cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Production of actinium-225 for alpha particle mediated radioimmunotherapy.

Abstract The initial clinical trials for treatment of acute myeloid leukemia have demonstrated the effectiveness of the alpha emitter 213Bi in killing cancer cells. Bismuth-213 is obtained from a radionuclide generator system from decay of 10-days 225Ac parent. Recent pre-clinical studies have also shown the potential application of both 213Bi, and the 225Ac parent radionuclide in a variety of cancer systems and targeted radiotherapy. This paper describes our five years of experience in production of 225Ac in partial support of the on-going clinical trials. A four-step chemical process, consisting of both anion and cation exchange chromatography, is utilized for routine separation of carrier-free 225Ac from a mixture of 228Th, 229Th and 232Th. The separation of Ra and Ac from Th is achieved using the marcoporous anion exchange resin MP1 in 8 M HNO3 media. Two sequential MP1/NO3 columns provide a separation factor of ∼106 for Ra and Ac from Th. The separation of Ac from Ra is accomplished on a low cross-linking cation exchange resin AG50-X4 using 1.2 M HNO3 as eluant. Two sequential AG50/NO3 columns provide a separation factor of ∼102 for Ac from Ra. A 60-day processing schedule has been adopted in order to reduce the processing cost and to provide the highest levels of 225Ac possible. Over an 8-week campaign, a total of ∼100 mCi of 225Ac (∼80% of the theoretical yield) is shipped in 5–6 batches, with the first batch typically consisting of ∼50 mCi. After the initial separation and purification of Ac, the Ra pool is re-processed on a bi-weekly schedule or as needed to provide smaller batches of 225Ac. The averaged radioisotopic purity of the 225Ac was 99.6 ± 0.7% with a 225Ra content of ⩽0.6%, and an average 229Th content of (4−4+5)×10−5%.
Measurements of interfacial shear viscoelasticity with an oscillatory torsional viscometer

Abstract The stress-deformation behavior of a non-Newtonian surface subject to an oscillatory shearing flow was theoretically as well as experimentally investigated. The rheological properties of such an interface were interpreted using the complex viscosity surface fluid model. The measurements of surface shear viscoelasticity of an air-liquid surface were performed with the in-house built oscillatory torsional interfacial viscometer. The behavior of the liquid-liquid interface was described based on the exact solution obtained from the analysis of the interfacial rheometer, assuming a non-Newtonian surface and Newtonian bulk phases. The interfacial angular velocity distributions are illustrated as functions of surface viscous and elastic components described by the complex viscosity surface fluid model. An extensive experimental investigation of the surfactant concentration and temperature dependence of the surface viscoelasticity of aqueous gelatin solutions was carried out. The surface rheological behavior encompasses both shear thickening and shear thinning, below and above a characteristic frequency, respectively. The characteristic frequency is independent of temperature, except at 35°C. The surface shear elasticity attains maximum values at a characteristic frequency which is independent of surfactant concentration and temperature, except at 40°C. The temperature dependence of the surface shear viscoelasticity and the origin of the characteristic frequency are explained in terms of the two conformations of gelatin molecules, namely, the α-conformation at 40 and 45°C, and the β-conformation at 35°C. In general, it was found that the temperature and surfactant concentration dependence of the surface shear elasticity was more complex than the corresponding dependence of the surface shear viscosity. Moreover, the experimental results proved the appropriateness of the complex viscosity surface fluid model and the viability of the oscillatory torsional interfacial rheometer.
1.1 Gbit/s RF-interconnect based on 10 GHz RF-modulation in 0.18 μm CMOS

An RF-interconnect transceiver based on the RF-modulation and capacitive coupling for a high speed digital interface is presented. The prototype transceiver is implemented in 0.18 /spl mu/m CMOS technology. It demonstrates a maximum data rate of 1.1 Gbit/s with a 10 GHz RF-modulation. This RF-interconnect is believed to be instrumental for high-speed link applications in multi-memory and microprocessor interfaces.
Neck range of motion and use of computer head controls

Computer head controls provide an alternative means of computer access for people with disabilities. However, a person?s ability to use head controls may be reduced if his or her disability involves neck movement limitations. In this study, 15 subjects without disabilities and 10 subjects with disabilities received neck range of motion evaluations and performed computer exercises using head controls. Regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between neck range of motion and performance on computer exercises. Reduced neck range of motion was found to be correlated with reduced functional range for moving the cursor across the screen, and reduced accuracy and speed in icon selection. Fitts' Law-type models were fit to the data, indicating higher Fitts' law slopes for subjects with disabilities compared to subjects without disabilities. Results also indicate that vertical cursor movements are faster than horizontal or diagonal movements.
Effects of Li impurities on MgO(001)

The electronic properties of Li-doped MgO(001) surfaces with and without O vacancies are investigated using density-functional theory within the full-potential linearized-augmented plane-wave approach. The calculated formation energy of an O vacancy on the Li-doped MgO(001) surface is drastically reduced to 6.55 eV from that on the MgO(001) clean surface (9.5 eV). This explains the experimental observation that Li impurity promotes the production of O vacancies. The Li-doped O-deficient MgO(001) surface is rich in gap states around the Fermi level, which should strongly enhance its chemical activity.
The preoperative diagnosis of the ulcerated carotid atheroma

Abstract Arteriography and carotid duplex imaging accurately quantify the degree of stenosis caused by carotid atheroma. Since arteriography is inconsistent in identifying carotid ulceration, and controversy exists regarding the diagnostic accuracy of carotid B-mode imaging, a prospective study was performed comparing the two techniques to 126 carotid endarterectomy specimens. Sixty percent (76/126) of specimens contained ulcers. The diagnostic sensitivity for B-mode imaging and arteriography was 47% (36/76) and 53% (40/76), respectively ( p = NS). Importantly, the degree of stenosis caused by the plaque significantly affected diagnostic sensitivities. B-mode sensitivity was 77% (10/13) in plaques ≤50% and 41% (26/63) for plaques >50% (p = 0.03). Arteriography likewise detected 77% (10/13) of ulcers in plaques ≤50% stenosis and 48% (30/63) in plaques with >50% stenosis ( p = 0.07). In patients with focal symptoms, 100% (10/10) of plaques with ≤50% stenosis contained ulcers, whereas in plaques with >50% stenosis 63% (36/57) contained ulcers ( p = 0.02). These data indicate that the diagnostic sensitivity for carotid ulceration is not significantly different between B-mode carotid imaging and arteriography. Since most B-mode errors occur with high-grade stenoses this short-coming is unlikely to adversely affect patient care. Previous studies investigating the ability of carotid B-mode imaging to detect ulceration failed to address quantitative aspects of the carotid plaque. These data appear to resolve the previously existing controversy. (J VASC SURG 1990;11:505-10.)
What Do Religion Scholars Say About Marketing? Perspectives from the Religion Literature

ABSTRACT In recent years, churches and religious organizations have come to recognize they are involved in marketing activities. A review of the religion journals found 17 articles on marketing issues published since 1976. Reasons for religious organization resistance, as well as gradual acceptance of marketing, are discussed. Opportunities for future research are considered.
Treatment of fecal impaction with pulsed irrigation enhanced evacuation.

PURPOSE: A new method of treating fecal impaction is described, selecting patients that would otherwise have required operative disimpaction. METHOD: Using the pulsed irrigation enhanced evacuation device, individuals were selected for treatment based on evidence of massive fecal impaction on physical examination or abdominal x-ray. RESULTS: Fourteen individuals were treated for fecal impaction. The patients ranged in age from 13 to 86 years. Only one patient required intravenous sedation, an elderly patient with Alzheimer's disease. The treatment was successful in each case, although repeated treatment was often necessary. No morbidity arose from the treatment. By the midpoint in our study, because of the success of this treatment, no patient required hospitalization for impaction. CONCLUSION: Pulsed irrigation enhanced evacuation has been in our experience a simple, quick, and effective treatment for severe fecal impaction.
Correlation between brain tryptophan and plasma neutral amino acid levels following food consumption in rats

Abstract Brain tryptophan increases significantly within two hr of the time that rats begin to consume a diet containing carbohydrate and fat, but fails to rise if the diet also contains 18–24% protein. The effects of particular diets on brain tryptophan are not well correlated with plasma tryptophan concentrations alone, but do correlate well with the ratio of plasma tryptophan to individual neutral amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, valine, tyrosine, phenylalanine) or to their sums. (These amino acids compete with tryptophan for uptake into the brain.) Carbohydrate ingestion raises brain tryptophan by elevating plasma tryptophan and depressing the plasma levels of the competing neutral amino acids; protein consumption prevents an increase in brain tryptophan by raising the plasma concentrations of the competing amino acids more than of tryptophan.
Clinical implication of preoperative oral cholecystogram for laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Background: The aim of this study was to retrospectively assess the usefulness of the preoperative oral cholecystogram (OCG) as an index to the feasibility of laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) and the operative pathologic findings. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become the standard treatment for symptomatic gallbladder (GB) disease. However, no definite diagnostic modality that can predict the feasibility of LC and severity of pathologic anatomy has been proposed. Methods: Retrospective data were collected on 240 consecutive patients undergoing LC at St. Vincent Hospital, Catholic University Medical College, from October 1991 until December 1993. Radiologic interpretations of OCG were standardized according to the method of Koehler and Kyaw—from grade 0 to 4. And the operative findings—pericholecystic adhesion, color of GB, and thickness of the GB wall—were evaluated simultaneously. Results: The analysis showed that preoperative OCG can predict intraoperative GB perforation (p = 0.022), intraoperative controllable bleeding (p = 0.034), and operating time (p = 0.0001) according to the grade of visualization of GB. Grade 2- or -better visualized groups had more patients who had blue-colored GB (p = 0.000) and who had thin GB wall (p =0.000). Conclusions: Preoperative oral cholecystogram may be an accurate index of the feasibility of laparoscopic cholecystectomy—represented by operating time and important intraoperative minor complications related to the operative pathologic findings.
Portable radioactivity monitor for liquid effluents, surface contaminations, and bulk solid wastes

Abstract A versatile monitoring system is described which allows the nondestructive analysis of batch liquid samples, surface contaminations, and bulk waste packages for radioactive materials. The system uses the simplicity and extremely high sensitivity of NaI-based gamma-ray spectroscopy. As an example of the instrument's versatility, the simultaneous measurement of 235 U, 238 U, and thorium in liquids at sub-MPC (maximum permissible concentration) levels is described in detail. As a further demonstration of the system's capabilities, the assay of solid transuranic wastes at 10 nCi/g levels is discussed.
Calibrating a forest landscape model to simulate frequent fire in Mediterranean-type shrublands

In Mediterranean-type ecosystems (MTEs), fire disturbance influences the distribution of most plant communities, and altered fire regimes may be more important than climate factors in shaping future MTE vegetation dynamics. Models that simulate the high-frequency fire and post-fire response strategies characteristic of these regions will be important tools for evaluating potential landscape change scenarios. However, few existing models have been designed to simulate these properties over long time frames and broad spatial scales. We refined a landscape disturbance and succession (LANDIS) model to operate on an annual time step and to simulate altered fire regimes in a southern California Mediterranean landscape. After developing a comprehensive set of spatial and non-spatial variables and parameters, we calibrated the model to simulate very high fire frequencies and evaluated the simulations under several parameter scenarios representing hypotheses about system dynamics. The goal was to ensure that observed model behavior would simulate the specified fire regime parameters, and that the predictions were reasonable based on current understanding of community dynamics in the region. After calibration, the two dominant plant functional types responded realistically to different fire regime scenarios. Therefore, this model offers a new alternative for simulating altered fire regimes in MTE landscapes.
An anatomical investigation of the human cervical facet capsule, quantifying muscle insertion area.

Facet capsule injury has been hypothesised as a mechanism for neck pain. While qualitative studies have demonstrated the proximity of neck muscles to the cervical facet capsule, the magnitude of their forces remains unknown owing to a lack of quantitative muscle geometry. In this study, histological techniques were employed to quantify muscle insertions on the human cervical facet capsule. Computerised image analysis of slides stained with Masson's trichrome was performed to characterise the geometry of the cervical facet capsule and determine the total insertion area of muscle fibres into the facet capsule for the C4–C5 and C5–C6 joints. Muscle insertions were found to cover 22·4±9·6 % of the capsule area for these cervical levels, corresponding to a mean muscle insertion area of 47·6±21·8 mm2. The magnitude of loading to the cervical facet capsule due to eccentric muscle contraction is estimated to be as high as 51 N. When taken in conjunction with the forces acting on the capsular ligament due to vertebral motions, these forces can be as high as 66 N. In that regard, these anatomical data provide quantitative evidence of substantial muscle insertions into the cervical facet capsular ligament and provide a possible mechanism for injury to this ligament and the facet joint as a whole.
Primary Mediastinal B-Cell Lymphoma: A Review of Pathology and Management

PURPOSE: Primary mediastinal B-cell lymphoma (PMBL) is recognized as a separate disease entity in the REAL classification. There is uncertainty about the relevance and especially the optimal management of this disorder. In this review, we discuss clinical presentation, pathology, pathobiology, and management of PMBL in order to provide a platform for initiation of further clinical and biologic studies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Studies were identified through a MEDLINE search and from the bibliographies of relevant articles. RESULTS: PMBL is a tumor of young adults who present with a rapidly proliferating tumor. At diagnosis, the tumor is usually limited to intrathoracic organs. Spread to parenchymal organs such as liver, kidneys, and CNS is common at recurrence. Fibrosis and the presence of so-called clear cells are distinctive morphologic features of PMBL, although they are not pathognomonic or even necessary for diagnosis. On the other hand, biologic features relating to oncogene rearrangement and overexp...
Interfaces for coordinated access in the file system

Distributed applications routinely use the file system for coordination of access and often rely on POSIX consistency semantics or file system lock support for coordination. In this paper we discuss the types of coordination many distributed applications perform and the coordination model they are restricted to using with locks. We introduce an alternative coordination model in the file system that uses extended attribute support in the file system to provide atomic operations on serialization variables. We demonstrate the usefulness of this approach for a number of coordination patterns common to distributed applications.
Natural Variation in CDC28 Underlies Morphological Phenotypes in an Environmental Yeast Isolate

Morphological differences among individuals in a species represent one of the most striking aspects of biology, and a primary aim of modern genetics is to uncover the molecular basis of morphological variation. In a survey of meiosis phenotypes among environmental isolates of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, we observed an unusual arrangement of meiotic spores within the spore sac in a strain from Ivory Coast, West Africa. We mined population genomic data to identify CDC28 as the major genetic determinant of meiotic and budding cell shape behaviors in this strain. Molecular genetic methods confirmed the role of the Ivory Coast variant of CDC28 in the arrangement of spores after meiosis, in the shape of budding cells in rich medium and in the morphology of filamentous growth during nitrogen limitation. Our results shed new light on the role of CDC28 in yeast cell division, and our work suggests that with the growing availability of genomic data sets in many systems, a priori prediction of functional variants will become an increasingly powerful strategy in molecular genetics.
Some Conceptual Issues in Individual and Group-Oriented Strategies of Intervention into Organizations

This paper is an attempt to conceptualize and contrast some of the psychological and sociological assumptions underlying two different strategies of social intervention: an individually oriented strategy which assumes that individual change is the primary mediator of organization change and a group-oriented strategy which assumes that group-level phenomena, such as norms and values, are the primary mediators of organization change. It is not assumed that the views presented in this paper are complete or uncontroversial. On the contrary, by articulating these assumptions and their interrelationships, we hope to begin building systemic conceptual frameworks for describing the dynamics of social intervention. The understanding of social process provided by these frameworks may aid the practitioner in his application of an intervention approach and may help the theoretician-researcher to be more aware of gaps in his knowledge of social process.
Drift-controlled scalable video coding in over-complete wavelet domain

In this work, we propose a novel scheme to minimize drift in scalable wavelet based video coding, which gives a balanced performance between compression efficiency and quality. Our drift control mechanism maintains two frame buffers in the encoder and decoder; one for the base layer and the other for the enhancement layer. Drift control is achieved by switching between these two buffers for motion compensation and prediction. In the encoder, the residues are coded using the embedded zerotree wavelet (EZW) algorithm. Our prediction is based on the enhancement layer, which inherently introduces drift in the system, if part of the enhancement layer is not available at the receiver. A measure of drift is computed based on channel information, and a threshold is set. When the measure exceeds the threshold, i.e. when drift becomes significant, we switch the prediction to be based on the base layer, which is always available to the receiver. The proposed coder determines the threshold and the buffer switching instance based on given channel conditions and the rate. Our coder offers high compression efficiency and acceptable video quality for different bit rate conditions. This proves that we need not completely eliminate drift and decrease compression efficiency to get better video quality.
Inoculation Techniques for Identifying Resistance in Sorghum Genotypes to Sorghum Ergot

Abstract Seven inoculation methods were tested at multiple field sites with different climates in Texas and Mexico to determine the technique most suitable for routine screening of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) germplasm for resistance to Claviceps africana (causal agent of sorghum ergot). A single spray or sponge inoculation before flower initiation followed by bagging of the panicles for seven days was the most reliable technique for identifying ergot-resistant sorghum genotypes. This method ensures that unfertilized ovules and infection sites were exposed to the pathogen at the time of greatest vulnerability, thereby reducing the influence of flowering characteristics. This method is repeatable and rapid, thus providing a useful procedure for germplasm evaluation. Disease symptoms on sorghum genotypes are expressed within a reasonably short period. Compared with the other methods, inoculated and bagged panicles resulted in a significantly higher percentage of ergot-infected florets in all envir...
Ecogeomorphic expressions of an aspect‐controlled semiarid basin: II. Topographic and vegetation controls on solar irradiance

Topography-mediated microclimates give rise to opposing hillslope ecosystems in north facing and south facing slopes of a semiarid basin in central New Mexico. It is hypothesized that large solar irradiance differences are a driving mechanism in the observed vegetation patterns. Using a distributed solar radiation model, we explore the topography–vegetation controls on annual and seasonal irradiance in the basin. Three digital elevation models (DEMs), ranging from 1 m to 10 m resolution, and a digital surface model with tree canopies, from Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), are used to assess improvements in capturing irradiance differences in the opposing slopes. Remarkably reduced irradiance is found in the north facing slope throughout the year. This suggests that terrain aspect is a first-order control on the spatial distribution of irradiance, with terrain slope leading to differences within each aspect. Tree cover and its spatial arrangement are important second-order controls on irradiance which can overwhelm topographic effects in specific locations and times of year. For example, differences between north facing and south facing slopes are maximized in the spring equinox, rather than the winter solstice, when tree shading and reflection are accounted for. North facing trees also diminish intercanopy radiation, depending on tree cover and vegetation albedo, with important ecological implications for the conifer–grass association. Solar irradiance analysis helps identify the underlying topographic and vegetation controls on microclimate in the opposing hillslope ecosystems, suggesting a feedback mechanism that helps reinforce the differences in vegetation establishment. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Guided medication dosing for elderly emergency patients using real-time, computerized decision support.

Objective To evaluate the impact of a real-time computerized decision support tool in the emergency department that guides medication dosing for the elderly on physician ordering behavior and on adverse drug events (ADEs). Design A prospective controlled trial was conducted over 26 weeks. The status of the decision support tool alternated OFF (7/17/06e8/29/06), ON (8/29/06e10/ 10/06), OFF (10/10/06e11/28/06), and ON (11/28/ 06e1/16/07) in consecutive blocks during the study period. In patients $65 who were ordered certain benzodiazepines, opiates, non-steroidals, or sedativehypnotics, the computer application either adjusted the dosing or suggested a different medication. Physicians could accept or reject recommendations. Measurements The primary outcome compared medication ordering consistent with recommendations during ON versus OFF periods. Secondary outcomes included the admission rate, emergency department length of stay for discharged patients, 10-fold dosing orders, use of a second drug to reverse the original medication, and rate of ADEs using previously validated explicit chart review. Results 2398 orders were placed for 1407 patients over 1548 visits. The majority (49/53; 92.5%) of recommendations for alternate medications were declined. More orders were consistent with dosing recommendations during ON (403/1283; 31.4%) than OFF (256/1115; 23%) periods (p#0.0001). 673 (43%) visits were reviewed for ADEs. The rate of ADEs was lower during ON (8/237; 3.4%) compared with OFF (31/436; 7.1%) periods (p¼0.02). The remaining secondary outcomes showed no difference. Limitations Single institution study, retrospective chart review for ADEs. Conclusion Though overall agreement with recommendations was low, real-time computerized decision support resulted in greater acceptance of medication recommendations. Fewer ADEs were observedwhencomputerizeddecisionsupportwasactive.
Tolerance of an Aquatic Power Training Program by Older Adults with Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis

Objective. To determine the tolerance and feasibility of aquatic-based power training for improving lower limb muscle power, impairments, and mobility in adults with symptomatic knee OA. Participants. Twenty-nine adults, age 50 years and over, with symptomatic knee OA (ACR clinical criteria) and mobility limitation (400-meter walk time slower than median for sex and decade) completed 45-minute aquatic power training sessions twice weekly for 6 weeks. Main Outcome Measurements. Prospective outcomes included tolerance of the program, as well as change in stair climb power, 400-meter walk time, overall and knee-specific pain, activities of daily living (ADL), quality of life (QOL), and lower limb function at 6- and 12-week follow-up. Results. The training intensity required modification for 9 of the 29 participants. Lower limb muscle power, ADL, QOL, and overall pain were improved immediately and 6 weeks following completion (all P < 0.05). However, 400-meter walk times, and lower limb function did not differ from baseline. Conclusions. A 6-week aquatic rehabilitation program appears to be well tolerated by adults with symptomatic knee OA with mobility limitations and may result in improved lower limb muscle power, symptoms, ADL, and QOL. However, this intervention may have insufficient specificity or intensity for improving physical function.
Synthesis and self‐organization of rod–dendron and dendron–rod–dendron molecules

We synthesized molecules containing one or two dendritic segments and a rigid-rod-like segment with their structures in the solid state. The molecules with rod-dendron or dendron-rod-dendron architecture had biphenyl ester rigid segments and 3,4,5 tris(re-dodecyloxy)benzoate of first or second generation as their dendritic segments. The variables investigated included the rod segment length as well as dendron generation, and all materials obtained were characterized by optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray scattering. Depending on the size of the rod segment and generation number of the dendritic segment, molecules organized into smectic, columnar, or cubic phases, and the symmetries observed were dominated by the anisotropic rod-rod interactions. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Model studies of electrical leak detection surveys in geomembrane-lined impoundments

Pole-dipole array electrical potential distributions are calculated for a geomembrane-lined liquid impoundment having single or multiple leaks. A three-dimensional numerical model is employed to represent a small circular leak in the highly resistive plastic liner. The liquid waste material, the liner, and the soil under the impoundment are simulated by infinite horizontal layers, with approximate corrections for the finite size of the impoundment. Parametric curves for a single leak show that with optimum selection of electrode spacing and positioning and other field survey parameters, leaks can be detected effectively. To identify and resolve the presence of a cluster of leaks, the potential measurements must be made close to the liner and the detector dipole spacing must be smaller than the separation of the leaks. The results also indicate that the survey speed may be increased when portable leak detection equipment employing a vertical dipole detector is used.
Juran: A Lifetime of Influence

This article presents a review of the book “Juran: A Lifetime of Influence,” by John Butman.
On the Speedup Required to Achieve 100% Throughput for Multicast Over Crossbar Switches

We show an isomorphism between maximal matching for packet scheduling in crossbar switches and strictly non-blocking circuit switching in three-stage Clos networks. We use the analogy for a crossbar switch of size n times n to construct a simple multicast packet scheduler of complexity O(n log n) based on maximal matching. We show that, with this simple scheduler, a speedup of O(log n/log log n) is necessary to support 100% throughput for any admissible multicast traffic. If fanout splitting of multicast packets is not allowed, we show that an extra speedup of 2 is necessary, even when the arrival rates are within the admissible region for mere unicast traffic. Also we revisit some problems in unicast switch scheduling. We illustrate that the analogy provides useful perspectives and we give a simple proof for a well known result.
Growth with Inequality: Living Standards in Mexico, 1850–1950

This article focuses on trends in the adult heights of various sectors of Mexican society between 1850 and 1950 as a proxy for their biological and material standards of living. The evolution of biological standards of living is an alternative way to assess whether or not economic development after 1850 was beneficial to the population, using a proxy that relies on a basic natural characteristic, adult height. The recruitment records of the Mexican rural and federal militia provide us with information on the secular trends of heights of the Mexican labouring classes, while a database of passport applications allows us to compare the evolution of living standards across social classes. It is argued that the benefits of industrialisation and improved economic performance fostered by the Diaz regime (1876–1910) did not have a favourable impact on the biological wellbeing of the labouring population. There are, however, signs of improvement in living standards with the launching of welfare programmes at the end of the Cardenas administration. In contrast, the average height of the elites increased throughout the period, suggesting that there was a growing disparity in the evolution of living standards between social classes.
DOES CONSISTENT AGGREGATION REALLY MATTER

Consistent aggregation ensures that behavioural properties which apply to disaggregate relationships apply also to aggregate relationships. The agricultural economics literature which has tested for consistent aggregation or measured statistical bias and/or inferential errors due to aggregation is reviewed. Tests for aggregation bias and errors of inference are conducted using indices previously tested for consistent aggregation. Failure to reject consistent aggregation in a partition did not entirely mitigate erroneous inference due to aggregation. However, inferential errors due to aggregation were small relative to errors due to incorrect functional form or failure to account for time series properties of data.
Revisited Linguistic Intuitions

AbstractMichael Devitt ([2006a], [2006b]) argues that, insofar as linguists possess better theories about language than non-linguists, their linguistic intuitions are more reliable. (Culbertson and...
A new model of dynamic recovery for Stage III of pure fcc metals without cross slip

Abstract Dynamic recovery in Stage III of strain hardening of pure fcc metals has been known for decades and has been associated with dislocation cell formation and refinement in scale with increasing plastic shear resistance when this exceeds a critical and temperature-dependent threshold level. Its rate controlling process had been attributed by Seeger 50 years ago to massive cross slip of screw dislocation groups circumventing Lomer-Cottrell type linear sessile dislocations blocking the primary slip system. Consideration of this cross slip-controlled mechanism has persisted in various modified forms in the literature up to the present, even though it is not consistent with the cellular dislocation structure of Stage III, and its evolution. Here a new mechanism is proposed in which dynamic recovery occurs through the systematic removal of short Lomer – Cottrell type sessile dislocation segments, i. e. LC locks, in the cell walls by statistical processes stimulated by the impingement of glide dislocation...
FtsZ from Divergent Foreign Bacteria Can Function for Cell Division in Escherichia coli

FtsZs from Mycoplasma pulmonis (MpuFtsZ) and Bacillus subtilis (BsFtsZ) are only 46% and 53% identical in amino acid sequence to FtsZ from Escherichia coli (EcFtsZ). In the present study we show that MpuFtsZ and BsFtsZ can function for cell division in E. coli provided we make two modifications. First, we replaced their C-terminal tails with that from E. coli, giving the foreign FtsZ the binding site for E. coli FtsA and ZipA. Second, we selected for mutations in the E. coli genome that facilitated division by the foreign FtsZs. These suppressor strains arose at a relatively high frequency of 10(-3) to 10(-5), suggesting that they involve loss-of-function mutations in multigene pathways. These pathways may be negative regulators of FtsZ or structural pathways that facilitate division by slightly defective FtsZ. Related suppressor strains were obtained for EcFtsZ containing certain point mutations or insertions of yellow fluorescent protein. The ability of highly divergent FtsZs to function for division in E. coli is consistent with a two-part mechanism. FtsZ assembles the Z ring, and perhaps generates the constriction force, through self interactions; the downstream division proteins remodel the peptidoglycan wall by interacting with each other and the wall. The C-terminal peptide of FtsZ, which binds FtsA, provides the link between FtsZ assembly and peptidoglycan remodeling.
Deconstructing Adults' and Children's Discourse on Children's Play: Listening to Children's Voices to Destabilise Deficit Narratives.

This study used discourse analysis to compare the language adults use to discuss contemporary children's play and children's narratives of their own play experiences. Adult discourse was analysed to determine whether they positioned children through deficit or strength and the attributions of responsibility embedded within their language choices (e.g. assuming responsibility is with the child, family or society). Interviews were completed with 98 children (3–17) living in the USA and interviews and surveys were completed with 135 adults (18–88) from 21 different countries. Children emphasise interconnection with others, being outdoors and using open-ended toys to imagine and explore when discussing their play with little mention of technology. A majority of adults (78%) used deficit discourse and few used strengths-based language to discuss children's play (21%). Adult discourse differed significantly from children's descriptions of their own play. Findings suggest the importance of including children's p...
IDENTIFICATION OF A RAT GHRH-LIKE SUBSTANCE AND ITS MESSENGER RNA IN RAT TESTIS

The adult testis is a source of hypothalamic neuropeptides including TRH, GnRH, POMC and CRF. The role of these neuropeptides as paracrine regulators of gonadal function in the testis remains unknown. We postulated that growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) might also be measureable in rat testis. Testes from ten post pubertal rats (400-425g, -90d) were extracted and assayed in an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) which utilized an anti-rat GHRH antiserum and had a sensitivity of 30 pg. We detected 1.62 ± 0.17 (M ± SEM) ng of GHRH-like substance per g testis. The GHRH content of hypothalamus from these animals was 2.70 ± 0.24 ng/g (N= 7,6 hypothalami/N). Fat served as a negative control tissue in which no GHRH-like material was detectable. To confirm the finding and in attempt to determine if it represented local production of GHRH, we measured GHRH mRN A using a cRNA probe subcloned from a cDNA for rat GHRH. Abundant levels of hybridizing RNA were found in mature testis by dot-blot hybridizatio...
Damage Diagnostics of Metallic Structures using Magneto-Mechanical Impedance Technique

The paper discusses application of a Magneto-Mechanical Impedance (MMI) technique for damage diagnostics in metallic structures. A magneto-elastic active sensor consisting of a coil and a permanent magnet is utilized for generation of elastic waves via the eddy current mechanism. The generated waves travel in the host structure and reflect off boundaries producing standing (modal) spatial patterns at respective resonance frequencies. Frequency dependent response to the applied excitation is obtained by the same sensor and is presented in terms of the dynamic impedance. It is shown that the impedance measured in the MMI technique reflects structural dynamic characteristics. Experimental studies involving simple and complex structural elements are presented that explore MMI spectral features for damage diagnostics. Comparison of the impedance data reveals shift and redistribution of impedance peaks in the MMI spectra associated with the damaged samples. We conclude that MMI technique can be employed for structural diagnostics in the embedded SHM or re-configurable NDE formats.
Optimal Rate-Based Image Transmissions via Multiple Paths in Wireless Sensor Network

Many sensor applications such as monitoring and surveillance may require image sensor array to conduct collaborative image transmissions in wireless sensor network (WSN). The large size image transmission in WSN is a bottleneck due to the limited energy resources. In this paper, we propose an optimal scheme for image sensors to utilize inter-sensor correlations to decide transmission patterns based on a multi-level rate-oriented routing (MLRR) routing scheme, which achieves high energy efficiencies and longer network lifetime. This optimization scheme allows each image sensor to transmit optimal fractions of the overlapped images through appropriate multiple rate-oriented routing paths. The simulation results by using GA algorithm show that the proposed image transmission scheme can achieve considerable gains in terms of the WSN energy efficiency and network lifetime extension.
Stability of natural convection in a vertical slot

The stability of natural convection of a viscous fluid in a vertical slot having isothermal side walls of different temperatures is investigated analytically. Both the conduction and boundary-layer regimes are found to be unstable with respect to stationary disturbances in the form of multicellular secondary flows. Theoretical predictions of the critical Rayleigh number and of the form of the secondary flow are verified by experimental measurements.
Following aacp guidelines for transitions in care: The transitional care clinic

The period of transition from hospital to community services is critical for individuals with serious mental illness. The American Association of Community Psychiatry developed guidelines for transitional services in behavioral health care. This column describes ways in which the Transitional Care Clinic (TCC) at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio has implemented these guidelines. The TCC includes active outreach to hospitals and a Web-based referral system that allows hospital staff to make TCC appointments for patients for as soon as the day after discharge. The program includes a unique group intake process that allows rapid development of individualized plans while maximizing access to services and use of provider time.
I Heard These Medications Give You Cancer. Is That True? Risks of Malignancy with IBD Therapy

“Thiopurines (azathioprine and mercaptopurine) and biologic anti-TNF agents (infliximab, adalimumab, certolizumab, and golimumab) are some of the most effective medications that we have for treating inflammatory bowel disease. However, it is important to recognize that these therapies have been associated with an increase in the risk of developing certain cancers including lymphoma and skin cancer. Fortunately, the total number of people who develop these cancers while on therapy is very small. There is also little evidence that thiopurines and anti-TNF drugs significantly increase the risk of other types of cancers. Before initiating treatment with these types of medications, we need to review your cancer risks and weigh them against the considerable benefits these therapies can offer.”
Auditor Industry Specialization, Chapter 15

As audit quality is paramount in returning the profession to the “priesthood” in the wake of accounting scandals such as Enron and bank failures, perhaps the most important question with respect to industry specialization is whether or not industry specialists provide truly superior quality audits. Research in industry specialization by auditors has focused to date primarily on addressing this question; the pricing of audits by specialists is a related issue also examined in a number of studies. Research suggests that specialists are associated with higher earnings quality for their auditees, whether due to intervention in the reporting process, or because management anticipates such intervention and constrains opportunistic earnings management. The role of industry specialization in audit pricing has been frequently addressed in the literature, and yet remains largely unresolved. Some studies present evidence of specialist premiums, while others find no premiums or premiums only for certain subsets of clients. In its 2003 report, the GAO expressed some concern that auditor choice was limited for large national and multinational companies requiring industry-specific expertise, noting that an auditor who audits a number of smaller companies within an industry may not have the necessary expertise to handle the larger clients in that industry. Most researchers, however, find little evidence of adverse impacts such as oligopolistic pricing as a result of the increased audit market concentration resulting from the audit firm mergers and demise of Arthur Andersen. Industry specialization, if pursued as a means of enhancing the knowledge and understanding necessary to conduct superior audits, should result in benefits to both client and auditor. Industry specialists may be able to provide higher levels of assurance because they are more likely to assess risks, and to detect financial reporting errors and irregularities, and are thus equipped to deliver better planned and more effective audits.
The Death of the Rule Against Perpetuities, or the RAP Has No Friends - An Essay

This Article analyzes the Rule Against Perpetuities, which limits dead hand control of property to a reasonable period of time and chronicles its decline in recent years as public interest in creating perpetuities has increased. The author details society's prevailing attitudes towards aggregations of wealth in trusts that facilitate the creation of perpetuities and undermine the Rule's legitimacy in modern law.
Molecular Diagnosis of Charcot-Marie Tooth Disease

The frequency of mutations in certain genes in 153 unrelated patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) was determined by DNA sequencing before clinical testing at the Departments of Molecular and Human Genetics and Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, and other centers.
Experimental studies on the life cycle of a lizard pentastomid.

In previous reports (Lavoipierre & Lavoipierre, 1965, Med. J. Malaya 20 : 72; Lavoipierre & Lavoipierre, 1966, Nature 210 : 845) we provided evidence that the American cockroach, Periplaneta americana , is an intermediate host of the gecko pentastomid, Raillietiella hemidactyli , in Singapore. Our conclusions were based on ecological data and on a comparison of parasites dissected both from the invertebrate and vertebrate hosts. Since this work was published we have studied experimentally some aspects of the life cycle of the parasite and a brief summary of our investigations is given here.
Generational Technological Change: Effects of Innovation and Local Rivalry on Performance

We tested the effects of innovation and market complexity on firm performance. Generational technological change—a major advance within a technology regime—fosters the emergence of niches and local...
Binary Mask Estimation for Improved Speech Intelligibility in Reverberant Environments.

A blind (non-ideal) time-frequency (T-F) masking technique is proposed for suppressing reverberation. A binary mask is estimated at each T-F unit by extracting a single variance-based feature from the reverberant signal and comparing its value against an adaptive threshold. The performance of the estimated binary mask is evaluated using intelligibility listening tests with hearing impaired listeners in four moderate to highly reverberant conditions. Results indicated that the proposed T-F masking technique yielded significant improvements in intelligibility even in highly reverberant conditions (T60 = 1.0 s). This improvement was attributed to the recovery of the vowel/consonant boundaries which are severely smeared in reverberation.
RNA aptamer as potential antidote against botulism: an in vivo report

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) are the most toxic substances to mankind, and yet, there are no therapeutics available to reverse the paralysis, the deadly symptom of botulism caused by BoNTs. Here we report that RNA aptamer, selected through in vitro process against light chain of botulinum neurotoxin type A (BoNT/A) showed in vivo protection efficacy against botulism. Our results showed that RNA aptamer not only accelerated the recovery of local paralysis induced by BoNT/A through mouse exercise wheel assay, but also significantly delayed the time-to-death through mouse protection assay, and rescued one mouse (out of six) completely intoxicated by BoNT/A. Our results demonstrated the potential using RNA aptamer as antidote against deadly botulism.
Extending DIS for individual combatants

The domain of DIS (distributed interactive simulation) military training simulators has recently been expanding to the level of individual combatants. After gaining some experience with an individual-level simulator, we have identified several areas of the DIS protocol that need to be expanded or changed to accommodate individual humans. In the entity state Protocol Data Unit (PDU), some information in the entity type and appearance fields should be replaced with detailed upper body, limb and weapon position information. An intelligent human figure animation algorithm should be used to dead reckon the lower body. Weapons and other objects should gain status independent of the entity through the use of a modification of the destructible entity protocol. Finally, the Fire PDU should indicate the scatter pattern and direction vector of a burst. >
Facial Artery Myomucosal (FAMM) Flap

The facial artery myomucosal (FAMM) flap is an effective means for reconstructing defects in and around the oral cavity. Such defects may be the result of trauma, excision of neoplasm, or other. Smaller defects may generally be closed with local tissue. The flap is an axial-patterned flap based on the facial artery and taken from the inner aspect of the cheek. It may be based superiorly or inferiorly. The flap should be designed such that the donor site may be closed primarily. The major complications are related to eventual wound healing and flap viability.