cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
DEBT REFUNDING AND SHAREHOLDER WEALTH: THE PRICE EFFECTS OF DEBT‐FOR‐DEBT EXCHANGE OFFER ANNOUNCEMENTS

This study examines the impact of debt refunding on common stock prices for a sample of 48 exchange offers announced from 1970 through 1981. Exchange offer announcements do not have a significant impact on average common stock returns but appear to produce idiosyncratic share price effects. Refunding-induced price effects were unrelated to several exchange offer characteristics including tax shield increases, exchange offer premia, and transaction costs of refunding. Common stock excess returns were negatively related to reductions in debt service payments and relaxation of dividend payment constraints. Thus, the evidence is consistent with theories predicting that certain debt refundings generate negative information-signaling price effects.
Onset of an outbreak of Bipolaris hawaiiensis fungal endophthalmitis after intravitreal injections of triamcinolone.

Purpose To report a series of cases with fungal endophthalmitis occurring after intravitreal injection of triamcinolone derived from a single lot prepared by a compounding pharmacy. Design Retrospective, observational case series. Participants Seventeen eyes treated with triamcinolone obtained from a single lot subsequently found to be contaminated with Bipolaris hawaiiensis . Methods A retrospective chart review in a single retina practice was performed for 15 patients (n = 17 eyes) who received intravitreal injections of triamcinolone obtained from a single compounding pharmacy. Medical records and cytologic and microbiologic results were reviewed from December 2011 through January 2013. Main Outcome Measures Visual acuity; presence of vitreous cell, anterior chamber cell, or both; and fungal detection in samples obtained by vitreous needle aspiration or vitreous biopsy. Results Fungal endophthalmitis developed in 82% (14/17) of eyes after intravitreal triamcinolone obtained from the same lot. Median onset was 83 days (range, 6–322 days). Preinjection visual acuity ranged from 20/20 to counting fingers (median, 20/50). Median visual acuity at last follow-up was 20/400 (range, 20/30–no light perception). The most common signs and symptoms included decreased vision (57% [8/14]), vitreous cell (64% [9/14]), and anterior chamber cell (50% [7/14]). Fungus was detected by cytologic or culture examination in 7% (1/14) from initial vitreous tap. By comparison, vitreous samples obtained by pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) resulted in fungus-positive cytologic results in 43% (6/14) of eyes and positive culture results in 36% (5/14) of eyes. All culture-positive specimens (100% [5/5]) were identified as B. hawaiiensis . Overall, fungal infection was confirmed in 57% (8/14) of eyes by either cytologic or microbiologic analysis. Conclusions Fungal endophthalmitis resulting from B. hawaiiensis developed in a series of eyes after intravitreal injections of triamcinolone obtained from a single compounding pharmacy. Clinical presentation of infection can be delayed up to 10 months. Vitreous tap may be inadequate, and direct vitreous biopsy by PPV may be preferred to identify fungal endophthalmitis and facilitate prompt diagnosis and treatment.
The nightward ion flow scenario at Venus revisited

We indicate how existing Pioneer Venus Orbiter (PVO) data might be used to gain a better understanding of nightward ion flow in the Venusian ionosphere. Calculations based on PVO measurements made at solar maximum suggest that the global nightward flow of O(+) may be signifcantly greater than is required to maintain the observed nightside ionosphere densities. The validity of this conclusion depends upon (1) the accuracy with which the flow can be determined from the PVO ion density and velocity measurements and (2) the validity of the ionosphere theory used to estimate the required downward O(+) flux on the night side. If the measurements and theory are assumed to be accurate, the excess nightward flow implies a significant rate of ion escape from the planet, particularly at times of low solar wind dynamic pressure, Psw, when the ionopause rises to allow increased nightward flow. To illustrate a potentially important mechanism for ion escape from Venus, we present Orbiter Electron Temperature Probe (OETP) observations of plasma clouds and scavenged ionospheric plasma observed above the ionopause. We then employ OETP and Orbiter Retarding Potential Analyzer (ORPA) data to reexamine the global ion flow for average Psw conditions.
INVERSE PROBLEM FOR HEAVY-ION ELASTIC SCATTERING AND THE CONNECTION BETWEEN PARAMETRIZED PHASE-SHIFT AND OPTICAL-POTENTIAL MODELS.

A method based on the JWKB approximation is presented for constructing a local potential from a complete set of complex phase shifts at a single energy. By introducing the Sabatier transformation the problem is reduced to solving an Abel integral equation, the solution of which is closely connected with the potential. The resulting optical potential is uniquely determined in the noncritical domain, and its range of validity is in keeping with the JWKB approximation. A direct connection between the phase shifts and the optical potential is thereby established. The above procedure is tested for the scattering of medium-energy \ensuremath{\alpha} particles, and it is found to be quite reliable over an angular range encompassing the diffraction region. Possible applications of the above method to the elastic scattering of medium-energy heavy ions are discussed.
A calorimetric determination of the specific power of plutonium-239

Abstract Calorimetric power measurements have been made on three smaples of high-purity 239 Pu metal using a twin heat-flow, thermopile-type calorimeter. The results, combined with data on the isotopic and chemical composition of the samples, give a value of 1.9287mW/g ( 239 Pu) for the specific power and a value of 24,102 yr for the half life of 239 Pu.
High-Temperature Tribological Properties of Plasma-Sprayed Metallic Coatings Containing Ceramic Particles

Plasma-sprayed metal-base coatings containing ceramic particles were considered for high-temperature sealing of a moving metal component with a dense silica-base ceramic preheated at 800 ‡C. Selected metal powders (NiCoCrAlY, CuNi, CuNiIn, Ag, Cu) and ceramic particles (boron nitride, Zeta-B ceramic) were agglomerated to form suitable spray powders. Plasma-sprayed composite coatings and reference materials were tested in a modified pinion-disk apparatus in which the stationary disk consisted of a dense silica-base ceramic piece initially heated at 800 ‡C and allowed to cool during tests. The influence of single exposure and repeated contact with ceramic material on coefficient of friction, wear loss, and damage to the ceramic piece was evaluated.
Polypropylene-Clay Nanocomposites Fibers Structure and Performance

Abstract Fibers from Polypropylene (PP) and polypropylene nanocomposite (PNC) were produced using a fiber spinning process. Various amounts of different clays were added to the PP matrix. The structure of PP and PNC fibers was evaluated using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and X-ray diffraction. The crystalline axes orientation factors were determined from wide-angle X-ray diffraction pole figures of (110) and (040) reflections for PP and of (001) for clay. The d-spacing of the (001) clay crystalline plane, indicative of the clay dispersion, was determined from the intensity −2 θ plots superimposed on the two dimensional X-ray diagrams. The results obtained for the d-spacing at small angles indicated that the clay in the PNC maintained its intercalated distance at low loadings whereas at higher loadings, some aggregation was observed. Results on orientation of the clay (001) axis (normal to the clay platelets plane) indicated that it was oriented perpendicular to the machine directio...
Measurement of hydrogen adsorption by the multipulse potentiodynamic (mpp) method

Abstract By means of the MPP method, it is possible to study hydrogen adsorption on an extremely reproducible platinum surface under well-defined conditions of mass-transport Non-repetitive linear potential-time sweeps of speeds up to 2000 V/sec result in readily-interpretable current-time traces. The addition of chloride ion to the solution is shown quantitatively not to affect the amount of hydrogen deposited at o.o or 0.06 V.
Rigidity and Energy

Suppose one holds two sticks in the form of a cross in one hand, and places a rubber band in tension around the four ends. When it is released, it comes to rest in the shape of a convex quadrilateral in a plane. It always returns to the same shape, no matter how it is distorted, as long as the ends do not slip, and the rubber band does not break. This is a very simple example of a "rigid" framework of the type we discuss here. Energy explains why a framework, such as the one above is rigid. The rubber band deforms in such a way as to minimize the total energy in the framework. Only in the final deformed shape will the framework have a minimum energy. This idea of introducing energy functions is very useful. It can be used to prove a key lemma that was used by Cauchy [5] in 1813 to show that "convex polyhedral surfaces" are rigid. It can explain why some, and perhaps all, of R. Buckminster Fuller's tensegrity structures [10] stay up. When applied to spider webs it shows why they can only take on certain geometric shapes. It also can be used to prove Conjecture 6 of Branko Gri inbaum and G.C. Shephard in their "Lectures on lost mathematics" [12]. This conjecture says that if a framework, in the shape of a convex polygon, with rods (sticks) on the boundary and cables inside, is rigid in the plane, so is the framework obtained by reversing the roles of rods and cables. It is interesting to compare some of these results with the "opening a rm" theorem of Axel Schur [18] (See Chern [6] also), which is a very close smooth analogue to Cauchy's lemma. Schur's theorem says that if a convex planar smooth arc (the arm) is opened, that is, it is moved to another position with the same length, but with corresponding points having smaller curvature, then the two ends are moved apart. Another amusing application is to show that a regular pentagon in 4-space, (a pentagon with all 5 sides equal and all 5 angles between the sides equal) has its angles bounded between 36 ~ and 108 ~ a comment of O. Bottema in [4].
Automated field testing of a track-type tractor

During the design process, earthmoving manufacturers routinely subject machines to rigorous, long-term tests to ensure quality. Automating portions of the testing process can potentially reduce the cost and time to complete these tests. We present a system that guides a 175 horsepower track-type tractor (Caterpillar Model D6R XL) along a prescribed route, allowing simple tasks to be completed by the automated machine while more complex tasks, such as site clean up, are handled by an operator. Additionally, the machine can be operated manually or via remote control and observed over the internet using a remote supervisor program. We envision that safety would be handled using work procedures, multiple over-ride methods and a GPS fence. The current system can follow turns within a half meter and straight sections within a quarter meter. The controller hardware and software are integrated with existing on-board electronic modules and allow for portability. The current system successfully handles the challenges of a clutch-brake drive train and has the potential to improve control over test variables, lower testing costs and enable testing at higher speeds allowing for higher impact tests than a human operator can tolerate.
Markov processes invariant under a Lie group action

Abstract We show that a Markov process in a manifold invariant under the action of a compact Lie group K induces a Levy process in each K -orbit by “forcing” it to run in the orbit.
Robust decisions in economic models

Abstract The minimax principle and a semiparametric characterization of the random states of nature are utilized here in the models of efficiency measurement by data envelopment analysis. These methods assume inadequate knowledge of the decision-maker about the random states of nature and develop a cautious optimal policy by testing if the chosen strategy or solution is very sensitive to the worst contingency that may arise. Some empirical applications to educational production functions show the usefulness of these operational methods.
Drosophila Dyrk2 plays a role in the development of the visual system.

The DYRKs (dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinases) are a conserved family of protein kinases that are associated with a number of neurological disorders, but whose biological targets are poorly understood. Drosophila encodes three Dyrks: minibrain/Dyrk1A, DmDyrk2, and DmDyrk3. Here we describe the creation and characterization of a DmDyrk2 null allele, DmDyrk21w17. We provide evidence that the smell impaired allele smi35A1, is likely to encode DmDyrk2. We also demonstrate that DmDyrk2 is expressed late in the developing third antennal segment, an anatomical structure associated with smell. In addition, we find that DmDyrk2 is expressed in the morphogenetic furrow of the developing eye, that loss of DmDyrk2 in the eye produced a subtle but measurable defect, and that ectopic DmDyrk2 expression in the eye produced a strong rough eye phenotype characterized by increased secondary, tertiary and bristle interommatidial cells. This phenotype was dependent on DmDyrk2 kinase activity and was only manifest when expressed in post-mitotic non-neuronal progenitors. Together, these data indicate that DmDyrk2 is expressed in developing sensory systems, that it is required for the development of the visual system, and that the eye is a good model to identify DmDyrk2 targets.
Cognitive differences between men and women: a comparison of patients with schizophrenia and healthy volunteers

Gender modulates cognition such that women display advantages in certain domains while men excel in others tasks. Similar patterns have been seen in patients with schizophrenia. We derived six cognitive factor domain scores from a cognitive battery and examined gender-based cognitive differences in patients with schizophrenia and controls. There were strikingly different effects of gender in patients as compared to controls. The large sample size and broad range of tests in our study add important findings to the neuropsychological literature of schizophrenia, which serve to reinforce some aspects of past research on gender differences in cognition, while questioning others.
The Avian Low Score Normal Muscle Weakness Alters Decorin Expression and Collagen Crosslinking

Extracellular matrix development of chicken pectoral muscle was examined in the Low Score Normal (LSN) genetic muscle weakness and compared to both normal and avian muscular dystrophy (MD). At 20 days of embryonic development significant elevations were noted in LSN total glycosaminoglycan concentration and decorin, while at 14 days, LSN glycosaminoglycan and decorin levels were indistinguishable from the controls. Levels of a large skeletal muscle chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan (M-CSPG) appeared to be unaffected. Morphologically, at 20 days, the extracellular matrix space between muscle fibers increased to a level characteristic to that observed in avian muscular dystrophy. At six weeks posthatch a marked increase in LSN collagen crosslinking relative to MD or control tissues was observed, while collagen concentration was not altered. By one year posthatch LSN collagen crosslink levels did not significantly differ from normal tissue. These data support the concept that the LSN muscle weakness is associ...
Hormones and Calcium Regulation in Fundulus heteroclitus

For the past 20 years, our laboratory has been involved in studying the endocrine control of calcium balance in the killifish, Fundulus heteroclitus . We have surveyed almost all endocrine systems and discovered two main ones directly involved in plasma calcium regulation. They are the pituitary gland and the corpuscles of Stannius. When fish adapted to low-calcium seawater were hypophysectomized, hypocalcemia and tetany were observed. When fish adapted to high-calcium seawater were Stanniectomized, hypercalcemia was seen. In both cases, other electrolytes were unaffected and replacement therapy corrected the plasma calcium changes. We have tried to characterize the active principles in both glands. We discovered that prolactin is hyperacalcemic. The pituitary gland also seems to contain a second hypercalcemic factor which may be located in the PAS-positive pars intermedia cells. For the Stannius corpuscle factors, we developed a bioassay and named the active substance(s) hypocalcin. In collaboration with Dr. Hirofumi Sokabe at Jichi Medical School, Japan, we showed that the Stannius corpuscles also contain a renin-like substance capable of generating a hypocalcemic angiotensin-like substance. The exact chemical nature of the hypocalcemic substance is being investigated. Calcium balance in the whole fish was also studied with 47-calcium. These studies were carried out in collaboration with Dr. Nicole Mayer-Gostan at Villefranche-sur-Mer, France. We discovered that killifish depend on the environment rather than bone as a calcium reservoir. Hormones may be involved in the exchanges with the environment.
Tile size selection revisited

Loop tiling is a widely used loop transformation to enhance data locality and allow data reuse. In the tiled code, however, tiles of different sizes can lead to significant variation in performance. Thus, selection of an optimal tile size is critical to performance of tiled codes. In the past, tile size selection has been attempted using both static analytical and dynamic empirical (auto-tuning) models. Past work using static models assumed a direct-mapped cache for the purpose of analysis and thus proved to be less robust. On the other hand, the auto-tuning models involve an exhaustive search in a large space of tiled codes. In this article, we propose a new analytical model for tile size selection that leverages the high set associativity in modern caches to minimize conflict misses. Our tile size selection model targets data reuse in multiple levels of cache. In addition, it considers the interaction of tiling with the SIMD unit in modern processors in estimating the optimal tile size. We find that these factors, not considered in previous models, are critical in developing a robust model for tile size selection. We implement our tile size selection model in a polyhedral compiler and test it on 12 benchmark kernels using two different problem sizes. Our model outperforms the previous analytical models that are based on reusing data in a single level of cache and achieves an average performance improvement of 9.7p and 20.4p, respectively, over the best square (cubic) tiles for the two problem sizes. In addition, the tile size chosen by our tile size selection algorithm is similar to the best performing size obtained through an extensive search, validating the analytical model underlying the algorithm.
Temperature dependence of CO2 concentration gradient within polymer films as determined by reactive templating

Abstract The swelling of thin polymer films by supercritical carbon dioxide has been shown to exhibit an anomalous maximum in the sorption isotherms. This swelling maximum occurs when the activity of the fluid phase approaches unity and the extent of the swelling increases as the critical temperature is approached. Using an in situ selective reactive templating approach based upon silica condensation within hydrophilic domains of an amphiphilic polymer film, the CO2 distribution within the polymer film is elucidated from the pore sizes generated by hydrophobic domains upon removal of the amphiphile. The origin of the maximum in the swelling of the thin films is demonstrated to be concentration gradients that extend from both interfaces of the film; as the temperature approaches the critical temperature, the local swelling at both interfaces increases progressively. However, the pressure range over which gradients in CO2 concentration occurs decreases as the critical temperature for CO2 is approached.
Is classical electrodynamics an inconsistent theory

A critical discussion of Mathias Frisch's recent book. I discuss Frisch's argument for the inconsistency of classical electrodynamcis and the methodological morals that he draws from it.
Role for Neutral Sphingomyelinase-2 in Tumor Necrosis Factor α-Stimulated Expression of Vascular Cell Adhesion Molecule-1 (VCAM) and Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 (ICAM) in Lung Epithelial Cells: p38 MAPK IS AN UPSTREAM REGULATOR OF nSMase2 *

Neutral sphingomyelinases (N-SMases) are major candidates for stress-induced ceramide production. However, there is little information on the physiological regulation and roles of the cloned N-SMase enzyme, nSMase2. In this study, nSMase2 was found to translocate acutely to the plasma membrane of A549 epithelial cells in response to tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Additionally, TNF-α increased N-SMase activity rapidly and transiently both endogenously and in cells overexpressing nSMase2. Furthermore, the translocation of nSMase2 was regulated by p38-α MAPK, but not ERK or JNK, and the increase in endogenous N-SMase activity was abrogated by p38 MAPK inhibition. In addition, both p38-α MAPK and nSMase2 were implicated in the TNF-α-stimulated up-regulation of the adhesion proteins vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM) and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM), but this was largely independent of NF-κB activation. These data reveal p38 MAPK as an upstream regulator of nSMase2 and indicate a role for nSMase2 in pro-inflammatory responses induced by TNF-α as a regulator of adhesion proteins.
13C-19F Dipolar Dephasing in Monofluorinated Organic Substances. Characterization by 1H-13C-19F Triple-Resonance 13C CP/MAS and 19F MAS NMR

Abstract The conventional solid-state CP/MAS 13C NMR spectra of nonpolymeric monofluorinated organic substances exhibit dramatic homogeneous broadening of resonances of those carbons in close spatial proximity to the magnetic dipole moment of the 19F nucleus. Resonances of carbons directly bonded to 19F can broaden beyond recognition. 13C-19F dipolar dephasing is the 13CT2 relaxation pathway and is promoted by efficient 19F magnetization diffusion. 19F and 13CT2 values have been measured directly to delineate these processes. The principal broadening occurs through the 13C-19F dipolar interaction and has an r−3 carbon-fluorine internuclear distance dependence. The 13C-19F dipolar-dephased 13C spectrum edits the full 1H, 19F doubly di-polar-decoupled spectrum, using the strength of the 13C-19F di-polar interaction as the editing criteria. The 13C-19F dipolar-dephasing experiment constitutes a highly selective method for fluoride functional group determination under high-resolution conditions. The coincident application of resonant 19F and 1H dipolar decoupling diminishes relaxation broadening in the 13C spectrum. 19F decoupling offsets of 10-15 kHz can result in 13C linewidths that are an order of magnitude larger than those measured with optimum decoupling. This dependence and the large 19F chemical-shift range of organofluorine resonances prevent the uniform suppression or elimination of broadening in substances containing multiple, widely separated 19F resonances. Concurrent 1H and 19F decoupling must be an integral feature of high-resolution CP/MAS 13C experiments on fluorinated organic materials performed at routine (
Effects of hypothyroidism on the response of the rat colon to morphine

Abstract Isolated terminal colon strips obtained from rats, made hypothyroid by methimazole treatment, were almost completely insensitive to the contractile effects of morphine as compared to strips from control animals. This low morphine sensitivity was accompanied by a significant (40%) reduction in the tissue sulfatide content. Although colon strips from hypothyroid rats showed a reduction of the contractile effects of acetylcholine, the decrease was considerably less than that noted for morphine. The addition of 6.6 × 10−5 M tri-iodothyronine to colons from hypothyroid rats largely restored the tissue sensitivity to morphine. These results suggest that sulfatides could be linked to the in vitro effects of morphine in the colon.
The electrophysiological effects of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide in the guinea-pig inferior mesenteric ganglion.

1. The effects of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) on the inferior mesenteric ganglion of the guinea-pig were studied in vitro. 2. In 67% of the neurones tested, application of VIP (1-7.5 X 10(-5) M) by pressure ejection caused a depolarization of the membrane potential which averaged 8.6 +/- 0.4 mV. 3. In 52% of the cells that were responsive to VIP, the membrane depolarization was accompanied by a decrease in membrane input resistance. In another 48% of the cells tested, there was an increase in membrane input resistance. 4. Membrane depolarization caused by VIP enhanced the excitability of post-ganglionic neurones and converted subthreshold electrotonic and subthreshold synaptic potentials to action potentials. 5. The effects of VIP persisted during nicotinic and muscarinic synaptic blockade. The effects of VIP also persisted in a low-Ca2+, high-Mg2+ solution. Thus, the site of action of VIP was on the postsynaptic membrane. 6. Electrical stimulation of the lumbar colonic nerves evoked a slow noncholinergic depolarization of the membrane potential. 7. VIP appeared to be one of the transmitters involved in the electrically evoked e.p.s.p. because both prior desensitization with exogenous VIP and VIP antiserum reduced the amplitude of the slow, non-cholinergic e.p.s.p. 8. Radial distension of a segment of colon attached to the inferior mesenteric ganglion (i.m.g.) evoked a non-cholinergic depolarization of the membrane potential in neurones in the i.m.g. 9. The distension-induced non-cholinergic depolarization was reduced by VIP antiserum. 10. The data support the hypothesis that a population of the mechanosensory afferent nerves running between the colon and the i.m.g. utilize VIP or a VIP-like peptide as a transmitter to modulate reflex activity between the colon and the i.m.g.
Automatic measurement of intereference photographs from the ultracentrifuge

Abstract With a computer-linked densitometer and an algorithm built around the Fourier transform, it is possible to automate the reading of Rayleigh interference patterns such as those obtained from an analytical ultracentrifuge. Measurements of fringe position are at least as precise as data collected manually.
Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia: Respiratory Choke or Unactivated Substrate?

Defects in the mitochondrial AAA protease family member, paraplegin, result in an autosomal recessive form of hereditary spastic paraplegia (HSP). In this issue of Cell, Nolden et al. (2005) report a new molecular mechanism for HSP based on the requirement of paraplegin for the proteolysis of a specific mitochondrial ribosomal protein. The processing of this substrate is required for robust translation in mitochondria.
Control of adaptive immunity by the innate immune system

Microbial infections are recognized by the innate immune system both to elicit immediate defense and to generate long-lasting adaptive immunity. To detect and respond to vastly different groups of pathogens, the innate immune system uses several recognition systems that rely on sensing common structural and functional features associated with different classes of microorganisms. These recognition systems determine microbial location, viability, replication and pathogenicity. Detection of these features by recognition pathways of the innate immune system is translated into different classes of effector responses though specialized populations of dendritic cells. Multiple mechanisms for the induction of immune responses are variations on a common design principle wherein the cells that sense infections produce one set of cytokines to induce lymphocytes to produce another set of cytokines, which in turn activate effector responses. Here we discuss these emerging principles of innate control of adaptive immunity.
Positive endocochlear potential: mechanism of production by marginal cells of stria vascularis.

Abstract The positive endocochlear potential (EP+) and high K+ concentration of the endolymph in the scala media of the mammalian cochlea are unusual. They have long been assumed to be due to a putative K-pump in the luminal membrane of the marginal cells of the stria vascularis, which were believed to have a negative internal potential. We show that the cell potential is more positive than the EP+, and that the ion pump is conventional Na,K-ATPase, probably in the basolateral membrane. The latter was determined from experiments in which the ionic environment of the striai cells was controlled by perfusion of the perilymphatic space of the cochlea, in the absence of vascular circulation. While the usual EP+ was maintained by normal perfusate, replacement of Na+ by choline resulted in a negative EP, showing that Na,K-ATPase is necessary for the production of EP+ Elimination of K+ as well as Na+ from the perfusate did not change the value of the negative EP, showing that no K-ATPase is involved.
Hints on distributing portable software

Would-be implementors of portable software often encounter frustrating difficulties when attempting to enter the distributed text into their computers. This paper summarizes various problems which may arise, and indicates how the distributor can head them off. The conventions used by several successful distributors are given to illustrate possible solutions.
Individual differences and early school adjustment: teacher appraisals of young children with special needs

Individual differences in temperament and personality influence children's development of self‐regulation, social relationships, and adaptation within varied contexts. For young children with disabilities and/or family poverty, early school experiences provide both significant challenges and opportunities. In this study, teachers rated the temperament‐related and personality‐related behaviors and school adjustment of 176 children with special needs, ages 3–9 years. Overall, temperament dimensions of Negative Emotionality, Task Persistence, Inhibition, and Activity explained 58% of the variance in children's school adjustment ratings. The broader personality dimensions of Extraversion, Manageability, and Openness/Conscientiousness accounted for 71% of school adjustment ratings. These findings support the inclusion of individual difference assessments in intervention planning by interdisciplinary teams to enhance the ‘goodness‐of‐fit’ for young children at risk for school adjustment problems. Early interven...
Intel flash EPROM for in-system reprogrammable nonvolatile storage

Abstract For years engineers have suffered frustration at the hands of the EPROM. EPROMs provide a cost-effective way of storing large amounts of firmware in a digital system, but are inconvenient to program and reprogram. They have to be taken out of a system, erased in a UV enclosure and then reprogrammed in a dedicated EPROM programmer. Engineers can now use the flash EPROM to store firmware. This is a modified EPROM that can be erased electronically. Consequently, it is possible to build a flash EPROM into a system and erase and reprogram it without removing it from the system. Flash EPROMs offer the same capacity as the conventional EPROM and are not limited to small capacities like the EEPROM. This application note introduces the flash EPROM and describes its operating principles. Since it requires an accurate V PP supply for programming, the application note describes several ways of generating an on-board V PP . The final part demonstrates how flash EPROM can be used in a simple microcomputer based on the 80C186.
Diphenylhydantoin effects on hexobarbital and aniline biotransformation in male rats: differences between in vitro and in vivo observations.

Abstract Diphenylhydantoin sodium (DPH), 100 mg/kg/day ip for 3 days did not stimulate in vitro hepatic microsomal hexobarbital and aniline biotransformation in male rats. DPH treatment significantly increased liver to body weight ratio and thus indicated a possible influence on drug metabolism in vivo. Hexobarbital plasma concentrations 2 hr after hexobarbital, 200 mg/kg ip, were significantly lower in DPH-pretreated rats than in control rats. Elimination of p-aminophenol after aniline hydrochloride, 40 mg/kg, ip injections was also significantly greater in DPH-pretreated rats. These differences between in vitro and in vivo studies indicate that observation under in vivo conditions is essential for correct understanding and interpretation of in vitro results.
Tooth, hair and claw: Comparing epithelial stem cell niches of ectodermal appendages

The vertebrate ectoderm gives rise to organs that produce mineralized or keratinized substances, including teeth, hair, and claws. Most of these ectodermal derivatives grow continuously throughout the animal׳s life and have active pools of adult stem cells that generate all the necessary cell types. These organs provide powerful systems for understanding the mechanisms that enable stem cells to regenerate or renew ectodermally derived tissues, and remarkable progress in our understanding of these systems has been made in recent years using mouse models. We briefly compare what is known about stem cells and their niches in incisors, hair follicles, and claws, and we examine expression of Gli1 as a potential example of a shared stem cell marker. We summarize some of the features, structures, and functions of the stem cell niches in these ectodermal derivatives; definition of the basic elements of the stem cell niches in these organs will provide guiding principles for identification and characterization of the niche in similar systems.
Mutational and physical analysis of F plasmid traY protein binding to oriT

Summary F plasmid traY protein binding to wild-type or deleted regions containing the TraY-binding site, sbyA, was studied in vitro. The principal DNA-protein complex was formed with DNA segments including the sbyA site defined by footprinting and (with lesser affinity) with truncated segments that retained the leftward two-thirds of sbyA. This located the major sequence determinants for TraY binding between bp 204 and 227 on the oriT map. For all sequences tested, bound TraY induced bending of approximateiy 50 to 55°, and centred between bp 214 and 221. Thermodynamic and mobility analyses indicated that two TraY protomers bind to sbyA. At higher TraY concentrations, additional TraY bound to the left of the sbyA in a region previously shown to bind IHF (site IHF A). TraY binding to this additional site (sbyC) was inhibited by IHF. Sequence similarities shared by sbyA, sbyB, and SbyC may include the critical base pairs for TraY binding.
Evaluation of the reproducibility of lung motion probability distribution function (PDF) using dynamic MRI.

Treatment planning based on probability distribution function (PDF) of patient geometries has been shown a potential off-line strategy to incorporate organ motion, but the application of such approach highly depends upon the reproducibility of the PDF. In this paper, we investigated the dependences of the PDF reproducibility on the imaging acquisition parameters, specifically the scan time and the frame rate. Three healthy subjects underwent a continuous 5 min magnetic resonance (MR) scan in the sagittal plane with a frame rate of approximately 10 f s−1, and the experiments were repeated with an interval of 2 to 3 weeks. A total of nine pulmonary vessels from different lung regions (upper, middle and lower) were tracked and the dependences of their displacement PDF reproducibility were evaluated as a function of scan time and frame rate. As results, the PDF reproducibility error decreased with prolonged scans and appeared to approach equilibrium state in subjects 2 and 3 within the 5 min scan. The PDF accuracy increased in the power function with the increase of frame rate; however, the PDF reproducibility showed less sensitivity to frame rate presumably due to the randomness of breathing which dominates the effects. As the key component of the PDF-based treatment planning, the reproducibility of the PDF affects the dosimetric accuracy substantially. This study provides a reference for acquiring MR-based PDF of structures in the lung.
Cavitary Carcinoma of the Lung: Roentgenologic Features in 19 Cases

Carcinoma should always be considered seriously in the diagnosis of any cavitary lesion of the lung, especially if the patient is more than 40 years old and if the lesion is large and if there is no calcification roentgenologically demonstrable in the lesion or in the neighboring parenchyma of the lung. Cytologic examination of the sputum and bronchoscopic biopsy may provide a definite diagnosis of carcinoma. A cavitary carcinoma does not always have a thick wall. The presence of a mural nodule is strong evidence in favor of malignancy. Roentgenologic examination does not provide a certain diagnosis of carcinoma, but proper evaluation of the existing treatment of a neoplasm that is better treated by surgical removal.
Genetic polymorphism of Fc.

J. M. Woof's Perspective “Tipping the scales toward more effective antibodies” (2 Dec. 2005, p. 1442) presents a good commentary on how Fcγ receptors (FcγR) could contribute to the observed variation in immunoglobulin G (IgG) subclass responses to pathogens and tumor antigens. The author
Effects of natural gas composition on ignition delay under diesel conditions

Effects of variations in natural gas composition on the autoignition of natural gas under direct-injection (DI) diesel engine conditions were studied experimentally in a constant-volume combustion vessel and computationally using a chemical kinetic model. Four fuel blends were investigated: pure methane, a capacity-weighted mean natural gas, a high-ethane-content natural gas, and a natural gas with added propane typical of peak shaving conditions. Experimentally measured ignition delays were longest for pure methane and became progressively shorter as ethane and propane concentrations increased. At conditions characteristic of a DI compression ignition natural gas engine at Top Dead Center (CR = 23 : 1, p = 6.8 MPa, T = 1150 K), measured ignition delays for the four fuels varied from 1.8 ms for the peak shaving and high ethane gases to 2.7 ms for pure methane. A computational model, incorporating detailed chemical kinetics of oxidation of methane, ethane, propane and other small hydrocarbons was used to predict the influences of fuel composition on ignition, focusing on the four fuel types considered in the experimental study. Numerically predicted variations in ignition delay as a function of natural gas composition agreed with these measurements. The model results are used to interpret the kinetic factors responsible for the observations.
Guided-Mode Resonant Broadband Reflector in TE Polarization Using Subwavelength Two-Part Gratings

TE polarization broadband reflector using subwavelength two-part gratings and nanometric homogeneous layer of a-Si on quartz is reported. Representative reflector exhibits 99% reflectance over a 380-nm spectral range (1440-1820 nm). Experimental reflectance >90% is achieved over a ~360-nm bandwidth.
Interaction of a quantum well with squeezed light: Quantum-statistical properties

We investigate the quantum statistical properties of the light emitted by a quantum well interacting with squeezed light from a degenerate subthreshold optical parametric oscillator. We obtain analytical solutions for the pertinent quantum Langevin equations in the strong-coupling and low-excitation regimes. Using these solutions we calculate the intensity spectrum, autocorrelation function, and quadrature squeezing for the fluorescent light. We show that the fluorescent light exhibits bunching and quadrature squeezing. We also show that the squeezed light leads to narrowing of the width of the spectrum of the fluorescent light.
Designing high-power components for optical telecommunications

The need for higher bandwidth in telecommunication systems is driving the development of higher power amplifiers, both EDFAs and Raman systems. This means the optical components incorporated in these amplifiers and systems must be able to withstand high power operation. In the 1400-1600-nm wavelength region, greater than 1 W of optical power is required, and in the 980-nm pump region greater than 500 mW is required. After exploring the applications for high power components, this paper discusses short and long-term failure modes that have been discovered to date. These failure modes are mainly concerned with the quality of the fiber tip and subsequent anti-reflection (AR) coatings. Component designs to eliminate these failures will be presented along with proposed tests to assure they can withstand these, and ever increasing high optical power requirements for reliable, long-term operation.
26Al survey of Antarctic meteorites

Abstract An 26 Al survey by non-destructive gamma ray spectrometry was conducted as part of the preliminary examination effort for Antarctic meteorites. A total of 220 samples were studied. The majority of the samples were from the Allan Hills area; however, samples from several other sites, including the Yamato Mountains, were studied. Compared to worldwide falls and finds, the Antarctic group shows a clear trend toward lower 26 Al levels. At leasr 10% of the samples studied were clearly undersaturated in 26 Al. The frequency of undersaturated samples suggests that terrestrial ages of several hundred thousand years are common among the Antarctic meteorite collection. The absence of samples with extremely low 26 Al implies that the upper limit for terrestrial ages in the Antarctic is on the order of 1 million years.
Melody retrieval on the web

This paper explores issues involved in a web-based query-by-humming system, which can find a piece of music in the digital music repository based on hummed melodies. Melody representation, melody matching, melody extraction and query construction are critical for an efficient and robust query-by-humming system and thus the focuses of this paper. Compared to previous systems, a new and more effective melody representation and corresponding melody matching methods which combined both pitch and rhythmic information were adopted, a whole set of tools and deliverable software were implemented, and experiments were conducted to evaluate the system. The experimental results demonstrate that our methods are more effective for most users than other existing methods.
Histochemical Use of Sodium Bismuthate

Histochemical 1,2-glycoI cleavage, similar to that obtained with periodic acid and lead tetraacetate, may be obtained with sodium bismuthate. Routinely prepared slide sections, from tissues fixed in 10% formalin, are run down through xylene and graded alcohols to water and then oxidized for three minutes in a 1% sodium bismuthate 20% aqueous phosphoric acid solution. The oxidizing solution must be freshly prepared and used immediately. Following oxidation, sections are rinsed 15 sec. in IN HC1 to remove bismuth pentoxide precipitate, a by-product of the reaction. The sections are then washed in distilled water and placed in leuco-fushsin for 10 min., or in a saturated 30%) alcoholic solution of p-nitrophenylhydrazine for 5 min. or 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine for 30 minutes. After staining, the sections are rinsed in 30% alcohol if the nitrophenylhydrazines were used, or in the standard dilute sulfite bath followed by running tap water for 5 min. if leucofuchsin were used. Sections are routinely dehydrated,...
Accretion-Disk Modeling of the UV Spectrum of Quasars

The thin accretion disk spectrum, including the effect of electron scattering, is calculated for a grid of the accretion parameters. It is shown that the luminosity and spectral slope in the UV and optical bands are uniquely determined by these parameters and depend only weakly on the viscosity parameter. When the model calculations are compared with observations of a sample of QSOs and Seyfert 1 nuclei, the black hole mass is in the range 10 to the 8th to 10 to the 9.5 solar for the QSOs and 10 to the 7.5 to 10 to the 8.5 solar for the Seyferts and for low-luminosity objects. The correlation between the spectral slope and luminosity of QSOs in the UV can be explained by evolution along curves of constant black hole mass and decreasing accretion rate. The relation between the spectrum and the accretion parameters can be used to constrain the cosmological evolution of the objects and imposes severe constraints on the pure luminosity evolution interpretation function for QSOs and Seyferts.
Multiwavelength observations of blazars: a summary

Because of their broad-band nature, multiwavelength observations of blazars are crucial to constrain the emission mechanisms, structure, and physical quantities of the inner jet on parsec and sub-parsec scales. Here I briefly review selected multiwavelength observations of blazars with a particular emphasis on sources detected at GeV and TeV gamma-rays. Their properties are discussed in the frame of the blazar “luminosity sequence”.
Improving ecological simulation through sensitivity analysis

Ecosystem models require extensive data for initial ization and calibration. Since data collection is expensive and time-consuming, it should be guided by knowledge of the model's sensitivity to initial con ditions, coefficients, and update intervals. These factors were studied using an ecological model of a reservoir. For this model, it was found that(a) biological and chemical variables need to be considered in addition to temperature during calibra tion, (b) changes in the effective diffusion coeffi cients produce the greatest changes in the model's responses, (c) nutrient update intervals of less than one week yield results similar to those for one week but dissimilar to those for two weeks or one month, and (d) nutrient concentrations strongly affect the model's sensitivity to small changes in a number of coefficients.
Short term memory demands in processing synthetic speech by old and young adults

Abstract This experiment investigated the demands synthetic speech places on short term memory by comparing performance of old and young adults on an ordinary short term memory task. Items presented were generated by a human speaker or by a computer based text-to-speech synthesizer. Results were consistent with the idea that the comprehension of synthetic speech imposes increased resource demands on the short term memory system. Older subjects performed significantly more poorly than younger subjects, and both groups performed more poorly with synthetic than with human speech. Findings suggest that short term memory demands imposed by the processing of synthetic speech should be investigated further, particularly regarding the implementation of voice response systems in devices for the elderly.
Instructing Facilitators to Support the Communication of People Who Use Augmentative Communication Systems

A single-subject multiple-baseline design, replicated across three dyads, was used to examine the efficacy of instructing facilitators (i.e., significant others) to promote communication with peopl...
On-road measurement of automotive particle emissions by ultraviolet Lidar and transmissometer: theory

An on-road vehicle emissions remote sensing system (VERSS) utilizing an ultraviolet laser (operating at a wavelength of 266 nm) has been developed to quantify the particulate mass in vehicle exhaust. The system simultaneously measures the backscatter and the transmission of the laser light. Obtaining the particulate matter mass concentration from the measurements depends upon a prior laboratory calibration as well as knowledge of the physical, chemical and optical characteristics of the exhaust particles.