family business culture (EFBC) that positively impacted the long-term financial sustainability of family owned firms. The index of effective family business culture also exhibited potential as a predictive non-financial model of family firm performance.
Doing Business in the New Myanmar by Myint, T., Janviroj, P., Thu, A. M., Neal, L., Matthew, I., & Sukdinunt, Y.

Myanmar has been known for many years in international circles as a pariah state for its well-documented Orwellian governmental policies, human rights abuses, and cause celeb house arrest of politi...
Immunochemical Evidence for an Association of Heme Oxygenase with the Microsomal Electron Transport System

Abstract The relationship between spleen and liver microsomal heme oxygenase activities and the microsomal electron transport system requiring NADPH and cytochrome P-450 has been demonstrated by immunochemical techniques. An antibody preparation to purified, homogeneous NADPH-cytochrome c reductase (NADPH-cytochrome c oxidoreductase, EC 1.6.2.3) was shown to inhibit concomitantly NADPH-cytochrome c reductase and heme oxygenase activities in rat liver and spleen and pig spleen microsomal preparations. Previous work demonstrated the requirement for this enzymic activity in the reduction of cytochrome P-450 associated with drug hydroxylation reactions and steroid metabolism by concomitant inhibition of these various activities with anti-NADPH-cytochrome c reductase γ-globulin. The levels of NADPH-cytochrome c reductase in both rat and pig spleen reported in the present study are less than 10% of those found in rat and pig liver. Even at these levels, however, the reductase activity is sufficient to maintain the electron flux required for heme oxygenase activity under conditions in which heme catabolism is maximal. Methemalbumin treatment of rats resulted in a 3.7-fold increase in hepatic heme oxygenase activity which was concomitantly inhibited by anti-reductase γ-globulin, indicating that the induced enzyme system maintained its requirement for the microsomal electron transport system. Comparison of electron paramagnetic resonance spectra and ethyl isocyanide difference spectra of liver microsomes from untreated and methemalbumin-treated rats failed to demonstrate the induction of a new cytochrome moiety as a result of in vivo administration of methemalbumin, a substrate for the heme oxygenase system. The administration of methemalbumin in vivo to rats did not result in an increase in the components of the hepatic microsomal electron transport system, i.e. NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity or cytochrome P-450 content, indicating that the modulation and control mechanisms of the microsomal heme oxygenase system differ from those governing the microsomal electron transport system. Methemalbumin treatment resulted in noncompetitive inhibition of the binding of both Type I and Type II drugs in rat liver microsomal preparations. In addition to the antibody inhibition studies, the temporal relationship demonstrated among the decrease in magnitude of binding spectra of hexobarbital, the increase in heme oxygenase activity, the decrease in measurable cytochrome P-450 content, and the reversal of these parameters during the recovery phase following a single injection of methemalbumin strongly indicates the involvement of the same components of the microsomal electron transport system in both the drug metabolism and heme oxygenase systems in liver.
A Continuous-Time Delta-Sigma Modulator for Biomedical Ultrasound Beamformer Using Digital ELD Compensation and FIR Feedback

This paper presents the design of a continuous-time $\Delta\Sigma$ modulator (CTDSM) to be used in an ultrasound beamformer for biomedical imaging. To achieve better resolution, the prototype modulator operates at 1.2 GHz. It incorporates a digital excess loop delay (ELD) compensation to replace the active adder in front of the internal quantizer. A digitally controlled reference-switching matrix, combined with the data-weighted averaging (DWA) technique, results in a delay-free feedback path. A multi-bit FIR feedback DAC, along with its compensation path, is used to achieve lower clock jitter sensitivity and better loop filter linearity. The modulator achieves 79.4 dB dynamic range, 77.3 dB SNR, and 74.3 dB SNDR over a 15 MHz signal bandwidth. Fabricated in a 65 nm CMOS process, the core modulator occupies an area of only 0.16 ${\rm mm}^{2}$ and dissipates 6.96 mW from a 1 V supply. A 58.6 fJ/conversion-step figure of merit is achieved.
Elementary Teachers’ Beliefs of African Americans in the Mathematics Classroom

The underlying theme of the Equity Principle in the Principles and Standards for School Mathematics (NCTM, 2000) is all students can learn mathematics. Unfortunately, many African American students are consistently demonstrating low mathematical achievement and many educators refuse to acknowledge racial inequities faced by African Americans in the mathematics classroom. In this qualitative study, twelve elementary mathematics teachers from four school districts in the Midwest are interviewed about their beliefs about teaching African American students and teaching mathematics to African American students. The teachers in this study believe African American students can and do succeed in mathematics, which is contrary to the belief held by some educators that African American students cannot do outstanding work. The findings in this study reveal that mathematics teachers need productive beliefs specifically related to African American students, how African American students learn, and effective teaching practices for African American students in order to teach mathematics through an equitable lens.
Visual sensitivity of the eye to infrared laser radiation

The foveal sensitivity to several near-infrared laser wavelengths was measured. It was found that the eye could respond to radiation at wavelengths at least as far as 1064 nm. A continuous 1064 nm laser source appeared red, but a 1060 nm pulsed laser source appeared green, which suggests the presence of second harmonic generation in the retina.
Molecular forms of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone in the canine pituitary anterior and intermediate lobe

Reverse-phase high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and radioimmunoassay (RIA) were used to determine the distribution of naturally occurring forms of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) in acid extracts of pars intermedia (PI) and anterior lobe (AL) tissue from canine and rat pituitary. Similarly, intracellular and secreted forms of alpha-MSH were determined using cultured canine PI and AL cells. Rat PI tissue contained predominantly diacetyl-alpha-MSH, while monoacetyl-alpha-MSH was the most abundant form in canine PI. In both canine and rat AL tissue extracts desacetyl-alpha-MSH was the major form of alpha-MSH. The profile of alpha-MSH contained in and secreted into culture medium by canine PI cells was found to be very similar to that in PI tissue extracts. The proportion of monoacetyl-alpha-MSH and diacetyl-alpha-MSH secreted by cultured canine AL cells and contained in extracts of AL cells in culture, however, was much higher than that in tissue extracts. These results indicate that in the dog, as in all other mammalian species studied, acetylated forms of alpha-MSH predominate in PI tissue, while nonacetylated alpha-MSH is the major form in AL tissue. It appears, however, that acetylation of alpha-MSH may occur in cultured canine AL cells, possibly as a result of the absence of factors that normally inhibit acetyltransferase in vivo or as a consequence of culture conditions.
Reconstitution and subunit geometry of human condensin complexes

Vertebrate cells possess two different condensin complexes, known as condensin I and condensin II, that play a fundamental role in chromosome assembly and segregation during mitosis. Each complex contains a pair of structural maintenance of chromosomes (SMC) ATPases, a kleisin subunit and two HEAT-repeat subunits. Here we use recombinant human condensin subunits to determine their geometry within each complex. We show that both condensin I and condensin II have a pseudo-symmetrical structure, in which the N-terminal half of kleisin links the first HEAT subunit to SMC2, whereas its C-terminal half links the second HEAT subunit to SMC4. No direct interactions are detectable between the SMC dimer and the HEAT subunits, indicating that the kleisin subunit acts as the linchpin in holocomplex assembly. ATP has little, if any, effects on the assembly and integrity of condensin. Cleavage pattern of SMC2 by limited proteolysis is changed upon its binding to ATP or DNA. Our results shed new light on the architecture and dynamics of this highly elaborate machinery designed for chromosome assembly.
State Debt Limits: How Many Are Enough?

There is a growing concern among state policy makers that unrestrained debt may exceed politically acceptable or financially sustainable levels of debt. Many states have established limits to restrict debt, but many of these limits are circumvented through issuing more complex and specialized bonds. In this article, we focus on the use of debt limits as an instrument to manage a state's debt in context of two key questions: (1) under what circumstances should a state consider multiple debt limits and (2) if multiple limits are established, what factors should be considered in setting such multiple limits. In addressing these issues, we consider the theoretical and conceptual issues associated with setting debt limits, we highlight current state debt limit policies, and discuss factors that appear to be influencing decisions to establish and set multiple limits.
p38γ activity is required for maintenance of slow skeletal muscle size.

Introduction p38γ kinase is highly enriched in skeletal muscle and is implicated in myotube formation. However, the activation status of p38γ in muscle is unclear.
The Drosophila Acetylcholine Receptor Subunit Dα5 Is Part of an α-Bungarotoxin Binding Acetylcholine Receptor

The central nervous system of Drosophila melanogaster contains an alpha-bungarotoxin-binding protein with the properties expected of a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor. This protein was purified 5800-fold from membranes prepared from Drosophila heads. The protein was solubilized with 1% Triton X-100 and 0.5 M sodium chloride and then purified using an alpha-cobratoxin column followed by a lentil lectin affinity column. The purified protein had a specific activity of 3.9 micromol of 125I-alpha-bungarotoxin binding sites/g of protein. The subunit composition of the purified receptor was determined by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. This subunit profile was identical with that revealed by in situ labeling of the membrane-bound protein using the photolyzable methyl-4-azidobenzoimidate derivative of 125I-alpha-bungarotoxin. The purified receptor reveals two different protein bands with molecular masses of 42 and 57 kDa. From sedimentation analysis of the purified protein complex in H2O and D2O and gel filtration, a mass of 270 kDa was calculated. The receptor has a s(20,w) of 9.4 and a Stoke's radius of 7.4 nm. The frictional coefficient was calculated to be 1.7 indicating a highly asymmetric protein complex compatible with a transmembrane protein forming an ion channel. The sequence of a peptide obtained after tryptic digestion of the 42-kDa protein allowed the specific identification of the Drosophila D alpha5 subunit by sequence comparison. A peptide-specific antibody raised against the D alpha5 subunit provides further evidence that this subunit is a component of an alpha-bungarotoxin binding nicotinic acetylcholine receptor from the central nervous system of Drosophila.
An example of an N14 hyperfragment

An event is described in which a K- meson comes to rest and reacts with an emulsion nucleus. From this interaction are emitted a pi meson and a short- range (2.0 plus or minus 0.5 mu ) hyperfragment. The hyperfragment decays by pi - emission. It is concluded that the hyperfragment is most likely /sub DELTA /N/sup 14/, with a DELTA binding energy of 11.7 plus or minus 7 Mev. Other possible identities of the hyperfragment are discussed. (T.F.H.)
Prevention of Left Ventricular Remodeling After Myocardial Infarction.

Postinfarction left ventricular remodeling begins early after acute myocardial infarction and may continue for months to years afterward. Early re-establishment of flow in the occluded artery is associated with smaller left ventricular cavity volumes and reduced remodeling. Acute percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or thrombolytic therapy (for patients more than 1 hour away from a catheterization facility) as early as possible after symptoms is critical. Late reperfusion (PCI more than 12 hours after infarction) may prove useful, and this will be determined by the results of ongoing clinical trials. Recurrent MI is reduced by antiplatelet agents (aspirin in most patients) and by 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors. Intravenous nitroglycerin may limit early (initial 24 hours) dilatation following infarction, but long-term use in asymptomatic patients is not efficacious. Betaadrenergic receptor antagonists and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors have independent efficacy in attenuating the early and late phases of remodeling. The combined use of a beta-blocker and an ACE inhibitor has greater efficacy than either agent alone, provided they are tolerated hemodynamically. Although angiotensin II receptor antagonists have similar efficacy to ACE inhibitors and have fewer side effects, the angiotensin II receptor blockers should be reserved for patients intolerant to ACE inhibitors. In patients requiring diuretic therapy, spironolactone is preferred because of its salutary properties regarding extracellular matrix remodeling, specifically in reducing fibrosis. Surgical revascularization with or without associated mitral valve repair is useful in selected patients with severe ischemic mitral regurgitation or hibernating myocardium. New therapies directed at modulating the remodeling process may focus on manipulating the components of the extracellular matrix to reduce the deleterious impact of this process.
E-Beam DKDP Light Valves

The principle of operation, structure, performance specifications, and numerous examples of the use of the electron-beam addressed potassium dideuterium phosphate (DKDP) light valve in optical processing are reviewed.
NUTRITIONAL STUDIES OF TWO RED ALGAE. I. GROWT RATE AS A FUNCTION OF NITROGEN SOURCE AND CONCENTRATION1

Gracilaria foliifera (Forsskal) Borgesen and Neoagardhiella bailiyi (Harvey ex Kiitzing) Wynne & Taylor were grown in continuous-flow culture under controlled environmental conditions in 15 liter experimental chambers. Growth rate was related to the source and concentration of nitrogen enrichment supplied to the plants, Growth rate appeared to follow saturation-type nutrient uptake kinetics for plants receiving ammonium, nitrate, urea of sewage effluent enrichments. Ammonium enrichment produced higher growth rates than nitrate of sewage enrichment. The lowest growth rates occurred in the chambers receiving unenriched seawater or urea. The low estimated constants (K) for growth were in the range of 0.2–0.4 (M N for all N enrichments examined. The low estimated values of K compare closely with those found for microalgae and indicate that both species possess the ability to utilize very low concentrations of N.
Estimation of the yield for coal liquid extracted by supercritical fluids

Abstract Supercritical fluid extraction of a coal liquid was carried out using benzene, toluene and p-xylene at various temperatures and pressures around the critical points of the solvents. The effects of extraction conditions on the extraction yield of coal liquid were investigated, and an empirical equation involving extraction yield as a function of reduced temperature and reduced density was obtained. The equation derived is useful in the estimation of extraction yields of coal liquids in supercritical fluid extraction processes.
The information content of security prices

Abstract The study derives a relationship between prices changes and earnings changes by expanding the information upon which earnings expectations are conditioned to include data other than prior earnings history. In particular, price is used as a surrogate for additional information available to market participants. This relationship provides an interpretation of the contemporaneous association between price changes and earnings changes previously observed by Ball and Brown (1968) and Beaver, Clarke and Wright (1979), among others. It also provides a basis for inferring from prices the earnings process and the expected future earnings as perceived by market participants. In doing so, it inverts the familiar price-earnings relationship and uses price as a predictor of earnings. The study differs from previous research which has examined the time series behavior of earnings based solely on previous earnings realizations. This approach can potentially lead to earnings forecasting models that are more accurate than the random walk with a drift that has been robust against challengers. In particular, the evidence indicates that security prices behave as if earnings are perceived to be dramatically different from a simple random walk process. Preliminary evidence also indicates that price-based forecasting models are more accurate than the random walk with a drift model.
A Meta-Analysis of Relationships between Ad-Evoked Feelings and Advertising Responses:

The authors conduct meta-analyses of relationships involving positive and negative ad-evoked feelings to determine (1) whether the effects of positive and negative feelings on advertising responses...
ELECTROCHROMIC MATERIALS AND DEVICES FOR ENERGY-EFFICIENT WINDOWS

Abstract Numerous inorganic and organic electrochromic materials are discussed in the context of developing a film-based optical shutter for a window application. It is possible electronically to alter a window's transmission and reflection properties by use of electrochromic thin films. This allows regulation of conductive and radiative heat transfer rates, with variable optical attenuation. As a result, an aperture can be optically and thermally managed, reducing space heating and cooling loads. The properties of transition metal oxides, such as WO 3 , MoO 3 , Ir 2 O 3 and V 2 O 5 are detailed. Organic systems such as heptyl viologen and polytungsten anion are reviewed. Also, intercalated structures are discussed. Various designs of working devices are outlined with emphasis on solid-state configurations. From this quantification, materials and devices with appropriate deposition techniques for window applications are detailed.
Histologic features of metastatic prostate cancer.

Abstract Prostate carcinomas begin as well-differentiated lesions. Before metastases occur these carcinomas dedifferentiate into moderately or poorly differentiated lesions and increase in size to at least 1 cm 3 . Well-differentiated lesions rarely metastasize and metastases are rarely well differentiated. Positive staging lymphadenectomies usually contain moderately differentiated metastases. Patients with moderately differentiated metastases have a statistically significant better survival than patients with poorly differentiated metastases. Metastases typically disseminate as they dedifferentiate, with stage D 1 metastases being moderately differentiated and stage D 2 metastases being poorly differentiated. "Prostate-specific" immunohis-tochemical techniques and serum prostate-specific antigen levels may be helpful in determining whether a particular metastases is from the prostate. However, metastases of uncertain origin should rarely, if ever, be attributed to the prostate without confirmation that the patient has a prostate carcinoma with histologic features capable of metastasizing.
Successful outpatient management of the nonpalpable intra-abdominal testis with staged Fowler-Stephens orchiopexy.

ABSTRACTPurpose: Previous reports of orchiopexies have shown an 85.9% success rate for staged Fowler-Stephens orchiopexy (FSO). We review our experience with nonpalpable testes (NPTs).Materials and Methods: A total of 119 patients with 128 NPTs were treated at our institution between 1994 and 2001. Atrophic testes or “nubbins” were removed. Once an intra-abdominal testis was identified the peritoneum was opened and firm traction was placed on the gonad. If feasible, primary orchiopexy was completed. Otherwise, staged Fowler-Stephens orchiopexy was performed.Results: Primary orchiopexy was performed in 28 testes in 27 patients without division of the spermatic vessels. An atrophic nubbin was removed in 45 patients. All children with bilateral NPTs had at least 1 viable intra-abdominal testis found at surgery. Staged FSO was performed in 55 testes in 47 children. The second stage was performed at a median of 3.5 months after initial ligation of the spermatic vessels. Median followup was 1 year and mean foll...
On the Basic Representation Theorem for Convex Domination of Measures

A direct, constructive proof is given for the basic representation theorem for convex domination of measures. The proof is given in the finitistic case (purely atomic measures with a finite number of atoms), and a simple argument is then given to extend this result to the general case, including both probability measures and finite Borel measures on infinite-dimensional spaces. The infinite-dimensional case follows quickly from the finite-dimensional case with the use of the approximation property.
IRES-Dependent Second Gene Expression Is Significantly Lower Than Cap-Dependent First Gene Expression in a Bicistronic Vector

The internal ribosome entry site (IRES) has been widely used to coexpress heterologous gene products by a message from a single promoter. However, little is known about the efficiency of IRES-dependent second gene expression in comparison with that of first gene expression. This study was undertaken to characterize the relative expression of IRES-dependent second gene in a bicistronic vector, which was derived from the 5′ untranslated regions of the encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV). IRES-dependent second gene expression was compared with cap-dependent first gene expression in several cultured cell lines and in mouse liver in vivo. The expression of the IRES-dependent second gene ranged from 6 to 100% (in most cases between 20 and 50%) that of the first gene. Second gene expression in a plasmid without the IRES was 0.1–0.8% (with some exceptions) that of the first gene. These findings have important implications for the use of IRES, i.e., care should be taken regarding the decreased capacity of IRES-dependent downstream gene expression as well as in determining which gene should be positioned as the first or second gene in a bicistronic vector.
Approximation in commutative Banach algebras with dense principal ideals, II

LetA be a commutative Banach algebra without non-zero idempotents. Then for everya∈A with\(\overline {aA} = A\) there isb∈A be such that every sequence {x k } inA with\(ax_k \mathop \to \limits^k b\) is unbounded. We give a simple proof of this result.
A Method for the Determination of Pentachlorophenol in Human Urine in Picogram Quantities

Pentachlorophenol (PCP), together with its salts, is used as a contact herbicide and defoliant, as a control against microbiological attack in the manufacture of cellulosic products, adhesives, and paints, as a fermentation inhibitor for non-edible materials, and as a control against termites, powder post beetles, and other wood-boring insects (1, 2, 3). This pesticide can be harmful to humans, especially to the occupationally exposed worker, and acute toxicity problems have occurred with the use of PCP formulations primarily through carelessness or failure to observe the manufacturers’ precautionary instructions for its use (4, 5, 6). No chronic toxicity data of any consequence exist on the human individual that may have been exposed to PCP over a long period of time, either through occupational use or through occasional use in the home to control insect infestation. Any effort to establish a relationship between long-term exposure of the individual to this pesticide and any apparent adverse physiological effects will necessitate the acquisition of analytical data on PCP residues in the human system.
A novel variability-based method for quasar selection: evidence for a rest-frame ∼54 d characteristic time-scale

We compare quasar-selection techniques based on their optical variability using data from the Catalina Real-time Transient Survey (CRTS). We introduce a new technique based on Slepian wavelet variance (SWV) that shows comparable or better performance to structure functions and damped random walk models but with fewer assumptions. Combining these methods with Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer mid-IR colours produces a highly efficient quasar-selection technique which we have validated spectroscopically. The SWV technique also identifies characteristic time-scales in a time series, and we find a characteristic rest-frame time-scale of ∼54 d, confirmed in the light curves of ∼18 000 quasars from CRTS, SDSS and MACHO data, and anticorrelated with absolute magnitude. This indicates a transition between a damped random walk and P(f) ∝ f^(−1/3) behaviours and is the first strong indication that a damped random walk model may be too simplistic to describe optical quasar variability.
Interior second derivative estimates for solutions to the linearized Monge-Ampère equation

Let Ω ⊂ Rn be a bounded convex domain and φ ∈ C(Ω) be a convex function such thatφ is sufficiently smooth on∂Ω and the Monge–Ampere measure det D2φ is bounded away from zero and infinity in Ω. The corresponding linearized Monge–Ampere equation is trace(ΦD2u) = f , where Φ := det D2φ (D2φ)−1 is the matrix of cofactors of D2φ. We prove a conjecture in [GT] about the relationship between Lp estimates for D2u and the closeness between det D2φ and one. As a consequence, we obtain interior W2,p estimates for solutions to such equation whenever the measure det D2φ is given by a continuous density and the function f belongs to Lq(Ω) for some q > max {p,n}.
Dedicated breast CT: radiation dose for circle-plus-line trajectory.

Purpose: Dedicated breast CT prototypes used in clinical investigations utilize single circular source trajectory and cone-beam geometry with flat-panel detectors that do not satisfy data-sufficiency conditions and could lead to cone beam artifacts. Hence, this work investigated the glandular dose characteristics of a circle-plus-line trajectory that fulfills data-sufficiency conditions for image reconstruction in dedicated breast CT. Methods: Monte Carlo-based computer simulations were performed using the GEANT4 toolkit and was validated with previously reported normalized glandular dose coefficients for one prototype breast CT system. Upon validation, Monte Carlo simulations were performed to determine the normalized glandular dose coefficients as a function of x-ray source position along the line scan. The source-to-axis of rotation distance and the source-to-detector distance were maintained constant at 65 and 100 cm, respectively, in all simulations. The ratio of the normalized glandular dose coefficient at each source position along the line scan to that for the circular scan, defined as relative normalized glandular dose coefficient (RD{sub g}N), was studied by varying the diameter of the breast at the chest wall, chest-wall to nipple distance, skin thickness, x-ray beam energy, and glandular fraction of the breast. Results: The RD{sub g}N metric when stated as a function of sourcemore » position along the line scan, relative to the maximum length of line scan needed for data sufficiency, was found to be minimally dependent on breast diameter, chest-wall to nipple distance, skin thickness, glandular fraction, and x-ray photon energy. This observation facilitates easy estimation of the average glandular dose of the line scan. Polynomial fit equations for computing the RD{sub g}N and hence the average glandular dose are provided. Conclusions: For a breast CT system that acquires 300-500 projections over 2{pi} for the circular scan, the addition of a line trajectory with equal source spacing and constant x-ray beam quality (kVp and HVL) and mAs matched to the circular scan, will result in less than 0.18% increase in average glandular dose to the breast per projection along the line scan.« less
Effectiveness of somatostatin in regulating pancreatic splenic lobe hormone secretion following 99% pancreatectomy in adult chickens.

Abstract In vivo studies were carried out in adult chickens in an attempt to evaluate the effectiveness of somatostatin (SRIF) in regulating hormone secretion from the splenic pancreatic lobe after 99% of the pancreatic mass was surgically ablated. Sixteen days after either sham operation or 99% pancreatectomy, birds were infused iv with SRIF (420 ng/min) alone and then glucose (59 mg/Kg/min) was superimposed on the infusate, or birds were infused iv with glucose alone and then SRIF was superimposed on the infusate. Serial blood samples were taken during the 16-day postoperative period and also at regular intervals during the 75-min observation period. Plasma was analyzed for glucose, insulin (IRI), glucagon (IRG), pancreatic polypeptide (IRAPP), and somatostatin (IRSRIF). Careful standardization of the SRIF radioimmunoassay, as well as analysis of the molecular form of circulating SRIF, indicated that “true” SRIF levels were being estimated in plasma of both groups of chickens. Normal-fed chickens have plasma SRIF levels of 1.12 ± 0.07 ng/ml which increases 16 days after 99% pancreatectomy to 2.39 ± 0.15 ng/ml plasma. The latter decreases by 55% with an overnight fast. Glucose infusion, superimposed upon a preexisting SRIF infusion in adult chickens, did not evoke an IRI response in the 99% depancreatized birds equal to that observed in sham-op controls. Although a full SRIF dose-response curve was not generated, the glucose data strongly suggest a reduced sensitivity of insulin-secreting cells to SRIF in pancreoprivic birds. Both bird groups were equally—and markedly—sensitive to the IRG-depressant effects of SRIF; in contrast, the depancreatized chickens were significantly more resistant to the APP-inhibitory effects of SRIF when compared to the sham-op control birds. Thus, 16 days after partial pancreatectomy, the hormone-release mechanisms appeared altered for IRI and IRAPP in response to SRIF. Data obtained when glucose infusions preceded SRIF infusions indicated that A-cell release of glucagon was much more sensitive to glucose (as a depression) in the partially depancreatized birds than in control birds. These same birds were significantly less responsive to the glucose-depressant effect on plasma APP levels. Thus, it appears that 99% pancreatectomy increases the sensitivity of the SRIF, IRI, and IRG release mechanisms in response to glucose 16 days after surgery. The insulin-to-glucagon (I/G) molar ratios indicative of metabolic anabolism can still be achieved by nutrients 16 days after partial pancreatectomy. It is suggested that SRIF is intimately involved in the “fine tuning” of the I/G molar ratio in 99% depancreatized chickens. Whether the sensitivity alterations observed herein are reflective of receptor or postreceptor events, and whether these events take place within the splenic lobe remnant or at extrapancreatic sites, are yet to be elucidated.
Breaking the rules and making the rules: Evasion, avoidance, and policy reform

Rule evasion and avoidance can have a significant impact on policy outcomes, and therefore on the design, implementation, and enforcement of policies. The purposes of this paper is to assess the causes and consequences of evasion and avoidance in general settings, including their implications for policy reform. Evasion of rules often serves a socially useful role, and can promote efficient policies. Small-scale evasion typically provokes one of three responses: it is either effectively ignored, enforcement is increased, or the rule is revised. Large-scale evasion, alternatively, tends to meet with major policy shifts. Avoidance and evasion frequently temper the anticipated impacts of policy reforms, but are unlikely to render reform futile. Indeed, ongoing processes of reform might be required to maintain effective policies.
Variations in physician practice and covert rationing.

The use of recent research on variations in medical practice to promote competitive market oriented cost containment strategies is critically examined. Research demonstrating widespread variations in physician practices for similar patient populations undermines the medical profession's claims about the scientific objectivity of medical practice and indicates the existence of widespread waste and inappropriate utilization of health care resources. Cost containment programs which rely on market-based care avoidance incentives, such as Medicare prospective payment or cost sharing plans, attempt to impact medical practice variations by creating economic barriers between doctor and patient. An alternative interpretation of research on practice variations is presented, emphasizing containing costs while improving quality of care and achieving greater equity through planning and regulation of medical supply factors.
Formation of macrosegregation by multicomponent thermosolutal convection during the solidification of steel

The formation of macrosegregation by multicomponent thermosolutal convection during the solidification of steel is simulated by simultaneously solving macroscopic mass, momentum, energy, and species conservation equations with full coupling of the temperature and concentrations through thermodynamic equilibrium at the solid/liquid interface. The flow field, solid fraction evolution, and macrosegregation patterns for four cases are presented. The results show both the formation of channel segregates and the formation of islands of mush surrounded by bulk melt. In examining the solidification of a ten-element steel, the global extent of macrosegregation of an element is found to be linearly dependent on its partition coefficient (more severe segregation for small partition coefficient), although such scaling is not possible locally. Results for the solidification of a binary Fe-C alloy (with the same carbon content as the ten-element alloy) are similar to those for the ten-element alloy due solely to the large contribution of carbon to buoyancy driven flow in the ten-element steel chosen for study. While including only those elements that make significant contributions to buoyancy driven flow reproduces the global extent of macrosegregation seen in the ten-element alloy, local differences in the predictions are visible. Finally, comparison of results for the solidification of the same ten-element steel using two different sets of data to describe the partition coefficients and change in liquidus temperature with concentration of the elements shows completely opposite behavior,i.e., upward flow through the mushy zone for one case and downward flow for the other. Thus, the need to have accurate phase-equilibrium data when modeling multicomponent macrosegregation is illustrated. Together, the results give an indication of what areas require more careful examination if accurate modeling of multicomponent solidification is to be accomplished.
Optical constants of ice in the infrared

The normal-incidence spectral reflectance of ice at −7° C has been measured in the range 300–5000 cm−1. A Kramers–Kronig phase-shift analysis of the measured spectral reflectance has been employed to provide values of the real and imaginary parts of the refractive index. The resulting values of these optical constants are suitable for use in Mie-theory computations of scattering by ice particles in planetary atmospheres. The optical constants of ice at −7° C are compared in detail with those of liquid water at several temperatures and with those recently determined for ice at −170° C.
T4 AsiA blocks DNA recognition by remodeling σ70 region 4

Bacteriophage T4 AsiA is a versatile transcription factor capable of inhibiting host gene expression as an ‘anti-σ′ factor while simultaneously promoting gene-specific expression of T4 middle genes in conjunction with T4 MotA. To accomplish this task, AsiA engages conserved region 4 of Eschericia coli σ70, blocking recognition of most host promoters by sequestering the DNA-binding surface at the AsiA/σ70 interface. The three-dimensional structure of an AsiA/region 4 complex reveals that the C-terminal α helix of region 4 is unstructured, while four other helices adopt a completely different conformation relative to the canonical structure of unbound region 4. That AsiA induces, rather than merely stabilizes, this rearrangement can be realized by comparison to the homologous structures of region 4 solved in a variety of contexts, including the structure of Thermotoga maritima σA region 4 described herein. AsiA simultaneously occupies the surface of region 4 that ordinarily contacts core RNA polymerase (RNAP), suggesting that an AsiA-bound σ70 may also undergo conformational changes in the context of the RNAP holoenzyme.
Hydrogenation of hexanal over sulfided Ni-Mo/γ-Al2O3 catalysts

Abstract Hydrogenation of hexanal to hexanol was studied over sulfided Ni-Mo catalysts supported on γ-Al2O3. Characterizations of the oxide and sulfide forms of the catalysts were performed using XRD, XPS, TPD, DRIFTS, and TEM/EDX techniques. The relationship between the molybdena surface coverage and the density of surface hydroxyl groups and their correlation with CO2 adsorption sites have been investigated. A strong correlation was observed between the selectivity of the catalysts towards heavy products, such as dimers, trimers and acetals and CO2 adsorption sites. The water resistance of the catalyst was also examined by keeping the catalyst on stream for 300 h. Post-reaction characterization of the catalysts performed using XPS technique showed partial oxidation of Mo sites and preferential loss of Ni from the surface.
Transition of care in congenital heart disease from pediatrics to adulthood

Improvement in surgical techniques, anesthesia, and perioperative care has resulted in the majority of children born with congenital heart defects surviving into adulthood with a normal or near-normal quality of life. A careful transition from pediatric to adult care providers is important to avoid issues related to loss of continuity of care and any undue financial or psychological burdens to the patients and their families. The patients, their families, and the health care providers are faced with many challenges during this transition process that can be optimized and overcome by education about the heart defects and a team approach with clear lines of communication. This review addresses the challenges related to the transition of care from pediatrics to adults and provides the necessary recommendations to ensure a smooth transition process.
From market to market: Bioprospecting's idioms of inclusion

In this article I explore how "community" and its foil, the (urban) market, provide competing models for the market-mediated modes of inclusion and exclusion on offer through bioprospecting agreements. Focusing on the collecting strategies of Mexican scientists implementing one such agreement, I show how community and market inform prospecting participants' ideas not just about (re)distributing benefits but also about managing the political liabilities now haunting corporate resource extraction in the South [bioprospecting, anthropology of science, Mexico, Latin America, globalization, intellectual property, indigenous rights]
A Novel System Improves Preservation of Osteochondral Allografts

Background Osteochondral allografting is an option for successful treatment of large articular cartilage defects. Use of osteochondral allografting is limited by graft availability, often because of loss of chondrocyte viability during storage.
Use of oxygen‐permeable silicone rubber pouches for growing mass cultures of bacteria

Growth of most bacteria often involves the use of expensive incubated shaker systems. In this report, oxygen-permeable silicone rubber pouches, with oxygen permeability over 100 times higher than other polymers, were employed for growing bacterial cultures. With little, if any, agitation oxygen-permeable silicone rubber pouches produced bacterial growth rates equivalent to growth rates obtained in shaker flasks. The silicone rubber pouch described has a glass cuvette integrated into its design that permits readings of bacterial density without opening the pouch. One can sterilize and store powdered bacterial culture medium in silicone rubber pouches; therefore, bacterial cultures can be initiated by simply adding water and bacteria.
The Secular Transition: The Worldwide Growth of Mormons, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Seventh-day Adventists

A question that continues to attract researchers in the sociology of religion is what factors lead to religious growth. This article examines three well-known Christian religious groups that share many characteristics (i.e., supply-side factors): Mormonism, Jehovah's Witnesses, and Seventh-day Adventists. Membership data from these groups were gathered from 1960 through 2006 for most countries around the world. Membership growth rates were analyzed while controlling for country-level characteristics (i.e., demand-side factors). The results of this analysis indicate that both supply- and demand-side factors are important in determining growth. The strongest predictors of growth are: growth momentum in a country, the level of economic development, and several country-level characteristics. We conclude that socioeconomic development of countries ultimately leads to a secular transition, curtailing the growth of these religious groups.
Upconverting phosphors as reporters for immunoassay

We discuss the capabilities of novel reporters which efficiently upconvert near infrared light and considerations for application of these reporters to immunoassay.