cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Midlatitude Cirrus Clouds Derived from Hurricane Nora: A Case Study with Implications for Ice Crystal Nucleation and Shape

Hurricane Nora traveled up the Bala Peninsula coast in the unusually warm El Nino waters of September 1997, until rapidly decaying as it approached Southern California on 24 September. The anvil cirrus blowoff from the final surge of tropical convection became embedded in subtropical flow that advected the cirrus across the western US, where it was studied from the Facility for Atmospheric Remote Sensing (FARS) in Salt Lake City, Utah. A day later, the cirrus shield remnants were redirected southward by midlatitude circulations into the Southern Great Plains, providing a case study opportunity for the research aircraft and ground-based remote sensors assembled at the Clouds and Radiation Testbed (CART) site in northern Oklahoma. Using these comprehensive resources and new remote sensing cloud retrieval algorithms, the microphysical and radiative cloud properties of this unusual cirrus event are uniquely characterized. Importantly, at both the FARS and CART sites the cirrus generated spectacular optical displays, which acted as a tracer for the hurricane cirrus, despite the limited lifetimes of individual ice crystals. Lidar polarization data indicate widespread regions of uniform ice plate orientations, and in situ particle masticator data show a preponderance of pristine, solid hexagonal plates and columns. It is suggested that these unusual aspects are the result of the mode of cirrus particle nucleation, presumably involving the lofting of sea-salt nuclei in thunderstorm updrafts into the upper troposphere. This created a reservoir of haze particles that continued to produce halide-saltcontaminated ice crystals during the extended period of cirrus cloud maintenance. The reference that marine microliters are embedded in the replicas of ice crystals collected over the CART site points to the longevity of marine effects. Various nucleation scenarios proposed for cirrus clouds based on this and other studies, and the implications for understanding cirrus radiative properties or a global scale, are discussed.
Morphological Feature Quantification of Colonic Crypt Pattern using Microscope Integrated OCT Scanner

There is a close correlation between colonic crypt morphological patterns and histopathological diagnosis. We have conducted an in vitro colonic tissue study to quantify the morphological features of crypts using our microscope-integrated OCT scanner.
Zinc modulates GABAB binding in rat brain

The effects of ZnCl2 on [3H]GABA binding to GABAA and GABAB binding sites were investigated using receptor autoradiography. At concentrations exceeding 100 μM, zinc non-competitively inhibited GABAB binding in a dose dependent fashion. GABAA binding was not inhibited significantly by zinc eliminating the possibility of a non-specific effect of zinc. Increased calcium concentrations up to 10 MM enhanced total GABAB binding but did not prevent zinc induced inhibition of GABAB binding, indicating a separate site of action for these cations at the GABAB binding site. In some regions, zinc modulates GABAB binding in a biphasic manner as concentrations of 10–100 μM zinc significantly enhanced GABAB binding in the hippocampus and the molecular layer of the cerebellum but not in the thalamus. These results provide further evidence for a neuromodulatory role for zinc in the central nervous system.
Some formal properties of stratified feature grammars

In this paper, we investigate the formal expressive properties of Stratified Feature Grammar (SFG), a new logic-based linguistic framework motivated by relational grammar and metagraph grammar, as well as by Kasper-Rounds logic. The driving force behind SFG is the generalization of the conceptfeature from an unanalyzable atomic one to a sequence of so-called R-signs. The linguistic interpretation of thesestratified features is that each R-sign in such a sequence denotes a primitive grammatical relation such as subject or direct object in different syntactic “strata”. This generalization permits the specification of a rigorous feature-structure-based formalism for natural-language grammars based on the view that syntax is “multistratal” and “relational”. The introduction of stratified features leads to several other innovations, two of which might have utility in other frameworks. One is the idea of imposing a partial order on features. The other is the concept of(data) justification: essentially, this is a stipulation that for an S-graph to be well-formed with respect to some grammarG it must, in addition to satisfying the rules ofG, have each of its “core” data (each feature occurrence, each node-label occurrence and each instance of so-called structure-sharing) justified in a formally precise manner by some rule of Justification ensures that. Justification ensures that satisfying S-graphs do not have more structure than absolutely necessary and so makes it appealing to a notion of “minimal model” otiose. Justification plays a key role in a number of our proofs. The formal results presented here include the following. First, it is proved that in the unrestricted SFG framework, every type 0 (r.e.) language is generated by some SFG. Then, we restrict the framework to so-calledbounded SFG with two linguistically motivated principles: Lexical Anchoring and Boundedness. Anchoring requires, in essence, that each core datum of an S-graph be justified by aword in its yield. Boundedness insures that S-graph features are short. Although these restrictions together put the class of bounded SFG languages well within the class of recursive languages, we go on to demonstrate that the recognition problem for bounded SFG is NP-hard. Further, we establish that a bounded SFG language need not be semi-linear. On the matter of upper bounds, we show that every bounded SFL can be recognized by a nondeterministic Turing machine inn logn space and polynomial time and that the recognition problem for bounded SFL's is NP-complete.
De novo protein sequence analysis of Macaca mulatta

Background Macaca mulatta is one of the most utilized non-human primate species in biomedical research offering unique behavioral, neuroanatomical, and neurobiochemcial similarities to humans. This makes it a unique organism to model various diseases such as psychiatric and neurodegenerative illnesses while also providing insight into the complexities of the primate brain. A major obstacle in utilizing rhesus monkey models for human disease is the paucity of protein annotations for this species (~42,000 protein annotations) compared to 330,210 protein annotations for humans. The lack of available information limits the use of rhesus monkey for proteomic scale studies which rely heavily on database searches for protein identification. While characterization of proteins of interest from Macaca mulatta using the standard database search engines (e.g., MASCOT) can be accomplished, searches must be performed using a 'broad species database' which does not provide optimal confidence in protein annotation. Therefore, it becomes necessary to determine partial or complete amino acid sequences using either manual or automated de novo peptide sequence analysis methods.
Design considerations for rotating laminated metal-matrix-composite shafts

A logical step in the application of fiber-reinforced composites is to take advantage of their light-weight/high-strength potential and replace traditional monolithic shaft designs with composite materials. In the case of aircraft engine shafts where the high-temperature environment excludes the use of most traditional materials, a high-strength titanium alloy is recommended. The focus of this paper is the evaluation of Ti-21S monolithic and SiC/Ti-21S composite shafts under various loadings and damage conditions. This is accomplished through the development of a fully inelastic axisymmetric generalized plane-strain model that incorporates the generalized method of cells (GMC) micromechanics model (that includes the capability of fiber/matrix debond), as well as the effects from a rotational body force. The inelastic analysis is performed through the method of successive elastic solutions. In this study, the elastic response of homogeneous and variously oriented fiber-reinforced shafts are compared in order to demonstrate the possible advantages of composite design. The greatest differences are observed in the circumferential stress and strain in the circumferentially wound (90°) shaft, with savings of as much as 11% in circumferential stress and 53% in circumferential strain compared to that of a similarly loaded homogeneous shaft. For the composite shafts subject to both inelastic effects and debond, the 90° strong and weak bond shafts offer the only consistent improvement over traditional monolithic designs. The interaction between any other fiber orientation and inelasticity/debond damage requires careful consideration of individual designs to create a reliable shaft. This paper demonstrates the feasibility of using lighter-weight/stronger composite shafts, as well as the complexity of the design problem, along with the careful consideration of practicality that must be taken prior to the abandonment of traditional monolithic designs in highly critical applications.
A simple technique for reconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament using a quadriceps tendon graft

Numerous surgical procedures have been described for the treatment of recurrent patellar dislocation. Studies have shown that the primary pathoanatomy associated with lateral patellar dislocation is injury to the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL), which is the major soft-tissue restraint to lateral patellar translation. Recently, various procedures have been described that address the medial ligamentous injury inherent to lateral patellar dislocation. We present a simple technique for MPFL reconstruction using a quadriceps tendon graft.
Synchronization of Diffusively-Connected Nonlinear Systems: Results Based on Contractions with Respect to General Norms

Contraction theory provides an elegant way to analyze the behavior of certain nonlinear dynamical systems. In this paper, we discuss the application of contraction to synchronization of diffusively interconnected components described by nonlinear differential equations. We provide estimates of convergence of the difference in states between components, in the cases of line, complete, and star graphs, and Cartesian products of such graphs. We base our approach on contraction theory, using matrix measures derived from norms that are not induced by inner products. Such norms are the most appropriate in many applications, but proofs cannot rely upon Lyapunov-like linear matrix inequalities, and different techniques, such as the use of the Perron-Frobenious Theorem in the cases of $L^1$ or $L^{\infty }$ norms, must be introduced.
Preparation and evaluation of inorganic anion-exchange sorbents not based on silica.

Abstract The use of alternate macroporous (greater than 200 A) inorganic support materials in the preparation of pellicular anion-exchange packings was explored. Alumina, magnesia, titania, and a zirconia-coated silica were chosen for comparison with silica. The stationary phase attached to the support surfaces was an adsorbed polyethyleneimine, crosslinked with 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether. Packing materials were characterized by static elemental analyses, chromatographic retention, static loading capacity and pH stability. Titania, alumina, and zirconyl-clad silica packings were found to be substantially more stable under alkaline conditions than silica-based materials. The data show that the stationary phase was successfully bonded in all cases and functioned in anion-exchange chromatography. When the surface area and pore diameter of these alternate materials is equivalent to silica, there is little difference in chromatogrpahic properties.
Indium-III: a new radionuclide label for studying human platelet kinetics.

Summary. Indium-III, when complexed with 8-hydroxyquinoline (oxine), has been employed as a radioactive platelet label for thrombus imaging in animals and man. The short half-life (2.8 d) and high yield of gamma photons of 111In make it ideal for in vitro counting and external imaging. To evaluate its suitability for studies of platelet turnover in man, platelet kinetic studies were carried out on 10 healthy volunteers using 111In-and 51Cr-platelets concurrently. For 111In labelling, platelets were harvested by differential centrifugation from 43 ml of whole blood drawn into acid-citrate dextrose (ACD) solution. The platelets were washed and suspended in a mixture of ACD and isotonic saline and then incubated with 111In-oxine, rewashed, and suspended in plasma for reinfusion. 51Cr labelling was performed using standard methods. Mean labelling efficiency was 73% with 111In and 6.5% with 51Cr. In vitro studies demonstrated minimal release, elution, and reutilization of the 111In label. There was no significant difference in the aggregation response of 111In- and 51Cr-platelets to ADP and collagen. The in vivo recovery of 111In-platelets was approximately 50% greater than that of 51Cr-platelets whereas the platelet life spans were similar. These results indicate that 111In labelled platelets may be useful for thrombokinetic studies in man. The new method offers the advantages of reduced blood requirements, higher labelling efficiency, and the ability to perform external imaging of platelet distribution in vivo.
Surgical treatment of locally progressive stage IIIB carcinoma of the cervix: use of the inverted "T" incision.

Abstract Stage III carcinoma of the cervix is treated usually, and often effectively, with the combination of radiation and chemotherapy. For tumors locally recurring, without evidence of distant lymphatic or hematogenous spread, the option of pelvic exenteration rises. The described surgical technique derives from soft tissue sarcoma pelvic surgery. It is a lower midline incision extending transversely at its lower end (“reverse T”), which improves the exposure and hence resectability of some of these tumors.
Towards the realization of a MEMS-based photoacoustic chemical sensor using ultracompact EC-QCL (SpriteIR)

Traditionally, chemical sensing platforms have been hampered by the opposing concerns of maximizing sensor capability while minimizing package size. Current sensors, although reasonably sized, are geared to more classical chemical threats, and the ability to expand their capabilities to a broader range of emerging threats is uncertain. Recently, photoacoustic spectroscopy, employed in a sensor format, has shown enormous potential to address these ever-changing threats, while maintaining a compact sensor design. The objective of the present work is to demonstrate the detection capability of a microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)-based photoacoustic chemical sensor using SpriteIR, an ultracompact external cavity quantum cascade laser (EC-QCL).
Predictive value of clinical factors for successful endoscopic correction of primary vesicoureteral reflux grades III–IV

Abstract Objective To evaluate the clinical factors that influence the outcome of endoscopically treated primary grade III and IV vesicoureteral reflux (VUR). Materials and methods Excluding secondary VUR and patients with incomplete follow up, a retrospective and prospective cohort observational study was performed on 90 children (130 renal units) with primary grade III or IV reflux treated endoscopically with Polytef or Macroplastique® from March 1997 to January 2004. All patients underwent voiding cystourethrography (or galactose-based sonocystourethrography), dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) scan, renal ultrasound and clinical exploration of micturition. Data were collected on age, gender, urinary tract infection (UTI), bilaterality, renal scarring, voiding dysfunction, and success rate. A new factor was defined, ureteral dilatation of the renal unit (not related to grade according to findings of pelvi-calyceal images), and graded by a single pediatric urologist blinded to its International Classification grade. Results The male-to-female ratio of patients was 2.91. Reflux was bilateral in 44.4%. There was UTI at presentation in 64 cases, and 21 newborns had been prenatally diagnosed (ratio M/F 5.2:1). We found a strong relation between the incidence of renal scarring at presentation and voiding dysfunction (P Conclusions The relationship between success rate of endoscopic treatment and grade of ureteral dilatation is demonstrated. Other factors significantly involved in the resolution of VUR are voiding dysfunctional syndrome, bilateralism of reflux, and scarring on initial DMSA. Gender, age, number of infections during follow up and prenatal diagnosis do not influence the outcome of endoscopic treatment.
Qualitatively significant effects of electron correlation

Some examples are given for which correlation effects make qualitative differences in molecular structure and properties.
Photometric standard stars for L' and M filter bands

L' (3.8 microns) and M (4.9 microns) photometry of 20 primary and 21 secondary standard stars that are sufficiently faint for large telescope observation is presented. The estimated uncertainties in the magnitudes of the primary standards are 0.01 at L', 0.02 at M, and 0.015 for the L'-M color. A color transformation between the present L' magnitudes and the L magnitudes of Elias et al. (1982) is obtained and found to be near agreement with that predicted for black-bodies.
Binford versus Childe: What makes an archaeologist influential?

Abstract This article asks whether Lewis Binford or V. Gordon Childe was the most influential archaeologist of the twentieth century. This is, quite frankly, a question that has no objective answer, but asking it leads us to consider what makes an archaeologist influential. The answer lies in knowing the field widely and well, in thinking about big questions, and in providing what the field needs, in its current historical condition, to answer those big questions.
Particle production from soft processes

Relativistic heavy-ion collisions provide a unique environment to study matter under extreme conditions of high temperature andenergy density. In the soft pT region (< 2 GeV/c) particle production is governed by the bulk properties (e.g. hydrodynamic pressure, freeze-out temperature) of the collisions.Total particle yields as well as their distributions in phase space are strongly dependent on these properties. These bulk properties will be discussed and we will compare our heavy-ion results to measurements in the p+p reference system, where multiparticle processes such as recombination and rescattering are generally thought to be negligible. However, we will show evidence for p+ p- rescattering interactions even in p+p collisions.
A new era of GPCR structural and chemical biology.

G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) are versatile molecular machines that regulate the majority of physiological responses to chemically diverse hormones and neurotransmitters. Recent breakthroughs in structural studies have advanced our understanding of GPCR signaling, particularly the selectivity of ligand recognition and receptor activation of G proteins.
User creativity, governance, and the new media: An introduction to the First Monday special issue

In this special issue, we present a multi-disciplinary perspective of the emergence of user creativity in new media. The papers were written by researchers in anthropology, sociology, media studies, law, computer science, and management studies. The authors examine the roles of users and commercial actors in the new media, and help answer critical questions on intellectual property, ethics, practice, and governance. Taken together, the papers expose a complex, mutable, creative ecology influencing new media product development and practice.
Therapeutic effect of a radiolabeled monoclonal antibody on human ovarian cancer xenograft in nude mice

Abstract The therapeutic value of 131 I-OC125, a radiolabeled monoclonal antibody directed against a human ovarian tumor associated antigen CA125, was examined in an ascites forming intraperitoneal human ovarian carcinoma nude mouse model. Nude mice were injected intraperitoneally with NIH:OVCAR3 cells. Twenty-one days after tumor transplantation, groups of animals were injected intra-peritoneally as follows: Group 1 with 200 μCi of 131 I-OC125 ( n = 20), Group 2 with 200 μCi of 131 I ( n = 17), Group 3 with 200 μCi of 131 I-IgG ( n = 21), Group 4 with 60 μg of OC125 ( n = 18) and Group 5 was left untreated ( n = 21). Survival of the tumor-bearing animals was used as the endpoint of the experiment. Mean survivals were found to be 52 ± 18 days for the 131 I-OC125 group, 53 ± 16 days for the 131 I-IgG group, 49 ± 13 days for the 131 I group, 47 ± 24 days for the OC125 group and 47 ± 15 days for the untreated control. These results would indicate no therapeutic advantage of 131 I-OC125 over controls in this animal model. However, other approaches using single as well as multiple radiolabeled monoclonal antibodies need to be tested in this model in order to definitely establish the efficacy of this treatment modality.
A Review of Size at Maturity in Male Tanner (Chionoecetes bairdi) and King (Paralithodes camtschaticus) Crabs and the Methods Used to Determine Maturity

This paper reviews existing studies on the size of sexual maturity for male Tanner or snow crab ( Chionoecetes bairdi ), a brachyuran, and the anomuran red king crab ( Paralithodes camtschaticus ). In this report the term sexual maturity is denned as the ability to reproduce. A variety of indirect and direct methods that have been used to determine maturity are reviewed. Examining the vas deferens for the presence of spermatophores was useful in determining the size at which males first become mature. Breeding experiments in the laboratory demonstrated that most males, from both species, that produced spermatophores could breed with soft-shelled mates. Males of both species can breed at smaller sizes than do females. Morphometric techniques based on reproductive tract weights and chela morphometry overestimated the sizes at which males mature in both species. Previous experiments for Tanner crab, which have internal fertilization, suggest small mature males can fertilize two to five females. Breeding experiments showed recently matured red king crab do not appear to be able to fertilize more than one female per breeding season, while males nearing harvestable size can fertilize more than one female. Breeding experiments and in situ observations of grasping pairs appear to be the most feasible methods for identifying male size at maturity for these species. The value of morphometric estimations for determining when males mature is questionable.
A Very-Wide-Band Balun Transformer for VHF and UHF

A transformer is described which may be used as a phase inverter, a differential transformer, or as a balun transformer. Practical models have been built which operate over more than two decades of frequency range with bandwidths approaching 1 kmc. Insertion loss in a typical transformer fluctuates between 1 and 2 db over the range of frequencies from 5 to 1000 mc. For successful operation the transformer depends upon the magnetic properties of a suitable ferrite core material and not upon the usual resonant lines or cavities commonly utilized with such devices [1]-[3]. The ferrites used are not of the low loss, UHF variety but rather are selected on the (approximate) criterion of yielding a high absolute value of permeability over the entire frequency range, and are typically of a class intended for use at much lower frequencies.
Privacy Algorithm for Airport Passenger Screening Portal

A novel personnel surveillance system has been developed for airport security to detect and identify threatening objects, which are concealed ont he human body. The main advantage of this system over conventional metal detectors is that non- metallic objects such as plastic explosives and plastic guns are detectable. This system is based on millimeter-wave array technology and a holographic imaging algorithm to provide surveillance images of objects hidden beneath clothing in near real-time. The privacy algorithm is based on image processing filters and artificial neural networks. The algorithm examines the millimeter-wave surveillance images to locate and segment the threats and place them on either a silhouette of the person or a wire-frame humanoid representation. In this way, all human features are removed from the final image and personal privacy is maintained. This system is ideally suited for mass transportation centers such as airport checkpoints that require high throughput rates. The system is currently under going evaluation. This paper reports on results from an earlier initial test of portions of the privacy algorithm that detect hidden plastic objects.© (2000) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Observation of angular correlation between subsequently emitted Auger electrons

In an exploratory feasibility study we have measured the angular correlation between Auger electrons that were emitted in a cascadelike decay process after resonant photoexcitation, using synchrotron radiation from the Brookhaven National Synchrotron Light Source. While the monochromator was tuned to the argon $1\stackrel{\ensuremath{\rightarrow}}{s}4p$ resonance (3203.5 eV) we recorded Ar $\mathrm{LMM}$ Auger electrons in coincidence with ${\mathrm{KL}}_{2,3}{L}_{2,3}{,KL}_{1}{L}_{2,3},$ and ${\mathrm{KL}}_{2,3}{M}_{1,2,3}$ Auger electrons. We found different nonisotropic angular correlations between distinct energy regions of the $\mathrm{LMM}$ group of Auger lines and the ${\mathrm{KL}}_{2,3}{L}_{2,3}$ Auger electrons, while for other kinetic energies the $\mathrm{LMM}$ Auger electrons exhibit isotropy. Because the $\mathrm{KLL}$ and $\mathrm{LMM}$ Auger energies are so different, we believe that the nonisotropic angular correlation observed is due to an alignment effect rather than a dynamical postcollision interaction effect.
CORRELATION OF MAGNETIC AND STRUCTURAL ANISOTROPY IN AMORPHOUS TB-FE VIA EXAFS

Using extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) we have measured a structural anisotropy between the in-plane and out-of-plane structure in amorphous Tb-Fe films. This anisotropy is manifested as a statistical preferrence for like pairs to orient in-plane and unlike pairs out-of-plane. The magnitude of this anisotropy correlates with the measured magnetic anisotropy energy as a function of the alloy composition, heat treatment, and substrate temperature. We present here details of the EXAFS data collection, analysis and modeling.
Hard Times and Innovative Theory

Desolation and Enlightenment: Political Knowledge after Total War, Totalitarianism, and the Holocaust By Ira Katznelson. New York: Columbia University Press, 2003. 208 pp., $27.50 (ISBN: 0-231-11194-0) That we live in strange and hard times has been an observed fact of life for anyone witnessing the twentieth century. In Desolation and Enlightenment , Ira Katznelson has written a rich and thoughtful overview of critical works in political inquiry and history that have attempted to understand these times—with their spectacles of total war, totalitarianism, and in particular the holocaust. Katznelson's guides are venerable, including primarily Karl Polanyi's (1944) The Great Transformation: The Political and Economic Origins of Our Times and Hannah Arendt's (1968) The Origins of Totalitarianism but also the work of a melange of great and near great scholars, such as David Truman, Harold Lasswell, Charles Lindblom, Robert Dahl, and Richard Hofstadter. The list is drawn in part from notables in Katznelson's academic circles. Hofstadter and Truman were his teachers when he was an undergraduate at Columbia University; as a junior faculty member, he attended Arendt's lectures at the New School, and so on. But the list also suggests a chart representing some of the main intellectual currents in twentieth-century Western political thought. As a result, Desolation and Enlightenment is a return to a time and place of great historical change and to some of the figures who tried to make sense of events that were nearly unintelligible to those who experienced or witnessed them. The challenges presented by these events are familiar by now in social theory. Both Polanyi and Arendt recognized that the version of evil endemic in the twentieth century was new and “previously unknown to us” (Arendt, quoted on p. 72). Moreover, it defeated many of the guiding principles and forms of social organization that had developed since …
General Population and Cancer Patient Norms for the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G)

Given the number of new cancer cases diagnosed each year and the increases in survival rates, the importance of having a clinically useful health-related quality of life (HRQOL) instrument has increased. The Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G) is one such instrument that has been used worldwide to assess HRQOL. Previously, the use of the FACT-G had been limited because of a lack of published normative data. Normative data are useful for consumers to place their results in an appropriate context by comparing their scores of individuals or group of individuals to a reference group. Here, we present normative data for the FACT-G for two reference groups: (a) a sample of the general U.S. adult population and (b) a large, heterogeneous sample of adult patients with cancer. In addition, we demonstrate various uses of the normative data.
Temporal evolution of the laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy spectrum of aluminum metal in different bath gases

The spectral emission of gas-phase aluminum and aluminum oxide was measured during and immediately after exposure of a bulk-aluminum sample to a laser-induced spark produced by a focused, pulsed laser beam (Nd:YAG, 10–ns pulse duration, 35 mJ/pulse, λ = 1064 nm). The spectral emission was measured as a function of time after the onset of the laser pulse, and it was also measured in different bath gases (air, nitrogen, oxygen, and helium)
Maintaining diversity in an ant community: modeling, extending, and testing the dominance-discovery trade-off.

Abstract: Ant communities often consist of many species with apparently similar niches. We present a mathematical model of the dominance‐discovery trade‐off, the trade‐off between the abilities to find and to control resources, showing that it can in principle facilitate the coexistence of large numbers of species. Baiting studies of dominance and discovery abilities in an ant community from the Chiricahua Mountains of Arizona indicate that real communities fail to fit the assumptions of the simple model in several ways: (1) dominance depends on the size of the food resource; (2) for some ants, dominance depends on the presence or absence of specialist parasitoids; (3) pairwise dominance is not an all‐or‐nothing trait; and (4) a consistent negative relationship between pairwise differences in per capita discovery rates and dominance can be detected for only one bait type. Extended models incorporating these factors successfully predict the coexistence of five of the six most abundant members of this commu...
Inefficient left ventricular inflows in patients with right ventricular apical pacing

Background: It remains to be clarified whether right ventricular apical pacing (RVAP) affects LV diastolic function. Methods: This study included 20 patients with a RV pacemaker implanted (age 58±13 y/o) and 20 age-matched healthy controls. Inflow pattern and pressure distribution within the LV were evaluated, using VFM. Apex to bese pressure gradient within the left ventricle was estimated from the color M mode data by solving the Euler equation, as previously established. Results: In 16 patients (80%) with RVAP, flow was directed toward the apex during the isovolumic relaxation period, but then it reversed toward the base and collided with inflow through the mitral valve during early diastole. These flow patterns reflected insufficient LV suction, with lower apex to base pressure gradient during early diastole, compared with normal controls (1.0±0.5 vs 2.5±1.0 mmHg, p<0.01). ![Figure][1] Figure 1 Conclusions: LV with RVAP exhibits inefficient LV inflows and suction. [1]: pending:yes
Effect of styrene–butadiene rubber latex on the chloride permeability and microstructure of Portland cement mortar

Abstract We evaluated the chloride permeability and microstructure of Portland cement mortar modified by styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) latex, using mortar samples with various polymer/cement (P/C) mass ratios. The incorporation of SBR improved the chloride penetration resistance along with the general ionic permeability of the mortar, while increasing its ionic transport resistance and decreasing its electric capacitance. These data suggest that admixing SBR led to denser and more refined microstructure of the cured cement mortar. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy images confirmed such improvements in the pore structure and the formation of an interpenetrating network structure of SBR and cement hydrate phases at relatively higher P/C ratios. Besides slightly reducing Portlandite content and mitigating carbonation with the increasing P/C ratio in mortar, SBR was also found to promote the formation of calcium aluminate trisulfate hydrate phases and facilitated chloride binding.
The optical constants of several atmospheric aerosol species: Ammonium sulfate, aluminum oxide, and sodium chloride

An investigation is conducted of problems which are related to a use of measured optical constants in the simulation of the optical constants of real atmospheric aerosols. The techniques of measuring optical constants are discussed, taking into account transmission measurements through homogeneous and inhomogeneous materials, the immersion of a material in a liquid of a known refractive index, the consideration of the minimum deviation angle of prism measurement, the interference of multiply reflected light, reflectivity measurements, and aspects of mathematical analysis. Graphs show the real and the imaginary part of the refractive index as a function of wavelength for aluminum oxide, NaCl, and ammonium sulfate. Tables are provided for the dispersion parameters and the optical constants.
Beta-adrenergic antagonist effects on a novel cognitive flexibility task in rodents

Previous work examining animal models of cognitive flexibility have focused on tasks where animals are required to shift between cues in order to reach a food reward from among a limited set of choices. Performance by nonhuman animals on these tasks, including reversal learning, intradimensional set-shifting, and extradimensional set-shifting, are affected by pharmacological action on serotonergic, dopaminergic, and alpha-adrenergic, but not beta-adrenergic receptors. However, beta-adrenergic antagonists, such as propranolol, are widely utilized for conditions such as test anxiety. Propranolol improves performance in humans during cognitive flexibility tasks where there is a broad set of potential solutions. The current investigation utilized a digging task where the rodent must develop a novel solution in order to obtain a reward. Similar to the effects observed in humans, propranolol improved performance on this task, while not affecting performance on set-shifting tasks, as with previous animal studies. This may allow future investigation of the neurobiological mechanism by which propranolol affects context-specific anxiety, and could provide insight into the neurobiology of creativity.
Reconstruction of malunited diaphyseal fractures of the forearm

The forearm is a complex anatomical and functional unit with unique osseous, soft tissue and articular relationships. Disruption of these important relations can have a significant impact, leading to pain, instability of the radio-ulnar articulation and reduced range of motion. The gold standard for treating forearm fractures in adults remains anatomic reduction, stable plate fixation and preservation of the surrounding blood supply. Failure to achieve these goals may lead to malunion, requiring reconstructive surgery, which can be technically challenging. In this review, we discuss the essential aspects of anatomy and pathomechanics, clinical and radiological assessment and the state of the art in pre-operative planning and deformity correction surgery.
Utilizing Social Support to Conserve the Fighting Strength: Important Considerations for Military Social Workers

This article is a continuation of a conference panel dialogue that focused on providing individualized, culturally responsible treatment of secondary traumatic stress (STS) for military social workers. Key aspects of the roles and responsibilities, professional and ethical challenges of military social workers and social work officers serve as focal points for understanding the importance of social support. This article discusses ways social support might help to moderate the impact of STS. The “buddy system” describes a culturally unique protective factor, which is a well‐known and effective type of social support utilized throughout the military. This article provides valuable information on how the “buddy system” can serve as a blueprint for managing STS experienced by military social workers. The article concludes with research, policy, and practice implications.
Characteristic energies in secondary electron spectra from Si(111) surfaces

Abstract The entire energy spectra of back-scattered electrons from clean, oxygen and Cu covered Si(111) surfaces were carefully investigated, and evidence of plasmon absorption by Auger electrons was obtained. Correlations between the Si Auger and characteristic loss spectra led to the conclusion that much of the Si Auger spectrum resulted from characteristic losses by 91 eV Auger electrons. Thin film Cu, ≲ 5 monolayers thick, deposited on Si showed no characteristics of a Cu single crystal. However, the Cu overlayer suppressed the higher order Si plasma loss peaks, presumably by reducing the penetration depth of the primary beam electrons into the substrate lattice.
Pharmacology and Therapeutic Use of Vitamin D and its Analogues

The term vitamin D is generally used to describe a number of chemically related compounds with common antirachitic properties, but which have differences in the rapidity of their action, the way they are produced in the body, and the conditions under which their results are optimal. Ergocalciferol, cholecalciferol, 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (calcifediol), dihydrotachysterol, 1 alpha-hydroxycholecalciferol (alfacalcidol), and 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol (calcitriol) are currently the most commonly used vitamin D metabolites. In man, cholecalciferol produced on the skin and the fraction obtained from the diet in the gastrointestinal tract are converted in the liver to 25-hydroxycholecalciferol and then in the kidney to 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol. The demonstration of these metabolic pathways has helped to elucidate the aetiology of such conditions a hepatobiliary osteodystrophy, drug-induced anticonvulsant osteomalacia, the hypocalcaemia of hypoparathyroidism and above all azotaemic osteodystrophy. In the therapy of azotaemic osteodystrophy, the period of 'vitamin D resistance' when large doses of vitamin D2 and D3 had to be used is now over, and these patients can be efficiently and successfully treated with almost physiological doses of 1 alpha-hydroxycholecalciferol and 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol. Attention to diet, calcium supplements and oral phosphate binders are also important. During repetitive haemodialysis, the above principles still hold true, but in some of these patients an osteomalacic syndrome resistant to 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol has been recognised. These patients readily become hypercalcaemic when given 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol and their fractures and osteomalacia do not improve. Aluminium intoxication, possibly related to the use of impure dialysis fluid, is currently thought to be the most likely explanation of this dialysis osteomalacic syndrome.
How to Utilize Relevance Vectors to Collect Required Data for Modeling Water Quality Constituents and Fine Sediment in Natural Systems: Case Study on Mud Lake, Idaho

AbstractThe development of monitoring programs for water quality and habitat assessment in surface waters is an ongoing challenge because of inherent difficulties in determining the effective spatial and temporal distribution of sites and trips. Recent advances in statistical learning theory, in which system characteristics are learned from data, point to the possibility of using the information content of data to shed light on monitoring results that provide sensitive and independent results. One of those techniques, multivariate relevance vector machines (MVRVM), creates as part of its algorithm subsets of a data set, called relevant vectors (RVs), that are most relevant for building an empirical model of a process, thereby revealing the information-rich portions of the data and potentially providing unambiguous information for management decision making. In this paper, we explore this concept in the context of a shallow lake, Mud Lake in SE Idaho, used as a sediment trap and as a wildlife refuge that i...
Novel data analysis methods to overcome cut point challenges and enable comprehensive assessment of antidrug binding activity in confirmatory assays.

Abstract Immunogenicity assessments in response to drug treatment are commonly performed using a tiered approach strategy. All samples are initially tested in a screening assay followed by the evaluation of the screened positive samples in a confirmatory assay. Percent inhibition of signal intensity by the competing unlabeled drug in a confirmatory assay is typically used to measure the specificity of antidrug binding activity in samples, and has been successfully applied to most immunogenicity assays. However, the percent inhibition approach may not be suitable in cases where broadly distributed and high percent inhibition values are observed in drug-naive subjects or when persistent operator-dependent differences in assay performance are encountered. Herein, we present the case studies faced with such challenges and provide appropriate solutions by introducing two novel data analysis methods: (1) Reference Delta, and (2) Reference Percent Inhibition, — in which relative-to-baseline signal inhibition is calculated for each sample. These novel methods significantly improve the confirmatory assay's ability to detect the samples positive for antidrug antibodies (ADA), especially when challenges are encountered using the traditional percent inhibition approach. Furthermore, both methods can be implemented in parallel with the percent inhibition method, enabling not only confirmation of ADA specificity, but also providing additional insights about the relevance of this antidrug binding activity to drug treatment.
PREPARATION, ISOLATION, AND CHARACTERIZATION OF COBALT (III) COMPLEXES DERIVED FROM A NEW LINEAR, FLEXIBLE PENTADENTATE LIGAND 1, 11-DIAMINO-3, 6, 9-TRITHIAUNDECANE

Abstract The reaction of bis(2-mercaptoethyl)sulfide with N-(β-bromoethyl)phthalimide followed by hydrolysis using hydrazine hydrate afforded 1,11-diamino-3,6,9-trithiaundecane, NH2CH2CH2 -S-CH2CH2 -S-CH2 CH2 -S-CH2-CH2 NH2, (QS). The preparations and interconversions of Cobalt(III) complexes of the type Co(QS)Xn+ where X=Cl−, Br−, N3 −, NO2 − and SCN− are presented and discussed. Considerations are presented supporting the αα geometry for this series of complexes.
Nitrate respiration associated with detrital aggregates in aerobic bottom waters of the abyssal NE Pacific

Abstract Rates of nitrate utilization in tube core respirometers (TCR) placed over aggregates on the seafloor at an abyssal site (Station M) in the eastern North Pacific Ocean increased at times of high particle flux. In the presence of aggregates, both oxygen and nitrate were used in respiration. The ratio of O2 : NO3 concentrations in ambient waters was 3.9, while O2 : NO3 utilization rates in TCR overlying and TCR aggregate pore waters were 2.6 and 0.6, respectively. We postulated that denitrification was occurring in microzones of the particle-rich oxygenated (135 μM) waters. To test this, nitrate respiration was measured aboard a ship in oxygen-minimum (∼26 μM) water supplemented with particulate matter collected by a surface net tow. Dissolved oxygen consumption occurred immediately, followed by nitrate utilization while oxygen was still present. Calculations from cell densities indicated 0.6 μM of the original 42 μM of nitrate was assimilated into bacterial biomass during 36 h of incubation, suggesting the major portion of the utilized nitrate was used in respiration. Nitrate utilization rates in the in situ incubation study and those of the shipboard experiment were 3.1 and 2.7 μM d-1, respectively. The results of the present studies suggest nitrate respiration occurs in microzones of aggregates in oxygenated bottom waters at times of high particle flux and causes some loss of fixed nitrogen.
Radiation therapy for glottic cancer using 6-MV photons

BACKGROUND It has been recommended that cobalt-60 or 4-MV photons be used when treating glottic cancer with radiation therapy. Underdosing may occur when using higher energy photons, particularly when the anterior commissure is involved. The authors report their experience using higher energy photons (6 MV) for the treatment of glottic cancer. METHODS Between January 1975 and July 1991, 73 patients with Tis, T1, T2, or T3 glottic tumors underwent radiation therapy with curative intent. Cobalt-60 or 4-MV photons were used to treat the cancers of 30 patients, and 6-MV photons were used to treat 43 patients. Clinical records were reviewed retrospectively to determine patterns of treatment failure, cancer deaths, and local tumor control in the 43 patients receiving treatment with 6-MV photons. Patients were followed until death or for a minimum of two years. RESULTS Treatment failures were: local recurrence, one patient; local recurrence and distant metastasis, one patient; delayed neck metastasis, two patients; and delayed neck metastasis with distant metastasis, one patient. Three patients who had treatment failure are alive and free of cancer after salvage treatment. Two patients died of neck and distant metastases. The 2-year initial local tumor control rate was 94.8%. CONCLUSIONS Glottic cancer can be treated successfully with 6-MV photons. Local tumor control is similar to that reported using cobalt-60 or 4-MV photons. Cancer 1996;77:381-6.
Exercise testing for evaluation of cardiac performance.

Abstract The 2-step exercise test is the safest for determining the function of the heart, in evaluating its work capacity and in determining therapeutic measures. The maximal heart rate obtained with the 2-step test is adequate for the detection of coronary artery disease. The “augmented” 2-step test, when negative, completely excludes the presence of coronary artery disease. Strenuous exercise tests are discussed in a general way. They have not as yet been standardized and they are not for office use.
Studies on the effects of gaseous ions on plant growth. I. The influence of positive and negative air ions on the growth of Avena sativa.

Exposure of Avena sativa seedlings to unipolar ionized atmospheres of either charge produced statistically significant stimulation of growth as measured by mean stem length, integral elongation, and dry weight. The extent of growth increase was related to the atmospheric ion density and this in turn determined the magnitude of current flow to ground. The minimal current measured in the ground circuit and capable of producing a measurable difference in growth was 4.3 to 4.6 x 10-13 amp/plant.