cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Overconfidence in initial self-efficacy judgments: effects on decision processes and performance

Abstract Judgments of task-specific, expected performance (i.e., self-efficacy) can affect the activities one chooses to pursue and the extent of effort devoted to these activities. However, relatively little is known about the accuracy of self-efficacy judgments or their effects on behavior, performance, and perceptions of performance in complex cognitive tasks. The results of a pilot study and experiment indicate that initial, "first-impression" self-efficacy judgments made in cognitively complex tasks are biased toward overestimates of personal ability (i.e., "overconfidence"). The experiment manipulated performance expectations to illuminate how overestimates of initial self-efficacy affect decision making. Inducing positive expectations produced overconfidence in choice accuracy, but did not increase effort, attention to strategy, or performance relative to mildly negative and strongly negative expectations. In contrast, inducing mildly negative expectations increased effort, attention to strategy, and performance relative to strongly negative expectations. The results suggest that the demotivational effects of initial negative expectations are more robust than the motivational effects of initial positive expectations. ln addition, inducing mildly negative expectations may improve performance more than positive expectations in at least some tasks and settings.
Leveraging the Internet to Promote Fine Art: Perspectives of Art Patrons

Because of the Internet's increasing influence, gallery owners are embracing online marketing. Art dealers have expanded their galleries by venturing online to reach collectors and sometimes artists. Because purchasing art differs from most commercial transactions in that it is part social event, part public contribution, and part intellectual exchange, selling art differs from that of other commodities. In this study, the authors examine the interaction between art patrons and fine-art Web sites by recording their reactions to questions after they viewed 140 gallery sites selected from the Internet Art Directory of 2006. The authors' approach builds on research that evaluates the persuasiveness of e-commerce Web sites through the adaptation of Aristotelian rhetoric using factors that are salient to consumer attitudes and intentions when shopping via the Internet (Winn and Beck 2002; Jarvenpaa and Todd 1996). This construct was successfully tested as it applies to egalleries: an informative site (logos) e...
Stochastic Properties of Ca2+ Release of Inositol 1,4,5-Trisphosphate Receptor Clusters

Intracellular Ca(2+) release is controlled by inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP(3)) receptors or ryanodine receptors. These receptors are typically distributed in clusters with several or tens of channels. The random opening and closing of these channels introduces stochasticity into the elementary calcium release mechanism. Stochastic release events have been experimentally observed in a variety of cell types and have been termed sparks and puffs. We put forward a stochastic version of the Li-Rinzel model (the deactivation binding process is described by a Markovian scheme) and a computationally more efficient Langevin approach to model the stochastic Ca(2+) oscillation of single clusters. Statistical properties such as Ca(2+) puff amplitudes, lifetimes, and interpuff intervals are studied with both models and compared with experimental observations. For clusters with tens of channels, a simply decaying amplitude distribution is typically observed at low IP(3) concentration, while a single peak distribution appears at high IP(3) concentration.
Anger Perception, Caregivers’ Use of Physical Discipline, and Aggression in Children at Risk

We analyzed the relations between teacher reports of aggressive behaviors, caregiver reports of their use of physical discipline, anger perception accuracy, and anger perception bias in middle childhood and teacher reports of aggressive behaviors two years later in a sample of children from economically disadvantaged families (n =152). Fisher r-to-z analyses showed a gender difference in the relation between anger perception accuracy and aggressive behavior in third grade. For girls, anger perception accuracy was significantly negatively related to aggression, and for boys, there was no relation between anger perception accuracy and aggression. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses showed that third grade aggressive behavior, caregivers’ reports of their use of physical discipline, and anger perception bias were significantly positively related to teacher reports of aggressive behavior two years later after controlling for gender and anger perception accuracy.
Reliability Study of Holographic Optical Elements Made with DuPont Photopolymer.

We report reliability-test results of transmission-type holographic optical elements (HOE’s) made with the DuPont photopolymer HRF-600. The reliability tests performed include 6000 cycles of liquid-to-liquid thermal-shock cycling (-55 °C–125 °C), 2200 cycles of air-to-air thermal cycling (-55 °C–125 °C), 1500 h of humidity testing (85 °C and a relative humidity of 85%), and 675 h of burn-in testing at 125 °C. A total of 210 holograms was tested, with 532 data points collected for diffraction-efficiency measurements. The results show that the average efficiency change after these tests is in the range of -4% to 0% and the standard deviation is only ∼10%.
Cytokine‐dependent regulation of growth and maturation in murine epidermal dendritic cell lines

We have recently established dendritic cell (DC) lines (XS series) from the epidermis of newborn mice by repeated feeding with granulocyte/macrophage-colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and culture supernatants from skin-derived stromal cell lines (NS series). XS lines resemble resident Langerhans cell (LC), which are immature DC that reside in epidermis, by their surface phenotype and antigen-presenting profile. XS lines further resemble resident LC in that they express mRNA for interleukin-1 beta and macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1 alpha, and by the absence of mRNA for IL-6. Their growth is promoted by GM-CSF, colony-stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1), or NS culture supernatant, and inhibited by interferon-gamma or tumor necrosis factor-alpha. The expression by the XS lines of Ia molecules is up-regulated by GM-CSF, and down-regulated by NS supernatant. These results suggest the existence of negative regulatory mechanisms in which the growth and/or maturation of DC is suppressed by selected cytokines.
School Interventions After the Joplin Tornado

Background/Objective To qualitatively describe interventions by schools to meet children's needs after the May 2011 Joplin, Missouri tornado. METHODS: Qualitative exploratory study conducted six months after the tornado. Key informant interviews with school staff (teachers, psychologists, guidance counselor, nurse, principal), public health official, and physicians. Report After the tornado, school staff immediately worked to contact every enrolled child to provide assistance and coordinate recovery services. Despite severe damage to half of the city's schools, the decision was made to reopen schools at the earliest possible time to provide a safe, reassuring environment and additional services. An expanded summer school session emphasized child safety and emotional wellbeing. The 2011-2012 school year began on time, less than three months after the disaster, using temporary facilities. Displaced children were bused to their usual schools regardless of their new temporary residence locations. In just-in-time training sessions, teachers developed strategies to support students and staff experiencing anxiety or depression. Certified counselors conducted school-based, small-group counseling for students. Selective referrals were made to community mental health providers for children with greatest needs. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence from Joplin adds to a small body of empirical experience demonstrating the important contribution of schools to postdisaster community recovery. Despite timely and proactive services, many families and children struggled after the tornado. Improvements in the effectiveness of postdisaster interventions at schools will follow from future scientific evidence on optimal approaches. Kanter RK , Abramson D. School interventions after the Joplin tornado. Prehosp Disaster Med. 2014;29(2):1-4. Language: en
Statins Benefit Outcomes of Renal Transplant Recipients on a Sirolimus-Cyclosporine Regimen

Abstract Background Statins offer a strategy to address dyslipidemia commonly experienced by immunosuppressed transplant recipients. Methods This single-center, retrospective study of 325 recipients (mean posttransplant follow-up of over 6 years; 75.0 ± 26.0 months) correlated four adverse outcomes—biopsy-confirmed acute rejection episodes, biopsy-confirmed chronic rejection/allograft nephropathy, graft loss, or death—with demographic and posttreatment variables. Patients were treated with a combination of sirolimus (SRL), cyclosporine (CsA), and various durations of steroids. Statins were prescribed for 259/325 (79%) recipients whose serum cholesterol exceeded 240 mg/dL and discontinued when the creatine phosphokinase increased fivefold (3.4%) or the liver function, threefold (3.0%) above normal. Results Upon univariate (hazard ratio [HR] 0.16; P P = .02), statins were markedly protective against acute rejection episodes. They reduced occurrence of chronic nephropathy/chronic rejection (HR 0.60; P = .03 and HR 0.52; P = .01, respectively). Incidences of graft loss were diminished (HR 0.26; P P = .01, respectively). Finally, the mortality rate was decreased (HR 0.21, P = .001 and HR 0.26, P = .01, respectively). Upon multivariate analysis, a reduced incidence of acute rejection was correlated with greater exposure to SRL (HR 0.78, P = .016) and CsA (HR 0.39; P = .006). Conclusions This study demonstrated compelling effects of statins against all adverse outcomes among patients treated with SRL-based, CsA-containing regimens. The profoundly dyslipidemic properties of SRL may explain these unique findings compared with previous studies on patients treated with CsA-based regimens.
Acute lung injury and the acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Objective To review acute lung injury (ALI) and the acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in light of recent information about the definitions, epidemiology, pathophysiology, management, and outcome of these conditions. Data sources The author's personal files as well as the computerized MEDLINE database. STUDY SOLUTION: Studies were selected for their relevance to the conditions of ALI and ARDS. Data extraction The author extracted all applicable data. Data synthesis The diagnostic criteria for ALI and ARDS include a) acute onset; b) bilateral chest radiographic infiltrates; c) a pulmonary artery occlusion pressure of Conclusion ALI and ARDS are better defined and understood than ever before, and their outcome has improved for unclear reasons.
The effect of time and extraction buffers on residual protein and allergen content of extracts derived from four strains of Alternaria

Abstract Background: A series of studies was performed to identify optimal elution conditions for production of desired Alternaria allergens with simultaneous reduction of undesired ones. Methods: Proteins and allergens from four strains of Alternaria extracted for differing time intervals and in different buffers were analyzed by one- and two-dimensional electrophoresis, as well as by immunoglobulin E enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay inhibition and immunoblotting. Results: The amount of protein and carbohydrate released varied with each time interval but was consistent between buffers. Extracts from longer time intervals tended to contain more carbohydrate. Electrophoresis of the four strains demonstrated many similar proteins; however, the concentrations of these proteins showed considerable interstrain difference. Comparison of extraction times for single strains by immunoblotting showed that certain allergens are preferentially released during specific time intervals. Some allergens were seen to be most prevalent in a 24-hour extract, whereas others were most prevalent in a 1-hour extract. Two-dimensional electrophoresis resolved bands into discrete spots. The major shared elements of the four strains could be easily identified. The appearance and disappearance of individual protein elements with time was seen. Conclusions: Elution conditions have a significant impact on quantities of specific glycoproteins contained in extracts of Alternaria and must be controlled and optimized when such extracts are produced for allergen purification.
Exploring language in software process elicitation: A grounded theory approach

This paper presents the results of exploratory research that investigated how people describe software processes in natural language. We conducted a small field study with four participants working at an IT Help Desk. We elicited and documented a trouble ticketing process using a template under conditions similar to that of many process improvement initiatives. This study included two treatments. In the first treatment, the process engineer elicited information and documented the process. In the second treatment, the participants used the template to document the process on their own. The resulting data, including the process representations, observation field notes, and interview transcripts, were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. The results suggest that there are distinct ways in which process users describe process. We construct a theory that posits that descriptions of process are dependent upon perspectives shaped by the elicitation and process context. Future research will focus on the evaluation of this theory relative to other elicitation approaches and contexts.
An evolutionary framework to sample near-native protein conformations

Structural characterization of the protein native state is an important problem in computational biology. Thermodynamically, the native state is that of lowest free energy in the protein conformational space [1]. Predicting it ab initio from the amino-acid sequence can be posed as an optimization problem that has proven to be NP-hard [2]. Due to imperfect modeling of interatomic interactions, the native state often does not correspond to the global minimum. As a result, the goal in ab-initio protein structure prediction is to first arrive at a diverse ensemble of low-energy (decoy) conformations potentially relevant for the native state. Decoys are often computed using a coarse-grained energy function that expedites sampling of low-energy conformations. Select decoys are then refined with heavy-duty protocols using fine-grained energy functions to allow prediction of the native state.
Optimal design of a composite structure

This paper presents a design methodology for a laminated composite stiffened panel, subjected to multiple in-plane loads and bending moments. Design variables include the skin and stiffener ply orientation angles and stiffener geometry variables. Optimum designs are sought which minimize structural weight and satisfy mechanical performance requirements. Two types of mechanical performance requirements are placed on the panel, maximum strain and minimum strength. Minimum weight designs are presented which document that the choice of mechanical performance requirements cause changes in the optimum design. The effects of lay-up constraints which limit the ply angles to user specified values, such as symmetric or quasi-isotropic laminates, are also investigated.
Link Protein N-terminal Peptide Binds to Bone Morphogenetic Protein (BMP) Type II Receptor and Drives Matrix Protein Expression in Rabbit Intervertebral Disc Cells

Intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration and associated spinal disorders are leading sources of morbidity, and they can be responsible for chronic low back pain. Treatments for degenerative disc diseases continue to be a challenge. Intensive research is now focusing on promoting regeneration of degenerated discs by stimulating production of the disc matrix. Link protein N-terminal peptide (LPP) is a proteolytic fragment of link protein, an important cross-linker and stabilizer of the major structural components of cartilage, aggrecan and hyaluronan. In this study we investigated LPP action in rabbit primary intervertebral disc cells cultured ex vivo in a three-dimensional alginate matrix. Our data reveal that LPP promotes disc matrix production, which was evidenced by increased expression of the chondrocyte-specific transcription factor SOX9 and the extracellular matrix macromolecules aggrecan and collagen II. Using colocalization and pulldown studies we further document a noggin-insensitive direct peptide-protein association between LPP and BMP-RII. This association mediated Smad signaling that converges on BMP genes leading to expression of BMP-4 and BMP-7. Furthermore, through a cell-autonomous loop BMP-4 and BMP-7 intensified Smad1/5 signaling though a feedforward circuit involving BMP-RI, ultimately promoting expression of SOX9 and downstream aggrecan and collagen II genes. Our data define a complex regulatory signaling cascade initiated by LPP and suggest that LPP may be a useful therapeutic substitute for direct BMP administration to treat IVD degeneration and to ameliorate IVD-associated chronic low back pain. Background: LPP induces synthesis of aggrecan and collagen II; however, the mechanism is unknown. Results: LPP up-regulated expression of aggrecan, collagen II, and SOX9 through binding to BMP-RII, initiating a complex Smad/BMP feedforward circuit. Conclusion: LPP could promote disc matrix production directly or boost the activity of exogenous BMPs. Significance: LPP may have value in the treatment of degenerated discs.
Youth, slang, and pragmatic expressions: Examples from Brazilian Portuguese†

This article draws on an ethnographic study of the stigmatized speech style of poor black male youth in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. These youth are said to speak giria (‘slang’), and their speech is often described as incomprehensible to the Brazilian middle class. Speakers and listeners point to a wide range of pragmatic expressions as some of the most salient linguistic features associated with this speech style. This article presents examples from Brazilian Portuguese slang, in which youth draw on sound words, obscenities, address forms, and addressee-oriented tags to create new pragmatic markers and forms of indefinite reference. It is argued that these pragmatic expressions offer multiple opportunities for speakers to convey stance, novelty, and style, social goals long associated with slang. This data suggests that we broaden the purview of slang beyond the lexicon to investigate the ways in which speakers actively innovate within the area of pragmatics.
Significance of Dispersal in Fluctuating Populations of Microtus ochrogaster and M. pennsylvanicus

The impact of dispersal on the population dynamics of Microtus ochrogaster and M. pennsylvanicus was assessed by monitoring the movement of voles through a 1-ha permeable enclosure and employing drift fences to intercept emigrants. Dispersal was not correlated with density nor with rate of increase in either species. Totals of 31 Af. ochrogaster and 10 M. pennsylvanicus dispersers were captured. Losses accounted for by dispersal were estimated at 16.7 and 6.6% for M. ochrogaster and M. pennsylvanicus respectively. Analysis of our data and those of other studies suggests dispersal is an unlikely mechanism of microtine population regulation.
Paleoaltimetry from Stable Isotope Compositions of Fossils

Stable isotope systematics of phosphatic (vertebrate) and carbonate (invertebrate) fossils are reviewed, emphasizing external vs. biological controls on isotope compositions and their variation. External controls include elevation and isotopic lapse rates, temperature, atmospheric circulation patterns, aridity, and changes to precipitation seasonality, e.g., development of monsoons. Biological controls include temperature regulation and temperature-dependent biological activity, water balance, behavior, and rates of hard-part secretion and maturation. Some key factors include what sources of water an animal samples, how those sources respond isotopically to elevation, and the isotopic sensitivity of a biologic tissue to environmental changes. General research design criteria are enumerated, including numbers of fossils and analyses required, as well as uncertainties in the interpretability of isotopic shifts. Isotope zoning from fossil teeth and shells from the Indian foreland demonstrate comparable seasonal monsoon signals at ~11 Ma vs. today, implying a high and broad plateau at that time. Mean isotope compositions of fossil teeth from the lee of the Cascade Range, central Oregon, show a pronounced decrease in δ 18 O initiating ~7 Ma, signaling topographic rise associated with impingement of Basin and Range extension on the arc. Mean compositions and zoning in fossil shells from the northern Rocky Mountains indicate high elevations and topographic relief in the late Cretaceous and early Paleogene. Paleoaltimetry will principally benefit from better estimates of temperature, because temperature lapse rates are less variable than isotopic lapse rates, and because the combination of temperature and isotopic studies may help distinguish between local isotopic changes and distal ones caused by catchment or rain shadow effects.
Cationic cobalt(I) carbonyl compounds containing complexed cyclobutadienes

Abstract The first examples of cationic carbonyl complexes of cobalt-containing substituted cyclobutadiene ligands are reported. The carbon monoxide ligands in these complexes are labile, and can be displaced by benzene.
Fractal templates in the escape dynamics of trapped ultracold atoms

We consider the dynamic escape of a small packet of ultracold atoms launched from within an optical dipole trap. Based on a theoretical analysis of the underlying nonlinear dynamics, we predict that fractal behavior can be seen in experimental escape data. These data can be collected by measuring the time-dependent escape rate for packets launched over a range of angles. This fractal pattern is particularly well resolved below the Bose-Einstein transition temperature\char22{}a direct result of the extreme phase-space localization of the condensate. We predict that several self-similar layers of this novel fractal should be measurable, and we explain how this fractal pattern can be predicted and analyzed with recently developed techniques in symbolic dynamics.
Facile formation of luminescent terbium(III) aryloxide complexes directly from terbium metal including the X-ray crystal structures of Tb(OC6H3Me2-2,6)3(THF)3 and Tb(OC6H3iPr2-2,6)3(THF)2

Abstract Direct reaction of terbium metal in refluxing isopropanol and phenols provides the luminescent terbium aryloxide species Tb(OC6H3Me2-2,6)3(THF)3 (1) and Tb(OC6H3iPr2-2,6)3(THF)2 (2) in good yield. Crystallographic studies showed 1 to be fac-octahedral and 2 to be trigonal bipyramidal with the THF molecules in the axial positions.
Comparison of Hybrid Systems and Fluid Stochastic PetriNets

Hybrid Systems are models of interacting digital and continuous devices with applications in the control of aircraft, computers, or modern cars for instance. Concurrently, Fluid Stochastic Petri Nets (FSPNs) have been introduced as an extension of stochastic Petri nets to model physical systems that contain continuous fluid quantities controlled by discrete logic, as well as a means to deal with the possible state explosion of discrete models. Of course, an FSPN is by definition a hybrid system but in this paper, we compare a general hybrid systems formalism with FSPN formalism. The conclusion of this paper, suplemented by some examples, is that fluid stochastic Petri nets and hybrid system formalism can be converted from one to the other. Although there is a price to pay for such a conversion, the conversion can transfer the solution methods from one to the other and thus help the development of both formalisms.
Mesenchymal ‘stem cell rescue’ for myocardial disease

Summary Myocardial dysfunction resulting from atherosclerosisrelated myocardial infarction (MI), valvular disease, or other insults is a widespread and important cause of morbidity and mortality amongst adults. Clinical manifestations include congestive heart failure, a syndrome of pump dysfunction and a maladaptive neurohumoral response, and lethal ventricular arrhythmias due to scar- and ischemia-related heterogeneity of electrical conduction. The damaged left ventricle undergoes progressive ‘remodeling’ and chamber dilation, with myocyte slippage and fibroblast proliferation. These reflect an apparent lack of effective intrinsic mecha
Preparation and characterization of slurried micronized coals—I. Investigation of coal composition/particle size relations

Abstract Milling characteristics of six bituminous coals having Hardgrove grindabilities ranging from 54 to 112 were examined. The percentages of sample weight, ash, sulfur, and maceral groups for each coal were found to vary depending on the particle size fraction analyzed. Slurries of ultrafine (“micronized”) coal were prepared using two stirred-ball attritor mills. The Hardgrove grindability number was not reliable in predicting the ease of milling in these experiments.
Dilution refrigeration for space applications

Dilution refrigerators are presently used routinely in ground based applications where temperatures below 0.3 K are required. The operation of a conventional dilution refrigerator depends critically on the presence of gravity. To operate a dilution refrigerator in space many technical difficulties must be overcome. Some of the anticipated difficulties are identified in this paper and possible solutions are described. A single cycle refrigerator is described conceptually that uses forces other than gravity to function and the stringent constraints imposed on the design by requiring the refrigerator to function on the earth without using gravity are elaborated upon.
Effects of age and gender on ambulatory blood pressure and heart rate

In a large group of young (n = 194) and elderly (n = 148) healthy subjects, we explored the relationship between ambulatory blood pressure (BP) levels, within-subject BP variability, and age in men and women. The questions asked were: Do elderly subjects display higher BP levels and variability compared to a young group? Are there gender differences in BP level and variability? Are these gender differences similar in the young and the elderly subjects? Do age or gender influence BP in a similar way during waking and during sleep? Subjects wore an ambulatory BP monitor (Accutracker II) for 24 h. Individual levels and variability (standard deviations) were calculated for periods when subjects were awake and during sleep. Systolic BP was higher in the elderly women than in the young group. In comparison to the young subjects, both elderly men and women had higher diastolic BP. BP variability while subjects were awake was higher in the elderly, in women in particular. The higher levels of BP variability found in the elderly women may indicate relatively higher risk for end-organ damage, such as silent cerebrovascular damage.
Collaborative inquiry: a means of creating a learning community

Abstract This article reports on a case study of a collaborative research process undertaken by a principal, kindergarten parents and a college researcher. Facilitated by the school principal and by a college faculty member, parents engaged in a year-long inquiry about their children’s kindergarten experience. They kept journals over the course of the year, chose excerpts to share with other parents during parent meetings, analyzed these excerpts for common themes, and created and performed a readers’ theater script as a way of presenting what they learned to other parents. This project is one example of how a school can invite parents into the school’s learning community. Participating parents reported significant learnings about their child’s development and about school programs. The small number of participants (20% of the kindergarten class each year) suggests that this is just one way to induce parents to participate as learners with schools. Questions related to issues of a school’s leadership and culture, culturally sensitive parent participation processes, and parents’ ability to juggle multiple responsibilities in the ever quickening pace of today’s society need to be further explored.
Two‐dimensional ray‐trace calculations of thermal whole beam self‐focusing

Thermal self‐focusing of laser light may be significant when a plasma is irradiated with short‐wavelength laser light. Self‐focusing magnifies the light intensity which can increase absorption by plasma waves (producing hot electrons which may cause preheat), could increase scattering, and could be a perturbation source for the Rayleigh–Taylor instability. We use two‐dimensional hydrodynamic simulations to characterize thermal self‐focusing for parameters of interest to laser fusion applications, and present a simple model. A diverging beam is shown to reduce the self‐focusing.
Modeling Experiments of Hypervelocity Penetration of Adobe by Spheres and Rods

Abstract The work described in this paper uses the Holmquist-Johnson-Cook equation of state and constitutive model for concrete and appropriate material parameters derived from mechanical test data to perform numerical simulations of penetration and perforation of adobe building material. Experimental results from the literature are modeled, and two-dimensional numerical simulations are carried out using the CTH Eulerian shock physics code. Two groups of simulations were performed in accordance with the experimental results. The first group is tungsten rod penetrators, with impact velocities ranging from 340 to 820 m/s, perforating adobe targets with thicknesses ranging from 71 to 497 mm, and comparison of the residual velocities predicted by the numerical simulations with the available experimental results. The second group is steel spheres, with impact velocities ranging from 500 to 3230 m/s, penetrating into adobe targets of semi-infinite thickness, and comparison of the depths of penetration predicted by the numerical simulations with the available experimental results. The technique described in this paper for modeling and simulation of adobe penetration and perforation is able to adequately predict the residual velocities and depths of penetration for the conditions modeled.
Use of surface analysis techniques to determine the mechanisms of metal corrosion in animal buildings

Abstract Recognizing the severity of metal corrosion problems in animal buildings has prompted an attempt to finally determine the fundamental causes of corrosion. Based on a two-year field test, this paper investigated the corrosion mechanisms of various metal products exposed in three animal buildings by analyzing the composition of corrosion products, using advanced material surface analysis techniques, including energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses. Data from these analyses showed that the corrosion products were mainly iron oxides (Fe2O3, Fe3O4, and FeO) on uncoated 1010 carbon steel and zinc oxides, sulfides, and carbonates on galvanized steel and galvalume (ZnO, ZnS, Zn(CO)3, and Al2O3). Thus, it could be concluded that the fundamental mechanisms of metal corrosion in animal buildings are similar to the classic corrosion mechanisms and the high corrosion rates of metal products in animal buildings are due to the presence of high moisture levels.
Metabolism and age.

Abstract In summary, it may be said that basal oxygen consumption of the total person diminishes gradually with increasing age. This decrement remains even when the determinations are corrected for differences in body size, based on estimates of surface area. In all probability, the basal metabolism per unit of surface area of females remains below that of males even at advanced ages. However, when calculations of basal oxygen consumption are based on the total body water content of the individual, age trends disappear, at least in males. Presumably this means that the reduction in metabolism, with age, is more the result of loss of body tissues and cells having relatively high oxygen consumption rates than it is a reflection of reduced metabolic activity of the cells remaining. Data on resting oxygen uptake of tissue slices offers little evidence for a decrease in oxygen uptake per cell nucleus, with the exception of bovine articular cartilage. Nor is there good evidence of impaired thyroid function in elderly people. Although there may be a slight reduction in the 24-hour uptake of I131 in aged people, the best evidence of reduced thyroid function is based on a small sample which showed a significant reduction in the accumulation gradient of I131 in the thyroid of subjects over 70. Thus, it cannot be assumed that the rate of cellular metabolism necessarily diminishes with increasing age. With the development of new techniques, which may permit identification of active principles from the thyroid in the circulating blood and tissues, it should be possible to resolve some of these important problems.
Low-temperature thermal conductivity of glassy and icosahedral Pd-U-Si alloys

The thermal conductivities of icosahedral and glassy Pd-U-Si have been measured between 0.1 and 3 K. Results for the two phases are similar in temperature dependence, with the icosahedral phase having --30% lower conductivity.
Recurrent symptoms following pyeloplasty with a normal endoscopic evaluation: assessment and outcomes of a challenging patient cohort.

Objective To aid in counseling and managing a challenging patient cohort, we review our experience using a structured endoscopic approach to assess individuals with recurrent symptoms but a normal anatomic evaluation after pyeloplasty. Methods From 2008 to 2012, all patients presenting with recurrent symptoms after pyeloplasty for ureteropelvic junction (UPJ) obstruction were retrospectively evaluated. After baseline renal scanning, all underwent retrograde ureteropyelography, flexible ureteroscopy, UPJ balloon calibration, and provocative ureteral stenting. Patients without clear anatomic obstruction were assessed 2 weeks postoperatively at the time of stent removal and reassessed serially as outpatients before considering further operative management. Results Nineteen patients had undergone an average of 1.4 UPJ procedures: pyeloplasty in all 19, retrograde endopyelotomy in 6, and balloon dilation in 1. Mean age was 35.2 years, time from original management to symptom recurrence was 80 months, Lasix T 1/2 was 16.6 min, and differential renal function of the affected kidney was 43%. Mean follow-up after endoscopic assessment was 16.2 months. Thirteen patients (68%) achieved long-term pain-free status after endoscopic evaluation alone, and 2 (11%) were rendered symptom free after repeat robotic pyeloplasty. Of the 4 remaining patients (21%) with persistent pain after a negative endoscopic assessment, all were referred to a pain specialist. Two patients (11%) ultimately required laparoscopic nephrectomy for definitive symptom control. Conclusion Our findings support evaluation with retrograde pyelography, ureteroscopy, and balloon calibration for patients with recurrent symptoms before embarking on revision pyeloplasty. Surprisingly, two-thirds of our patients achieved pain-free status with an endoscopic approach alone.
Judgment of minimal aversion thresholds and tolerance levels in two modalities

Eight males and four fetnales judged a minimal aversion threshold (MAT) and a tolerance level for white-noise and electric-shock stimuli. Cross-modal rank correlations of both judgments were found to be significant. Significant sex and practice differences were found for electric-shock judgments but not for white-noise judgments.
Application of the cylindrically guided wave technique for bolt and pump shaft inspections

Abstract Elastic wave propagation in a bounded medium significantly differs from that in an unbounded medium. The bounded medium in the form of a cylinder acts like a solid waveguide directing the wave with its geometry. A continuous or a pulsed wave interacts with cylindrical boundaries producing mode-converted signals in addition to the backwall echo. The signals are received at constant time intervals directly proportional to the diameter of a solid cylindrical object such as a bolt or an anchor stud. The Cylindrically Guided Wave Technique (CGWT) makes intelligent use of the mode-converted signals, or trailing pulses, to detect corrosion wastages and cracks in cylindrical objects.
DefendingIn Defence of PoliticsToday

What are the threats to politics fifty years after the publication of Bernard Crick's classic In Defence of Politics? The chief danger lies in the forces of globalisation and the eclipse of the national state as the locus of political life. It is the hope of many in both Europe and the US that we might replace the basic structure of the sovereign state with a variety of postnational forms of organisation such as the UN or the EU. What are the forces behind these developments? Are we entering a world beyond politics increasingly administered by international law courts and tribunals no longer responsible to their national electorates? The possibility cannot be ruled out, but such a world, I suggest, would no longer be a political world.
The effect of meralluride blocking on localization of radiochlormerodrin in a mouse brain tumor (Sarcoma).

Abstract As meralluride blocking is commonly used in brain tumor scanning with radiomercury chlormerodrin, and as the effect of this pretreatment on the localization of radiochlormerodrin in brain tumors is not known, we have studied the pharmacodynamics of radiochlormerodrin in a mouse brain tumor with and without priot administration of meralluride. Tumor-bearing mice were injected with a constant dose of radioactive chlormerodrin and were pretreated with two dose levels (0·557 μg/g and 5·011 μg/g) of stable meralluride. At varying time intervals after injection of radioactivity, tissue samples were counted, and the degree of localization evaluated. The results reveal differences in mice receiving blocking doses of meralluride where a lesser tissue concentration of radiomercury was found than in mice not receiving blocking doses of meralluride. In addition, different intervals of maximum tumor to brain ratios were observed. Mice receiving blocking meralluride had maximum tumor to brain ratio 1–2 hr after injection, while mice not given stable mercury reached maximum tumor to brain ratios 3–5 hr after injection. The data are thought to have some bearing on selection of optimum scanning time in the clinical brain scanning situation.
Retrovirally mediated RNA interference targeting the M2 subunit of ribonucleotide reductase: A novel therapeutic strategy in pancreatic cancer.

Abstract Background Ribonucleotide reductase M2 subunit (RRM2) overexpression enhances tumor chemoresistance and cellular invasiveness. We hypothesized that the RNA interference (RNAi) induced by retrovirally delivered small interfering RNA (siRNA) would sensitize pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells to gemcitabine and attenuate their invasive potential. Methods Stable suppression of RRM2 expression in PANC1, MIAPaCa2, BxPC3, and Capan2 cells was induced by exposure to a novel replication-deficient retrovirus, engineered to express RRM2-specific siRNA (psiRRM2), and confirmed by Western blot analysis. Single-base mismatch vector (psiControl) served as control. Ribonucleotide reductase activity was quantified, and gemcitabine 50% inhibitory concentrations were calculated. TUNEL staining and caspase profiling were performed after gemcitabine exposure. Cellular invasiveness was quantified in a Matrigel Boyden chamber. NF-κB activity and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) expression and activity were measured. Results RRM2 expression was stably and specifically suppressed in psiRRM2, but not psiControl transfectants. psiRRM2 transfectants exhibited lower 50% inhibitory concentrations, increased gemcitabine-induced apoptosis, and greater caspase-3 activation, relative to psiControl transfectants. Invasiveness was attenuated in psiRRM2 transfectants, as was NF-κB activity, MMP-9 expression, and MMP-9 activity, relative to psiControl transfectants. Conclusions RRM2 gene silencing attenuates pancreatic adenocarcinoma cellular invasiveness and gemcitabine chemoresistance. Retroviral siRNA delivery can efficiently induce stable RNAi, allowing dissection of gene function and potentially representing a new therapeutic modality.
Catalytic and electrochemical oxidation of methane on platinum

The partial oxidation of methane to ethane and ethylene is of considerable interest and has been recently reviewed. It is widely accepted that over selective catalysts, including Li/MgO, Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3}, and Sm{sub 2}O{sub 3}, methane initially reacts on active sites to form CH{sub 3}{center dot}radicals which combine in the gas phase to form C{sub 2}H{sub 6}. Several investigators have recently used solid electrolyte reactor cells to influence the intrinsic catalytic activity or product selectivity. In this work, the catalytic and electrocatalytic oxidation of methane over Pt is investigated in a solid electrolyte cell to find if C{sub 2} formation can be electrocatalytically enhanced. To aid kinetic understanding, solid electrolyte potentiometry (SEP) is used to measure the thermodynamic activity of adsorbed oxygen.
Adjuvant therapy of colon cancer: a review.

Abstract Colon cancer is a common cause of cancer-related mortality. Complete surgical resection of the primary tumor and/or select metastatic lesions can be curative in many patients. The risk of recurrence after resection can be predicted by pathologic staging. Large prospective randomized trials over the past 2 decades have clearly shown an increased overall survival for patients with resected stage III colon cancer who are treated with adjuvant 5-fluorouracil—based chemotherapy. The benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with stage II disease remains controversial. There is indirect evidence to support adjuvant chemotherapy after resection of metastatic disease. Locoregional approaches such as radiation, hepatic arterial infusion, or portal vein chemotherapy remain investigational. Adjuvant immunotherapy with monoclonal antibodies is emerging as a therapeutic option that might complement chemotherapy. Future challenges include improving adjuvant chemotherapy with the addition and/or substitution of new agents, resolving which subset of patients with stage II and resected stage IV colon cancer might benefit from therapy, validating the benefit of immunotherapy, and investigating locoregional therapies compared with systemic therapy.
Characterization of Arachidate Langmuir−Blodgett Films by Variable Energy Positron Beams

Arachidate Langmuir−Blodgett (LB) films of different chemical composition and number of monomolecular layers deposited on silylated silica glass substrates were studied by means of positron annihilation spectroscopy. The applied methods included the measurement of the Doppler broadening of the annihilation photopeak with variable energy positron beams and bulk positron lifetime measurements. The studied samples were 58 monomolecular layers (MML) thick Mg- and Cd-arachidate, arachidic acid (50 MML) and a series of Pb-arachidate samples with 4, 10, 20, 40, and 58 MML. The investigation showed that the variable energy positron beam technique is capable of measuring the thickness of the deposited LB films. The measured positron annihilation parameters are sensitive to the chemical composition of the films and the behavior of the films in a vacuum. The results confirmed the stability of salt base LB films in high vacuum conditions and showed the desorption of pure acid films. These investigations have also sho...
The substitution reactions of a water soluble cobalt(III) porphyrin with thiocyanate as a function of pH

Abstract Stability and rate constants as well as activation parameters have been determined for the reactions of cobalt(III)tetra(N-methylpyridyl)porphine with thiocyanate ion as a function of pH. The porphyrin ligand increases the substitution rates at the metal center by several orders of magnitude relative to most other cobalt(III) complexes. The rates of formation and dissociation of the thiocyanate complexes are also dependent on the nature of the axial ligand (water, hydroxide or thiocyanate) trans to the leaving group. A bound thiocyanate ion labilizes the remaining water molecule by a factor greater than 10 4 and also changes the p K a of this group by at least three log units.
Anatomical and physiological correlates of visual computation from striate to infero-temporal cortex

The calculus of two-dimensional mappings is reviewed. Currently available data suggests that a conformal (isotropic) mapping is sufficient to model the global topography of primate striate cortex. The addition of a shear component to this mapping is outlined. A similar analysis is applied to the local map structure of striate cortex. Models based on a local reiteration of the complex logarithm and on Radon (and backprojection) mappings are presented. A variety of computational functions associated with the novel architectures for image processing suggested by striate cortex neuroanatomy are discussed. Applications to segmentation, perceptual invariances, shape analysis, and visual data compression are included. Finally, recent experimental results on shape analysis by neurons of infero-temporal cortex are presented.
On the complexity of medical devices and systems

How does one design something that is complex? Or something that is simple? Why should one try to reduce or increase complexity? What is complexity? There are a large number of different uses of the word, including many in mathematics and physics. Most of these are not useful in attempting to fit the word to the problems of the design of systems and devices for medicine. In this paper the concept has been defined to apply to health care, which has led to some conclusions about the future development of medical systems and devices.
The Spaces and Times of Globalization: Place, Scale, Networks, and Positionality*

AbstractDiscussions of the spatiality of globalization have largely focused on place-based attributes that fix globalization locally, on globalization as the construction of scale, and on networks as a distinctive feature of contemporary globalization. By contrast, position within the global economy is frequently regarded as anachronistic in a shrinking, networked world. A critical review of how place, scale, and networks are used as metaphors for the spatiality of globalization suggests that space/time still matters. Positionality (position in relational space/time within the global economy) is conceptualized as both shaping and shaped by the trajectories of globalization and as influencing the conditions of possibility of places in a globalizing world. The wormhole is invoked as a way of describing the concrete geographies of positionality and their non-Euclidean relationship to the Earth’s surface. The inclusion of positionality challenges the simplicity of pro- and antiglobalization narratives and can...
A Prospective, Randomized Comparison of Thermal Cautery and Argon Laser for Permanent Punctal Occlusion

Permanent punctal occlusion was performed by two techniques on 27 patients (73 puncta). Patients were randomly assigned to be treated with either thermal cautery or argon laser for keratitis sicca. Follow-up assessment disclosed that the puncta to which thermal cautery was applied remained closed significantly longer than those to which laser treatment was applied (P