cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A Test and Demonstration Unit for Concentrating Sulfur Dioxide from Flue Gas

A bench-scale system to continuously separate and concentrate SO{sub 2} from flue gas has been developed and tested. The separation is accomplished due to the relative adsorption strengths of SO{sub 2} and water on a synthetic mordenite, a phenomenon known as rollup. The continuous concentration system (CCS) is comprised of two pairs of packed beds that cycle between cleaning, roll-up, and regeneration modes. The bed pairs behave identically, with cycles staggered by half of one adsorption-desorption-regeneration period. The cycle for each pair involves regeneration of one bed with dry air, while the other is cleaning the flue gas and subsequently rolling up the SO{sub 2}. This bench-scale CCS is able to split a 6 standard liters per minute (SLPM) gas stream containing 2,000 ppm SO{sub 2} into two streams of equal flowrate, one containing 3,400 ppm SO{sub 2} and the other 70 ppm SO{sub 2}. The influence of water is strong, with the rollup being optimal at 13% moisture in the flue gas. Adsorption starting with the bed at 75 C is optimal, and air regeneration at 200 C and 8 SLPM for 76 min is adequate. An economic analysis of an industrial-scaled CCS capable of treating a 1,000,000 scfmmore » flue gas stream containing 2,000 ppm SO{sub 2} (typical of a 400-MW coal-fired power plant) was conducted. The CCS installation permits smaller flue gas scrubbers to be installed and can potentially save a 400-MW power plant $2.6 million in annual operating costs.« less
Averaged multiple unit activity as an estimate of phasic changes in local neuronal activity: effects of volume-conducted potentials

A technique for the derivation of digitally-averaged multiple unit activity (MUA) is described. The use of signal averaging instead of analog integration improves the temporal resolution and thus provides a clearer picture of the instantaneous MUA level. MUA recordings have been used in the identification of regions active in the generation of event-related potentials, based in part on the limited volume within which a semi-microelectrode 'sees' action potentials. However, averaged MUA waveforms may be affected by time-locked activity volume-conducted to the electrode site. A theoretical analysis of the magnitude of this effect is presented, along with experimental data in support of its assumptions and predictions. The most important factor is not the absolute size of the volume-conducted potentials, but their magnitude relative to that of the locally-generated MUA. When full-wave rectification is used, volume-conducted activity which is a considerable fraction of the MUA level will not significantly affect the averaged MUA waveform. Half-wave rectification should not be used, as it leads to a much larger effect from small far-field potentials.
Predictive HVAC control using a Markov occupancy model

This paper presents a model predictive control (MPC) technique for building heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. It incorporates the building's thermal dynamics, local weather predictions, and a stochastic occupancy model to reduce energy consumption while maintaining occupant comfort. Using approximate dynamic programming and a cost function weighted by expected occupancy, the scheme extends the capability of conventional model predictive control by pre-conditioning thermal zones before occupancy begins and reducing conditioning before occupancy ends. The resulting control law may be synthesized step-wise using an on-line optimization or may be periodically synthesized off-line and downloaded into an embedded controller. Simulation results demonstrate the efficacy of both approaches.
Familial protein-losing enteropathy and protein-losing nephropathy in Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers: 222 cases (1983-1997).

Records and pedigrees of Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers (SCWT) with protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) or protein-losing nephropathy (PLN) were studied retrospectively. Criteria for inclusion were defined based on analysis of blood (panhypoproteinemia for PLE, hypoalbuminemia for PLN) and urine (proteinuria for PLN) and histopathologic examination of tissue. Two hundred twenty-two affected dogs (female:male ratio = 1.6, P < .001) were clinically identified. Dogs were diagnosed with PLE earlier (P < .005; mean +/- SD age: 4.7+/-2.6 years, n = 76) than with PLN (6.3+/-2.0 years, n = 84) or with both diseases (5.9+/-2.2 years, n = 62). Clinical signs included vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, pleural and peritoneal effusions, and less commonly thromboembolic disease. Dogs with PLE generally had panhypoproteinemia and hypocholesterolemia; intestinal lesions included inflammatory bowel disease, dilated lymphatics, and lipogranulomatous lymphangitis. Dogs with PLN generally had hypoalbuminemia, proteinuria, hypercholesterolemia, and azotemia; renal lesions typically showed chronic glomerulonephritis/glomerulosclerosis, and less commonly endstage renal disease. Dogs with combined PLE/PLN had intermediate mean values (P < .001) for serum total protein, albumin, globulin, and cholesterol but had a higher mean urine protein:creatinine ratio than did PLN dogs (P < .05); intestinal and renal lesions in these dogs were similar to those in the other groups. Two dogs had incidental mild renal dysplasia. Pedigree analysis from 188 dogs demonstrated a common male ancestor, although the mode of inheritance is unknown. Both PLE and PLN are common diseases in this small breed population. The prognosis is poor. Compared with previously reported intestinal and renal diseases in dogs, a new, distinctive familial predisposition for both PLE and PLN has been recognized in the SCWT breed.
Ovarian tumors in infants and children.

Summary The clinical manifestations of ovarian tumors in 25 patients treated during the past 15 years are reviewed. The necessity of early diagnosis is stressed, especially in torsion of an ovarian tumor on its pedicle where early surgical intervention could preserve ovarian tissue and the attached Fallopian tube.
Cardiac relocation and chest wall reconstruction after separation of thoracopagus conjoined twins with a single heart.

Separation of thoracopagus conjoined twins with a single heart and the twin reversed arterial perfusion sequence yielded a single surviving infant with a protuberant heart covered by ribs and soft tissue from the nonsurviving twin. At 13 months of age, the heart was relocated in the chest after caudal mobilization of the diaphragms. The protective tissue cage was removed and a normal chest contour established. This technique also may be useful in the treatment of thoracic ectopia cordis.
Practical suggestions for better crystal structures

X-ray crystallography is one of the most popular analytical methods, and with the advent of area detectors in the 1990s single crystal X-ray structure determination has become commonplace. Initially, the method was reserved for the expert, but hard- and software improvements of the last couple of decades have enabled scientists who are not formally trained in crystallography to determine crystal structures as well. This has led to an explosion of the number of crystal structures and, unfortunately, also of the number of incorrect structures submitted to scientific journals. It is evident that (semi)automated structure determination works only for routine structures. In more complex cases, such as structures with disorders, pseudo-symmetry or twinning, crystallographic knowledge, refinement skills and experience are still vital for obtaining high-quality, publication-grade crystal structures. This article is meant to offer a few suggestions to scientists who are using crystallography as part of their resea...
Susceptibility of skeletal muscle to coxsackie A2 virus infection: effects of botulinum toxin and denervation

Coxsackie A viruses can infect denervated but not innervated mature skeletal muscles. The role of synaptic transmission in preventing susceptibility to Coxsackievirus infection was studied by surgically denervating leg muscles of mice or injecting the muscles with botulinum toxin to block quantal release of acetylcholine. Control muscles were injected with heat-inactivated toxin. Subsequent injection of Coxsackie A2 virus resulted in extensive virus replication and tissue destruction in the denervated and botulinum toxin-treated muscles, while the control muscles showed only minimal changes. This suggests that the susceptibility of skeletal muscle to Coxsackievirus infection is regulated by synaptic transmission.
Desflurane for outpatient general anesthesia in third molar extraction cases

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of desflurane, a new volatile anesthetic agent, in a standardized endotracheal anesthetic technique for the removal of third molars in ambulatory patients. Patients and Methods: Data were kept on 50 American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) Class I and II patients undergoing oral endotracheal general anesthesia for removal of third molars. A standardized anesthetic technique was used on all patients. Induction was achieved with a bolus of propofol followed by neuromuscular paralysis with succinylcholine and then intubation. A 70% nitrous oxide, 30% oxygen, and desflurane mixture was titrated until there was no movement, and a local anesthetic was administered. The procedure was then completed in a standard fashion. The parameters measured included the length of surgery, the time from gas shutoff to extubation, the time from arrival in the postanesthesia care unit to achieving an Aldrete system score for discharge with an escort, the incidence of nausea and vomiting, and amnesia of the procedure. Results: This study showed that the use of desflurane as the primary anesthetic agent for procedures of less than 1 hour is a useful technique. The agent is expensive, but the decreased recovery time and minimal side effects may offset this expense. Conclusion: The desflurane anesthetic technique provides a satisfactory surgical environment in selected patients. It results in rapid postanesthesia recovery and discharge times, thus reducing costs.
Stimulation of experimental endochondral ossification by low‐energy pulsing electromagnetic fields

Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) of certain configuration have been shown to be effective clinically in promoting the healing of fracture nonunions and are believed to enhance calcification of extracellular matrix. In vitro studies have suggested that PEMFs may also have the effect of modifying the extracellular matrix by promoting the synthesis of matrix molecules. This study examines the effect of one PEMF upon the extracellular matrix and calcification of endochondral ossification in vivo. The synthesis of cartilage molecules is enhanced by PEMF, and subsequent endochondral calcification is stimulated. Histomorphometric studies indicate that the maturation of bone trabeculae is also promoted by PEMF stimulation. These results indicate that a specific PEMF can change the composition of cartilage extracellular matrix in vivo and raises the possibility that the effects on other processes of endochondral ossification (e.g., fracture healing and growth plates) may occur through a similar mechanism.
Extension of dc transient techniques to reactions with a potential dependent charge transfer coefficient

Abstract The evaluation of data from dc transient measurements invariably involves comparison of the experimental results with the predictions of a theoretical model. In the past, these models were usually based on the Butler—Volmer equation, with the assumption that the charge transfer coefficient (α) is constant. The Marcus theory of charge transfer predicts a linear variation of α with electrode potential; therefore, it is important to examine the problems in the use of the dc relaxation techniques caused by a potential dependent α, and to examine possible ways to detect and to overcome these problems. An error analysis was carried out, and it was concluded that the dc transient techniques cannot be used for the measurement of kinetics of electrode reactions if the charge transfer coefficient of the reaction is potential dependent and the potential excursion during the transient is large enough to cause an appreciable variation of α, unless the potential dependence of α is explicitly included in the data evaluation model. While this effect is self explanatory for those transient techniques where the potential is not the controlled variable (eg, galvanostatic and coulostatic techniques), large errors can also occur for the potentiostatic techniques (where the potential is the controlled variable) if the reaction is fast and the uncompensated solution resistance is large. It was also shown that an all numerical data evaluation method based on multidimensional, non-linear, least squares curve fitting calculations coupled with a numerical differential equation solver routine can extend the usefulness of the dc relaxation techniques to reactions having a potential dependent charge transfer coefficient provided a functional dependence of α on the potential can be included in the data evaluation model.
Inflight validation of the calibration of the Airborne Visible/Infrared Imaging Spectrometer in 1993

To achieve the research objectives of the Airborne Visible/IR Imaging Spectrometer (AVIRIS), the sensor calibration must be valid while AVIRIS is acquiring data from the airborne platform. The operational environment inside the aircraft differs significantly from that in the AVIRIS laboratory environment where the sensor is calibrated prior to and following each flight season. To independently validate the calibration of AVIRIS in the flight environment an inflight calibration experiment is conducted at least twice each flight season. Results for a calibration experiment held on the 26th of September 1993 are presented.© (1994) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
The use of rats as discriminative stimuli.

A free operant procedure was used to determine whether or not one rat could discriminate: (1) between the presence and absence of a second rat, and (2) between two other rats of the same species and sex. The subjects were four male Wistar rats. The discriminatory response was a bar press and food was used as reinforcement during training. Although there were wide individual differences in rate of learning, all subjects learned to make both discriminations.
An integral for FHNC calculations

In considering a modified approximation scheme for Fermi hypernetted chain (FHNC) theory, an integral arose that needed to be evaluated on a routine basis. By evaluating a portion of the integral in closed form, the time required for computation of the complete integral was considerably reduced. This paper presents the closed form evaluation along with some calculations using the result on the electron gas.
Floating meadow epiphyton: biological and chemical features of epiphytic material in an Amazon floodplain lake

SUMMARY. 1. Quantities and the chemical composition of epiphyton on the roots of floating aquatic macrophytes were measured in Lake Calado, an Amazon floodplain lake. Growth of epiphytic algae following physical disturbance and losses of epiphyton due to grazing and storms were investigated. 2. Deposition of silt from invading river water decreased chlorophyll and nutrient content (%C, %N, %P) of epiphyton during rising water. N:P ratios of epiphyton indicated that proximity to the river increased supplies of phosphorus. Attached algal biomass per unit root tissue was higher overall during the falling water period, when light was greater, storms less frequent, and new host plant tissue produced more slowly. 3. Epiphytic algal biomass at the margins of floating meadows exceeded that of the phytoplankton in the open water on a per unit area basis. Increases in attached algal chlorophyll ranged from two- to ten-fold over 1 week. Artificial denudation of roots was followed by rapid regrowth of attached algae, leading, after I week, to four-fold increases in chlorophyll over the pre-denuded state. 4. Wind-blown macrophytes experienced an episodic loss of 70% of epiphytic material in less than 1 h. Particulate material lost from roots grazed by snails included root tissue and contained significantly more carbon than material lost from ungrazed roots.
Application of a rigid—plastic finite-element method to some metalforming operations☆

Abstract In massive metalforming processes, a billet of a simple cross-sectional geometry—such as round or round-cornered square—is formed usually in several operations to produce a part with more complex geometry than that of the initial billet. In today's practice, the design and optimization of each forming operation is accomplished using empirical knowledge and extensive experience. Thus, considerable amounts of trial and error are necessary to set up a reliable and reproducible forming process. It is therefore one of the major goals of metalforming research and development to reduce this necessary trial and error procedure by mathematical analysis and simulating of metalforming operations. Among various methods available for analyzing practical plastic flow problems, the rigid—plastic finite-element method appears to be the most promising technique. Recently, a user-oriented computer program called ALPID (Analysis of Large Plastic Incremental Deformation) has been developed for analyzing and simulating axisymmetric metalforming operations. ALPID is based on a general method of analysis which uses high-order elements and combines the features of the upper-bound and the conventional finite-element methods. This analysis is valid for both rigid—plastic and rigid—viscoplastic materials and can handle both constant-friction shear stress or Coulomb-type friction at the tool—material interface. At this time, ALPID is being further developed for application to forming operations with complex die shapes and metal flow conditions. The present capabilities of ALPID have been evaluated by predicting metal flow, stresses and forming load in three basic deformation processes: cylinder upsetting, ring compression and spike forging. In cylinder upsetting, the present method with one quadratic element predicted the metal flow as well as it could be predicted with the conventional FEM using 88 linear elements. Metal flow predictions in ring compression and spike forging also showed good agreements with preliminary experimental results.
Antibiotics: unapproved uses or indications

A ntimicrobial agents are important in the practice of dermatology; however, in addition to their role in the treatment of infectious cutaneous problems, their usage has been expanded in treating noninfectious diseases, mainly of the inflammatory and autoimmune nature. In this setting, antibiotics are used as adjuvant treatment in combination as well as monotherapy. Some of the noninfectious diseases are uncommon chronic conditions without known effective curative modalities, and the clinical data about the effectiveness are based solely on case reports in the literature.1 The use of antibiotics in such selected settings, however, has been successful in a number of practitioner’s hands; thus, the evolution and final word underlying the efficacy of such therapeutic interventions remains to be answered through future double-blinded clinical trials. This report expounds on a number of such experiences reported in the literature concerning unapproved uses or indications of antimicrobial antibiotics in the treatment of cutaneous diseases.
Consequences of the shifts in U.S. Research and Development policy

This paper is an edited version of a talk given in Copenhagen, Denmark on June 19, 1984 on a panel on public policy at the 26th international meeting of The Institute of Management Sciences (TIMS). The talk deals with the consequences of the recent marked shifts in the research and development policy of the U.S. government, as seen by the top federal science and technology administrator in three major areas: defence, aeronautics and space, and energy. Collectively they put the shifts into good perspective, see them in the main as being beneficial, and describe certain needed modifications to what in some respects have been evolving policies.
External beam radiation therapy for choroidal neovascularization

Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of external beam radiation therapy on choroidal neovascularization (CNV) secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Design: The study design was a nonrandomized clinical trial with an historic control group. Participants: A total of 91 patients were treated with external beam radiation. These patients were compared retrospectively to the 119 patients in a control group. Intervention: Patients with subfoveal CNV who did not meet the criteria for laser treatment defined by published reports from the Macular Photocoagulation Study Group or who did not want laser treatment were considered for radiation therapy in a nonrandomized, prospective clinical trial. Additional entry criteria for this prospective study included visual acuity better than or equal to 20/320 on the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study chart and a lesion size less than 12 disc areas. The patients were treated with 5 fractions of 200 cGy 6 MV external beam photons. Main Outcome Measures: The visual acuity measured at baseline was compared to the visual acuity after 1 year of follow-up. Results: The mean baseline visual acuity of the 91 patients entered into the Radiation Study was 20/80. After 1 year, 83 patients (91.2%) completed follow-up, and their mean visual acuity dropped to 20/200. By comparison, the mean baseline visual acuity of the control patients also was 20/80, and after 1 year, the control subjects had a mean visual acuity of 20/125. At 1 year of follow-up, 49.4% of patients treated with radiation and 38.1% of the control subjects lost 3 or more lines of visual acuity ( P = 0.16). Conclusions: This study found that external beam radiation using 1000 cGy in 5 fractions, a dose similar to that used in previous studies, was not effective in the treatment of CNV secondary to AMD. These results suggest that patients should not be treated with this dose of external beam radiation for CNV secondary to AMD.
Burnout among Entering MSW Students: Exploring the Role of Personal Attributes

Although individual susceptibility to burnout within a similar structural context is well-documented in other helping professions, little is known about the relationship between personal attributes and burnout in social work. Furthermore, despite a large number of entering MSW students with prior work experience, there is a paucity of research documenting the burnout phenomenon among them. By using a sample of MSW students with prior work experience (N=60), the current study examined the effect of personal attributes on burnout (i.e., overidentification tendency, trait anxiety, and emotional contagion). Findings imply that burnout depends on personal attributes, rooted in cognitive role-taking levels, and that emotional contagion has a significant role in burnout. Implications for social work education and practice are discussed.
CXCL12 Activates a Robust Transcriptional Response in Human Prostate Epithelial Cells

CXCL12 is a CXC-type chemokine that plays important roles in hematopoiesis, development, and organization of the immune system and supports the survival or growth of a variety of normal or malignant cell types. Our laboratory recently showed that CXCL12 is secreted by aging stromal fibroblast cells and is a major paracrine factor that specifically stimulates the proliferation of prostate epithelial cells. The current study shows that this CXCL12-mediated proliferative response may be either ERK-dependent or ERK-independent. Moreover, CXCL12 initiates a previously undefined and complex global transcriptional response in prostate epithelial cells. This CXCL12-mediated transcriptional response directly stimulates the expression of genes encoding proteins that are involved in the promotion of cellular proliferation and progression through the cell cycle, tumor metastasis, and cellular motility, and directly represses the transcription of genes encoding proteins involved in cell-cell adhesion and resistance to apoptosis. Thus, CXCL12 may play a major role in the etiology of benign proliferative disease in the context of an aging tissue microenvironment.
An open letter to Uncle Sam: America, pray leave Somalia to its own devices

Abstract The al-Qaeda-linked Somali insurgent group al-Shabaab has raised alarm in the United States. The proliferation of Somali piracy, too, has US foreign policymakers concerned. This open letter to ‘Uncle Sam’ makes a straightforward case: with the pirates, America should mete out collective punishment; with the terrorists, it should do nothing.
Airborne concentrations of toxic metals resulting from the use of low melting point lead alloys to construct radiotherapy shielding

Determinations of airborne concentrations of lead, cadmium, bismuth, and tin were made above vessels containing a "fusible" lead alloy (158 degrees F melting point) commonly used for construction of radiotherapy blocks. Fume concentrations were determined by collection on a membrane filter and analysis by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Samples were obtained for alloy temperatures of 200 degrees, 400 degrees, and 600 degrees F. In all instances, concentrations were much lower than the applicable occupational limits for continuous exposure. The results of this study indicate that the use of a vented hood as a means of reducing air concentrations of toxic metals above and near vessels containing low temperature melting point lead allows commonly used in construction of radiotherapy shields appears unjustifiable. However, proper handling procedures should be observed to avoid entry into the body via alternate pathways (e.g., ingestion or skin absorption). Transmission data of a non-cadmium containing lead alloy with a melting point of 203 degrees F was ascertained and is reported on.
Reconstruction of radial fission product distributions in reactor fuels from a small number of projections

Abstract Four mathematical techniques for reconstruction of the radial two-dimensional distribution of fission products using projections obtained by nondestructive gamma scanning were evaluated. Reconstruction of a picture from a finite set of projections is mathematically indeterminate; therefore, reconstruction techniques are heuristic, particularly when only a small number of projections are available. Of the techniques evaluated, the filtered backprojection algorithm provided the best reconstruction for simulated gamma-ray sources, as well as for actual irradiated fuel material.
REAFFIRMING THE IMPORTANCE OF ANALYSIS IN APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS: A REVIEW OF FUNCTIONAL ANALYSIS OF PROBLEM BEHAVIOR: FROM EFFECTIVE ASSESSMENT TO EFFECTIVE SUPPORT, EDITED BY A. C. REPP AND R. H. HORNER

In recent years, much has been written about the topics of functional assessment and functional analysis in applied settings. In their book, Functional Analysis of Problem Behavior: From Effective Assessment to Effective Support, Repp and Horner (1999) have compiled a series of essays from experts on the topic. In this article, we review their work and comment on each chapter’s contribution to the relevant literature. We conclude that the book meets its primary goals of expanding our view of functional analysis as well as providing those new to the field with a stronger understanding of the topic. We do, however, note some concerns with inconsistent use of functional analysis terminology and a lack of practical guidance regarding its implementation in applied settings, but we believe these limitations are inherent in the empirical literature and are not unique to this book. Thus, we strongly endorse this book as ‘‘must reading’’ for behaviorally oriented researchers, students, and practitioners. DESCRIPTORS: functional analysis, behavior analysis, assessment
Leveraging Partnerships to Develop a Strong and Diverse Workforce

ABSTRACT With new challenges facing academic health sciences libraries in the 21st century, the profession needs to develop a workforce capable of integrating more directly into the campus organization, the research enterprise, and the clinical setting. To ensure that the profession has an expanding pool of talent with leadership capacity, the National Library of Medicine (NLM) and its outreach partners focus attention on promoting careers in health sciences librarianship and informatics among college and postmaster's students. This article addresses how NLM joins forces with organizations and partners such as the Medical Library Association, the American Library Association, the Association of Academic Health Sciences Libraries, and the Association of Research Libraries to sponsor recruitment programs, midcareer leadership training, and scholarships for library school students to achieve a diverse workforce.
EDITORIAL: BEYOND PROSTATE SPECIFIC ANTIGEN—MARKERS FOR PROSTATE CANCER FOR THE 21ST CENTURY

There is no question that serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a powerful tool for early detection of prostate cancer. Widespread use of PSA screening of asymptomatic men has resulted in a dramatic increase in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer.1 There can also be no question that serum PSA is useful for monitoring clinical recurrence following treatment with curative intent (that is radical prostatectomy and/or radiation therapy) or detecting disease progression after hormonal manipulation.2 On the other hand, PSA falls short in staging newly diagnosed prostate cancer and prognosticating the course of the disease in individual patients. This shortcoming is hardly a surprise, given the heterogeneity of clinical prostate cancer and the fact that the link between PSA and prostate cancer is phenomenological rather than pathogenetic. To their credit clinical investigators and basic researchers never cease the search for better markers for prostate cancer despite the popularity of PSA, which now has been in widespread clinical use for more than a decade. In this issue of the Journal Hoffman et al (824) report that a low level of free serum testosterone may be a marker for aggressive prostate cancer. The authors reviewed retrospectively 117 men with a diagnosis of prostate cancer, including 57 who had undergone radical prostatectomy, and found that cancers were larger in the presence of low free serum testosterone. Furthermore, all of the high grade tumors (Gleason 8 or greater) were noted in patients with low free serum testosterone. Interestingly, the authors speculate that high grade prostate cancer may inhibit this testosterone production. Conversely, in my opinion one could speculate that a low serum testosterone environment is conducive to the development of poorly differentiated disease. Other potential markers have been evaluated. At detection less than 1% of prostate cancers display a predominant neuroendocrine component. As disease progresses and particularly in the case of hormone refractory disease 10% to 20% of cancers display neuroendocrine histological features. Serum chromogranin-A may help monitor the clinical course in these patients, many of whom have low and stable serum PSA.3
Time reproductions by H.M.

Abstract Time reproductions by a subject with a severe memory loss were normal only for intervals less than 20 sec. For longer intervals, the reproduced intervals were roughly proportional to the square root of the standard intervals, plus 20 sec.
AlN bulk crystals grown on SiC seeds

AlN layers with thickness between 0.1 and 3 mm were grown on on-axis and off-axis (0 0 0 1), Si-face SiC seeds by physical vapor transport (PVT) from an AlN powder source. A two-step deposition process was developed for the growth of thick layers. Cracks formed in the AlN layers due to the thermal expansion mismatch between AlN and SiC were observed to decrease with increase in AlN thickness. AlN grown on on-axis SiC was primarily Al-polar, but contained N-polar inversion domains (IDs) revealed by wet etchingin hot, aqueous phosphoric acid or potassium hydroxide solutions. Regions of opposite polarity on basal plane surfaces were imaged by piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM). IDs were not observed in crystals grown on off-axis seeds. The influence of SiC seed orientation and stability on the polarity of the AlN layers is discussed. r 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
The fast decoding of Reed-Solomon codes using Fermat theoretic transforms and continued fractions

It is shown that Reed-Solomon (RS) codes can be decoded by using a fast Fourier transform (FFT) algorithm over finite fields GF(F_{n}) , where F_{n} is a Fermat prime, and continued fractions. This new transform decoding method is simpler than the standard method for RS codes. The computing time of this new decoding algorithm in software can be faster than the standard decoding method for RS codes.
Thoreau's Unreal Estate: Playing House at Walden Pond

This article analyzes Walden within the context of early suburbanization around northeastern cities. Drawing from and commenting on popular pattern-book literature, Thoreau seeks to address in a new way the well-published desires and concerns of the nation's city-trapped young men through the cultivation of unreal estate at Walden Pond.
Discovery of three X-ray luminous pre-main-sequence stars

Three X-ray sources found serendipitously in Einstein images of the Taurus-Auriga cloud complex were observed at the McGraw-Hill Observatory and are found to be associated with stars of approximately 12 mag with weak H-alpha emission. The stars lie on the edges of dark clouds and are spectroscopically similar to the least active emission-line pre-main-sequence stars. Although they lie well above the ZAMS in the H-R diagram, they do not exhibit ultraviolet excess, strong optical variability, or evidence for mass outflow/inflow characteristics of the more active T Tauri stars. Their only unusual property is high X-ray luminosity (approximately 10 to the 30th ergs/s). It is suggested that the X-ray emission from pre-main-sequence stars is not closely linked to the conditions giving rise to their unusual spectroscopic properties. The emission may instead represent an enhanced form of the coronal activity producing X-rays observed in late-type main-sequence stars.
Introduction to Computing Systems: From Bits and Gates to C and Beyond

From the Publisher: The reason most students do not understand their first programming language is because they are forced to memorize technical details. They do not understand the basic underpinnings. This book is based on the premise that starting with a high level programming language has its shortcomings This premise lead to Patt/Patel's "bottom-up approach" found in "Introduction To Computing. " This text covers (in order) a switch level abstraction of a MOS Transistor,Logic Gates,latches,logic structures (MUX,Decoder,Adder,gated latches),finally culminating in an implementation of memory. From there,the book moves on to the Von Neumann model of execution,then a simple computer (the LC-2),machine language programming and then assembly language programming of the LC-2,the high level language C,recursion,and finally elementary data structures. The book establishes a foundation that can easily be built upon
Review of the book: Y. Ben-Haim, Robust Reliability in the Mechanical Sciences, Springer-Verlag, Berlin, 1996

It is widely accepted that probabilistic methods for reliability assessment can lead to large errors if little information is available about uncertainties. The reason is that constructing a probabilistic model of an uncertain variable usually requires too much data. If little data is available, we usually have to do sweeping assumptions to construct a probabilistic model, which may lead to erroneous results. Ben Haim's book presents an alternative method to probabilistie methods for reliability assessment of mechanical systems whose properties and their loads are uncertain. This method constructs a set that is usually centered at the nominal values of the uncertain variables, and envelops their values. The size of this set is controlled by a parameter, called uncertainty parameter. The larger the uncertainty parameter, the larger can be the deviation of the uncertain variables from their nominal values. It is logical to expect that a robust system can operate satisfactorily even when the variables deviate considerably from their nominal values. Thus, robust reliability of a system is the largest value of the uncertainty parameter for which the system survives. The theory presented in this book considers that all uncertain variables vary in a convex set. In many problems, this allows finding closed form solutions for the combination of values of the uncertain variables that correspond to the worst case scenario. This in turn allows us to calculate the robust reliability of a system efficiently. The book is very clearly written and easy to understand. Most theorems that form the foundation of robust reliability theory are not proven. Yet, they are rigorously stated and their physical meaning is presented very well. The book can be used in a senior or a graduate course on structural
Sample displacement mode chromatography: purification of proteins by use of a high-performance anion-exchange column

Abstract In sample displacement mode (SDM) chromatography, the column is overloaded with sample unit it is saturated with the product of interest, while weakly binding impurities are displaced. Because the methanol makes use of the full capacity of a column, it is interesting for large-scale fine purification of proteins. By using two columns in series, the product can be separted from both strongly and weakly binding impurities. The working principle of SDM was proved by using Mono Qion-exchange columns. Crude samples of ovalbumin and soybean trypsin inhibitor were applied to one- and two-column systems and the sequence and purity of both the displaced and the eluted components were determined by off-line analyses. Conditions such as column dimensions, load flow-rate, buffer type and temperature have to be optimized for each target protein and associated impurities in order to maximize the yield and purity by minimizing overlapping.
Prospective Associations Between Prosocial Behavior and Social Dominance in Early Childhood: Are Sharers the Best Leaders?

A short-term longitudinal study during early childhood (N = 96; M = 42.80; SD = 7.57) investigated the concurrent and prospective association between prosocial behavior and social dominance. Time-intensive school-based focal child sampling with continuous recording observations of prosocial behavior to peers were conducted and teacher-reports of social dominance were collected. The study documents significant prospective links between prosocial behavior to peers and increases in social dominance over time. Social dominance was not associated with changes in prosocial behavior. The findings extend past empirical work in early childhood and future directions are discussed.
Cannibalism in the Madagascan dinosaur Majungatholus atopus

Many lines of evidence have been brought to bear on the question of theropod feeding ecology, including functional and physiological considerations, morphological constraints, taphonomic associations, and telling--although rare--indications of direct ingestion. Tooth marks of theropods, although rarely described and generally left unassigned to a particular taxon, can provide unique clues into predator-prey interaction, and can also yield insights into the extent of carcass utilization. Here we describe a sample of tooth-marked dinosaur bone recovered from three well-documented localities in the Upper Cretaceous Maevarano Formation of Madagascar that provides insights into the feeding ecology of the abelisaurid theropod Majungatholus atopus. Intensely tooth-marked elements from multiple individuals show that Majungatholus defleshed dinosaur carcasses. Furthermore, Majungatholus clearly fed upon the remains of not only sauropods, but also conspecifics, and thus was a cannibal. Cannibalism is a common ecological strategy among extant carnivores, but until now the evidence in relation to carnivorous dinosaurs has been sparse and anecdotal.
THE SHAPE OF THE TRACHEIDS IN THE PINE

It is well known that pine wood consists of slender fibers, varying in length in different trees and in different parts of the same tree. In the seventy-second annual ring of a tree IIo years old (Pinus silvestris), Sanio found that the fibers, isolated by maceration, averaged 4.2I mm. in length by 0.032 mm. in width, thus being 130 times as long as they are wide (Sanio, i872). In the first ring he found them shorter (0.78 mm.) and relatively wider (o.oi6 mm.), being then but 5o times as long as they are wide. We have not repeated tdiese muihsame Arbeit 'of measuring isolated macerated fibers, but shall deal with them in well-developed wood of the white pine (Pinus strobus) where they are 30 , in diameter and presumably 2.0 mm. long. Thus they are cells some seventy times as long as wide, which because of large size and clear-cut walls afford an excellent opportunity to study the geometrical shape of elongated cells, if indeed they have any definable and mathematically presentable form. Maceration shows that these fibers or tracheids, like smooth muscle fibers, are "elongated tapering elements," rounded or angular in cross section; but maceration does not reveal the number of contacts with other cells, nor the shapes of those contacts, which are essential data for any geometrical descrlptlon. By reconstruction from transverse serial sections, all these specifications can be supplied. Although less than a hundred fibers have been examined in this way, determining every contact with adjacent cells and the shape thereof, it is clear that these tracheids have a typical form, and a peculiar arrangement by no means shared by smooth muscle fibers. Instead of describing the graphic reconstructions with their casual irregularities and then attempting their interpretation, it is simpler to begin with the perfect geometrical forms which this study has shown to be relevant. The actual shapes can thus be gradually introduced in their full significance. The basic tetrakaidechdral shape in prosenchymal orien taion. Previous studies have shown that both animal and vegetable cells in masses are pnmarily 14-hedral, for the soundest of physical reasons.2 When transverse divisions prevail, the 14-hedra are oriented with facets above and below, as
Matrix scaling of subjective probabilities of economic forecasts

Abstract This paper illustrates the application to economic forecasting of a recently developed subjective probability scaling technique. The technique entails eigenvector scaling of paired dominance response judgements. Empirical results, derived from conditional probabilities of pairs of economic scenarios, are encouraging.
Activity, attention, and aggression in learning disabled children

Abstract Research has documented a reliable statistical association between specific learning disabilities in children and certain difficulties in adapting to the behavioral demands of traditional elementary school classrooms. As compared to others their age, many learning disabled children are overactive, inattentive, impulsive, and distractible in such classrooms. Indirect attempts to treat the learning disabilities by changing these associated behaviors have, however, not been very successful. It is certainly possible, for example, to reduce a child's activity and increase on‐task behavior by drugs, behavior modification, or other environmental manipulations, but this seems to have little effect on learning unless academic performance is itself the focus of the treatment. Direct remediation of the academic problem, on the other hand, often has favorable effects on some of the other disturbing behaviors. Thus therapists should focus their efforts upon improving the child's academic skills, regarding hyp...
Development of a method to detect and quantify Aspergillus fumigatus conidia by quantitative PCR for environmental air samples

Exposure to Aspergillus fumigatus is linked with respiratory diseases such as asthma, invasive aspergillosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis. Molecular methods using quantitative PCR (qPCR) offer advantages over culture and optical methods for estimating human exposures to microbiological agents such as fungi. We describe an assay that uses lyticase to digest A. fumigatus conidia followed by TaqMan qPCR to quantify released DNA. This method will allow analysis of airborne A. fumigatus samples collected over extended time periods and provide a more representative assessment of chronic exposure. The method was optimized for environmental samples and incorporates: single tube sample preparation to reduce sample loss, maintain simplicity, and avoid contamination; hot start amplification to reduce non-specific primer/probe annealing; and uracil-N-glycosylase to prevent carryover contamination. An A. fumigatus internal standard was developed and used to detect PCR inhibitors potentially found in air samples. The assay detected fewer than 10 A. fumigatus conidia per qPCR reaction and quantified conidia over a 4-log10 range with high linearity (R2 >0.99) and low variability among replicate standards (CV=2.0%) in less than 4 h. The sensitivity and linearity of qPCR for conidia deposited on filters was equivalent to conidia calibration standards. A. fumigatus DNA from 8 isolates was consistently quantified using this method, while non-specific DNA from 14 common environmental fungi, including 6 other Aspergillus species, was not detected. This method provides a means of analyzing long term air samples collected on filters which may enable investigators to correlate airborne environmental A. fumigatus conidia concentrations with adverse health effects.
Pulmonary sequellae of experimental pancreatitis.

Abstract An intrapancreatic injection of bile and trypsin was employed to induce acute pancreatitis in dogs. This method was shown to produce, consistently, a picture of acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis documented by examination of the pancreatic pathology and by measurement of the serum amylase. Surface activity of lung washings from the pancreatitic dogs was also measured. There was a decrease in the surface activity of the affected dogs' lung washings. Light microscopy demonstrated alveolar atelectasis and vascular congestion in these animals' lungs.
Information Provision, Organizational Constraints, and the Decision to Submit an Amicus Curiae Brief in a U.S. Supreme Court Case

How do organized interests select the Supreme Court cases in which to file amicus curiae briefs? Starting with the assumption that organized interests pursue policy influence, I argue that an organized interest will submit amicus curiae briefs in the cases that provide the greatest opportunity for the interest to influence the content of the majority opinion. Membership-based interests, however, will also have to consider the effect of their case-selection decisions on their ability to attract and retain membership support. I test my hypotheses with data on a large sample of organized interests and their amicus curiae brief filings in the 1991-1995 Supreme Court terms. The results of this analysis provide support for my hypotheses and indicate that organized interests seek out cases in which the justices are relatively information-poor. Membership-based interests also choose cases that allow for visible and apparently “successful” participation.