cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Assessment of diversity of Indian aromatic rice germplasm collections for morphological, agronomical, quality traits and molecular characters to identify a core set for crop improvement

Besides the Basmati, the aromatic rice germplasm (ARG) accessions are treasured for quality, medicinal value and aroma. The demand for aromatic rice is ever increasing. Genetic diversity is the source of variability to identify superior alleles controlling morphological, agronomic and quality traits, and molecular attributes. This study reports on the characterization of traits in ARG to identify a core set for breeding high-yielding varieties. The genetic diversity was measured on the distinctness, uniformity and stability (DUS) of 46 traits in 208 Indian ARG in field, greenhouse and laboratory tests. We performed individual and combined analysis of DUS traits and molecular data generated using 55 SSR markers. The genetic distances between genotypes were estimated using Mahalanobis D2 analysis and clustering by standardized Euclidean2 distances, Ward Minimum variance, Gowers’ similarity index and PowerMarker. The aim was to derive a core set of non-Basmati ARG using PowerCore to deploy in crop improvement. Eighty-two alleles were detected. Alleles per marker ranged from 2 (RM505) to 5 (RM276) with an average of 3.04 alleles. The markers are informative in analyzing the diversity as the PIC values estimated varied from 0.17 (RM577 on chromosome 1) to 0.72 (RM276 on chromosome 6) with an average of 0.54 per locus. RM276 with repeat motif of (AG)8A3(GA) 33 on chromosome 6 was the most informative (amplified 5 alleles). The combined analysis had shown genotypes in a few clusters to be more diverse than others. SSR markers RM289, RM505, RM577 and RM22866 were identified as genotype specific markers. With PowerCore, 46 genotypes (22%) were identified as a core set of ARG that represent all the alleles detected in the entire set investigated. 2-Acetyl-1-pyrroline is considered to impart aroma; it was not detected by GC–MS tests in many ARG. Forty-six genotypes in the core set have different maturity periods, plant statures, grain types and grain quality traits. A parent can be selected from the core set to improve aromatic rice depending on the breeding objective. The olfactory sensing of strong aroma emitted by cooked kernels of all ARG was found more decisive than the costly GC–MS tests.
Will a Burst in Federal Infrastructure Spending Accelerate the Recovery from the COVID-19 Recession?

Facing a highly uncertain and potentially sluggish recovery in a presidential election year, the president has pressed for increased infrastructure spending to boost the economy. If he continues to promote this idea, members of Congress may go along with this policy as a potential way to speed up the recovery. Because the current transportation funding bill is due to expire in September, there will be a window of opportunity to act. A limited number of research papers have carefully examined the impact of government investment spending on highways and other infrastructure since the Great Recession. Published papers have examined the effectiveness of the spending programs embodied in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). I show in this policy brief that the preponderance of evidence suggests that this type of spending does not significantly boost the economy in the short term. In particular, the most likely impact is a spending multiplier that is less than one. This implies that government investment spending reduces, or crowds out, some private spending.
Triaxial Balun With Inherent Harmonic Reflection for Millimeter-Wave Frequency Doublers

This article presents the design and utilization of a triaxial balun as a harmonic reflector (HR) for millimeter-wave frequency doublers (FDs). The triaxial structure consists of two vertically integrated transmission lines (TLs). The impedance of the asymmetric couplers can be tuned to independently control the reflection coefficients at the fundamental and second-harmonic frequencies. The performance of this reflector is analyzed in detail, and the effects of parasitics and nonideal terminations are investigated. Two FDs utilizing this approach were implemented in a 90-nm silicon–germanium (SiGe) BiCMOS platform, both with and without an output buffer. The bufferless design achieves a record peak output power and efficiency of 9.4 dBm and 12.1% at 130 GHz, respectively, with a bandwidth of 128–140 GHz. The buffered design achieves a peak output power of 8.85 dBm and 8.8% efficiency while operating over a 118–146-GHz bandwidth.
Random weighting in LASSO regression

We establish statistical properties of random-weighting methods in LASSO regression under different regularization parameters $\lambda_n$ and suitable regularity conditions. The random-weighting methods in view concern repeated optimization of a randomized objective function, motivated by the need for computational approximations to Bayesian posterior sampling. In the context of LASSO regression, we repeatedly assign analyst-drawn random weights to terms in the objective function (including the penalty terms), and optimize to obtain a sample of random-weighting estimators. We show that existing approaches have conditional model selection consistency and conditional asymptotic normality at different growth rates of $\lambda_n$ as $n \to \infty$. We propose an extension to the available random-weighting methods and establish that the resulting samples attain conditional sparse normality and conditional consistency in a growing-dimension setting. We find that random-weighting has both approximate-Bayesian and sampling-theory interpretations. Finally, we illustrate the proposed methodology via extensive simulation studies and a benchmark data example.
Robust machine-learning workflow for subsurface geomechanical characterization and comparison against popular empirical correlations

Abstract Accurate subsurface geomechanical characterization is critical for fossil and geothermal energy recovery and extraction of earth resources. Compressional and shear travel time logs (DTC and DTS) acquired using sonic logging tools facilitate subsurface geomechanical characterization, such as brittleness, elastic moduli, and rock consolidation. In this study, 8 ‘easy-to-acquire’ conventional well logs were processed using 3 shallow regression-type supervised-learning models, namely ordinary least squares (OLS), multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS), and artificial neural network (ANN), for depth-wise synthesis of compressional and shear travel times along the length of a well. Among the 6 models, MARS outperforms with R2 of 0.63 and 0.59 when synthesizing the compressional and shear travel times, respectively, in a new, unseen well. ANN models are not as stable as other shallow learning models. The 6 shallow learning models are trained and tested with 8481 data points acquired from a 4240-feet depth interval of a shale reservoir in Well 1, and the trained models are deployed in Well 2 for purposes of blind testing against 2920 data points from 1460-feet depth interval. Apart from the 6 shallow learning models, two widely used empirical models, Han Model (1987) and Castagna model (1985), are implemented and compared with the shallow learning models. Relative error of the MARS model in Well 2 is much smaller than the two empirical models and linear regression model, which indicates that the MARS model performs better than simple statistical and physics-based methods.
Association of single nucleotide polymorphisms in angiogenesis genes with expression of VEGF and VEGFR-2 in breast carcinoma.

288 Background: There is vast heterogeneity in the tumor expression of angiogenic proteins, namely Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and its cognate receptor VEGF Receptor-2 (VEGFR-2). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are widely known to be a causative factor in the regulation of the expression of various genes. In this study, we sought to associate whether or not SNPs in the Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1α (HIF-1α), VEGF, VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase (eNOS), Neuropilin-1 (NRP-1), or NRP-2 genes influence expression of angiogenic proteins in breast cancer tissues. Methods: Forty-four cases of breast tumor tissues were obtained from the pathology archives at Indiana University. ER/PR, HER2 status as well as histologic grade were obtained for all specimens. DNA was extracted from tumor blocks, and genotyping was performed for the following SNPs: HIF-1α (P582S, A588T), VEGF (-2578C/A, -1498C/T, -1154 G/A, -634G/C, & 936C/T), VEGFR-1 (-962C/T), VEGFR-2 (V297I & Q472H), eNOS(-786T/C, E298D), NRP-1(F561L, V733I), NRP-2 (K123R). Subsequently, immunohistochemistry (IHC) for VEGF & VEGFR-2 was performed and an H-Score for each sample was determined. T-test and Fisher’s exact test were used to assess associations between polymorphisms and protein expression. IHC for microvessel density as well as mRNA quantification will be assessed. Results: The VEGF-2578 A/-1498 C/-1154 G/-634 G/+936 C haplotype (freq.= 14%, H-Score=52) resulted in a significantly lower mean VEGFR-2 IHC H-Score when compared to the other two common haplotypes CTGGC (freq.= 28%, H-Score=124, p=.026) and CTGCC (freq.= 21%, H-Score=141, p=.012). No other associations between SNPs and protein expression of VEGF & VEGFR-2 were observed. Associations between genotype, protein expression, & microvessel density with known clinical variables are planned. Conclusion: Our data support a novel association between the VEGF-2578 A/-1498 C/-1154 G/-634 G/+936 C haplotype and decreased VEGFR-2 expression in breast cancer. Previous reports of these SNPs have not shown association between polymorphic variability in the promoter of the VEGF ligand and its expression of its cognate receptor VEGFR-2. Elucidation of the mechanisms of polymorphic induced cross-talk between VEGF & VEGFR-2 is ongoing.
Compact nanosecond pulse generator for cell electroperturbation experiments

The design of a compact pulse generator using a Blumlein PFN, is presented. A small Blumlein is utilized to produce high current and high voltage pulses applied to a standard 1mm electroporation cuvette. Alternative designs of the Blumlein are discussed. A MOSFET based resonant charger is also described.
Geocoding large population-level administrative datasets at highly resolved spatial scales

Using geographic information systems to link administrative databases with demographic, social, and environmental data allows researchers to use spatial approaches to explore relationships between exposures and health. Traditionally, spatial analysis in public health has focused on the county, zip code, or tract level because of limitations to geocoding at highly resolved scales. Using 2005 birth and death data from North Carolina, we examine our ability to geocode population-level datasets at three spatial resolutions – zip code, street, and parcel. We achieve high geocoding rates at all three resolutions, with statewide street geocoding rates of 88.0% for births and 93.2% for deaths. We observe differences in geocoding rates across demographics and health outcomes, with lower geocoding rates in disadvantaged populations and the most dramatic differences occurring across the urban-rural spectrum. Our results suggest highly resolved spatial data architectures for population-level datasets are viable through geocoding individual street addresses. We recommend routinely geocoding administrative datasets to the highest spatial resolution feasible, allowing public health researchers to choose the spatial resolution used in analysis based on an understanding of the spatial dimensions of the health outcomes and exposures being investigated. Such research, however, must acknowledge how disparate geocoding success across subpopulations may affect findings.
The origins of bioinformatics

Bioinformatics is often described as being in its infancy, but computers emerged as important tools in molecular biology during the early 1960s. A decade before DNA sequencing became feasible, computational biologists focused on the rapidly accumulating data from protein biochemistry. Without the benefits of super computers or computer networks, these scientists laid important conceptual and technical foundations for bioinformatics today.
Motor performance in children after traumatic brain injury

Traumatic brain injury can result in persistent impairments of motor performance that interfere with functional activities. This study compared the gross and fine motor performance of 14 traumatically brain-injured children (five to 15 years old, with loss of consciousness for at least 24 hours) to 14 normal children group matched for age and sex. All subjects had normal intelligence and no prior history of cognitive or motor delays. Subjects were assessed with the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency at least 16 months after injury. Results were compared using the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Highly significant differences were found between groups on the Gross Motor Composite. Although no significant differences were found on the Fine Motor Composite, a highly significant difference also was found on one of the fine motor sub-tests, Upper-Limb Speed and Dexterity. Subtest analysis revealed that when speed was a component of either fine or gross motor tasks, a pattern of significant differences was found. This is consistent with previous research in neuropsychology, which has demonstrated problems in speeded motor performance of children with brain injuries. These findings provide direction for further research, clinical assessment, and treatment of this at-risk population.
Spectroscopic characteristics of carbon dots (C-dots) derived from carbon fibers and conversion to sulfur-bridged C-dots nanosheets.

We synthesized sub‐10 nm carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) consistent with photoluminescent carbon dots (C-dots) from carbon fiber starting material. The production of different C-dots fractions was monitored over seven days. During the course of the reaction, one fraction of C-dots species with relatively high photoluminescence was short-lived, emerging during the first hour of reaction but disappearing after one day of reaction. Isolation of this species during the first hour of the reaction was crucial to obtaining higher-luminescent C-dots species. When the reaction proceeded for one week, the appearance of larger nanostructures was observed over time, with lateral dimensions approaching 200 nm. The experimental evidence suggests that these larger species are formed from small C-dot nanoparticles bridged together by sulfur-based moieties between the C-dot edge groups, as if the C-dots polymerized by cross-linking the edge groups through sulfur bridges. Their size can be tailored by controlling the reaction time. Our results highlight the variety of CNP products, from sub‐10 nm C-dots to ~200 nm sulfur-containing carbon nanostructures, that can be produced over time during the oxidation reaction of the graphenic starting material. Our work provides a clear understanding of when to stop the oxidation reaction during the top-down production of C-dots to obtain highly photoluminescent species or a target average particle size.
Gloss and Stain Resistance of Ceramic-Polymer CAD/CAM Restorative Blocks

Objective To evaluate the gloss and stain resistance of several new ceramic-polymer CAD/CAM blocks Materials and Methods Specimens (4 mm) were sectioned from: Enamic (polymer-infused ceramic), LAVA Ultimate (nano-ceramic reinforced polymer), e.max (lithium disilicate), Paradigm C (porcelain), and Paradigm MZ100 (composite). Specimens were wet polished on a polishing wheel to either 320 grit silicon paper (un-polished, N = 8) or 2000 grit silicon carbide papers followed by a 0.05 μm alumina slurry (polished, N = 8). Initial gloss and color (L*a*b*) values were measured. Specimens were stored in a staining solution at 37°C in darkness for 12 days (simulating 1 year). After storage, L*a*b* values re-measured. Change in color was reported as ΔE00 based on the CIEDE2000 formula. Gloss and ΔE00 were analyzed by two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (alpha = .05). Separate one-way ANOVA and Tukey post-hoc analyses were performed for both polish conditions and all materials. Results Two-way ANOVA showed that factors material, polish and their interaction were significant for both gloss and ΔE00 (p < .01). Post-hoc analysis reveals that polished specimens had significantly less color change than un-polished specimens for Paradigm C and LAVA Ultimate. E.max had significantly higher gloss and less color change than all other materials. Conclusion The composition and polish of CAD/CAM materials affects gloss and stain resistance. Clinical Significance Ceramic-polymer hybrid materials can achieve the high gloss required for esthetic restorations. These materials should be polished in order to minimize staining. If polished, all of the tested materials exhibited clinically acceptable color changes at 1 year of simulated staining. (J Esthet Restor Dent 28:S40–S45, 2016)
Observation of an electric quadrupole transition in the X-ray absorption spectrum of a Cu(II) complex

Abstract The polarized X-ray absorption cross section of the ls → 3d transition in a square planar CuCl2−4 complex has been measured with respect to rotation about an axis normal to the CuCl4. The cross section exhibits four-fold periodicity about this axis, indicating that the transition is primarily due to coupling with the electric quadrupole component of the radiation. The vibronically allowed dipole transition is approximately one-third as the quadrupolar cross section. These observations are in agreement with SCF Xα multiple-scattered wave calculations, and may have implications for the intepretation of other X-ray absorption spectra. The half-filled d orbital is shown to have the angular characteristics of dx2−y2.
The increasing use of liver transplantation surgical techniques in the management of renal and nonrenal cancer with or without inferior vena cava tumor thrombus.

We congratulate Facciuto et al. [1] for their report on their surgical experience with retroperitoneal tumors, mainly renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with tumor thrombus extending into the inferior vena cava (IVC). There outcomes were very good, and they had no intraoperative or postoperative mortality. We are very pleased that other centers are now using liver mobilization and liver transplantion techniques for these large retroperitoneal tumors as we have previously emphasized how useful this approach is for managing these complex tumors. I would like to clarify and expand on a few points that address some additional complex situations, but the consonance between our two series is startling. During the past 13 years at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and Jackson Memorial Hospital, we have used liver transplantation techniques (conventional or piggyback style mobilization) [2–9] to gain adequate exposure of the upper abdomen when dealing with urological tumors involving the IVC [2–4]. These techniques have been described in detail previously [3–5]. Frequently, we also have been able to control the intrapericardial IVC transabdominally [2–9] and have described the surgical approach for managing tumor thrombus of the retrohepatic and suprahepatic portions of the inferior vena cava: level III in our new classification [4]. In our paper, 23 patients with level III tumors underwent surgical resection using liver transplant techniques for mobilization of the liver off the IVC (piggyback mobilization). None of the patients required a thoracoabominal approach, cardiopulmonary or veno-venous bypass. In three patients, the intrapericardial IVC was controlled without the use of a sternotomy [4]. Our experience now extends to 52 patients with level III tumors, and we have described how to avoid veno-venous bypass [6] and how to deal with RCC with IVC thrombus causing Budd-Chairi syndrome [5]. This approach can be applied to even more complex situations, including removing adherent [2] and nonadherent [7] level IV (intra-atrial thrombus) tumor thrombus without a thoracoabdominal approach, median sternotomy, and/or cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). These liver transplantation techniques also can be invaluable when dealing with adrenal tumors that have IVC tumor thrombus extending above the diaphragm [10–12]. The extensive experience accumulated at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Memorial Hospital demonstrates that these difficult tumors can almost always be managed transabdominally without CPB even if the thrombus extends into the atrium. We are delighted that other centers are now embracing the techniques that we have described.
Zenker's diverticulostomy with cricopharyngeal myotomy: The endoscopic approach

The gold standard for the surgical treatment of Zenker’s diverticulum is diverticulectomy and cricopharyngeal myotomy by an external approach. Unfortunately, many of the patients who present with this entity are elderly and have significant comorbidities that increase operative risk. Traditional minimally invasive approaches have not met with widespread success. However, by combining the exposure afforded by the otolaryngologist’s newer bivalved operating laryngoscopes with the operative techniques made possible by the general surgeon’s laparoscopic instrumentation and staplers, it is possible to achieve reliable and safe endoscopic outpatient management of this disease entity, with resumption of a normal diet on the same day. We reviewed the physiologic basis, instrumentation, and technical considerations for this endoscopic procedure. We also documented our operative experience with 21 patients treated over an 18-month period. Successful minimally invasive management of Zenker’s diverticulum was possible in 18 of 21 patients. In two patients, anatomic limitations of mouth and neck anatomy precluded exposure of the diverticulum; in another patient, the diverticulum was too small. Small operative perforations of the apex of the diverticulum occurred in three cases. Two of these perforations were repaired primarily with minimally invasive techniques; in the other case, treatment consisted of observation alone. In all but this last patient, oral diet was resumed on the day of the operation. Eleven of the patients were discharged from the hospital on the same day; the remaining patients went home the following morning. With proper patient selection, minimally invasive management of Zenker’s diverticulum is a safe and effective surgical technique that allows for outpatient management of the majority of patients who present with this disease.
The conversion of L-valine to glucose and glycogen in the rat.

Abstract l -Valine labeled in the methyl groups has been fed to fasting as well as to phlorizinized rats. Glycogen and glucose have been isolated and degraded. The glucose and glycogen were found to be uniformly labeled and a possible explanation for this observation is given. It was shown that, depending on the level of l -valine administration, up to 38% of the isotope was expired as carbon dioxide. At higher levels of administration a considerable percentage (about 15% in 8 hr.) of the isotope was excreted in the urine.
Teaching the nature of science through scientific errors

Error in science is a prime occasion to teach the nature of science, especially the central feature of tentativeness. Error types also reflect corresponding methodologies of science, critical for practicing science and (in a context of scientific literacy) analyzing its claims. Effective efforts in teaching about error will ideally be informed by earlier educational perspectives and a schema for inventorying and organizing error types. Approaches using student-directed inquiry have limits, whereas guided-inquiry historical case studies seem appropriate vehicles. On a larger scale, one may also envision a prospective learning progression on successively deeper understandings of error in science. Sample case studies and opportunities for further reading are identified. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Sci Ed 96:904–926, 2012
Photoconductivity, electroluminescence and hole injection in thin Nb2O5 diodes

The temperature dependence of electroluminescence, photoconductivity, and current-voltage characteristics of Nb-Nb2O5-Au, Nb-Nb2O5-Ag, and Nb-Nb2O5-Cu diodes less than 300 A thick have been measured. Nb-Nb2O5-Au diodes are electroluminescent for Au=+. The energy of electroluminescence radiation lies between 1.1 and 1.6 eV; the threshold voltage for electroluminescent is 1.1 V. For a given oxide thickness, the relative electroluminescent intensity is temperature independent between 200°K and 300°K. No electroluminescence is detected from Nb-Nb2O5-Cu diodes. The maximum photovoltage developed in Nb-Nb2O5-Au diodes is 1.05 V. Photovoltage-photocurrent characteristics are determined by current-voltage characteristics. The current-voltage characteristics of diodes with oxide thickness between 50 A and 260 A have a current-controlled negative resistance regime for Au=+ when diode voltages are somewhat higher than the minimum voltage for electroluminescence. For Au=-, no electroluminescence is detected; for diodes less than 500 A thick the current at constant voltage increases with decreasing temperature. A model is proposed in which hole injection into an impurity band in Nb2O5 occurs at a Schottky barrier at the Nb2O5 interface. The nature of the Schottky barrier and the extent of hole injection depend on the work function of the counterelectrode metal.
The two faces of FBW7 in cancer drug resistance

Chemotherapy is an important therapeutic approach for cancer treatment. However, drug resistance is an obstacle that often impairs the successful use of chemotherapies. Therefore, overcoming drug resistance would lead to better therapeutic outcomes for cancer patients. Recently, studies by our own and other groups have demonstrated that there is an intimate correlation between the loss of the F-box and WD repeat domain-containing 7 (FBW7) tumor suppressor and the incurring drug resistance. While loss of FBW7 sensitizes cancer cells to certain drugs, FBW7-/- cells are more resistant to other types of chemotherapies. FBW7 exerts its tumor suppressor function by promoting the degradation of various oncoproteins that regulate many cellular processes, including cell cycle progression, cellular metabolism, differentiation, and apoptosis. Since loss of the FBW7 tumor suppressor is linked to drug resistance, FBW7 may represent a novel therapeutic target to increase drug sensitivity of cancer cells to conventional chemotherapeutics. This paper thus focuses on the new functional aspects of FBW7 in drug resistance.
A new look at Ecologic Evolutionary Units (EEUs)

Abstract Ecologic Evolutionary Units (EEUs) were long intervals of Phanerozoic time during which marine communities maintained stable ecologic structures. Boucot (1983) recognized 12 Ecologic Evolutionary Units and numbered them EEU I through EEU XII. The Ecologic Evolutionary Units are revised, and three are eliminated because they were intervals of community recovery following extinction events. Community structures were controlled by the composition of the Evolutionary Faunas of Sepkoski (1981), and communities became increasingly complex during each successive Evolutionary Fauna. To reflect their connections with the EFs the nine EEUs are renamed using a prefix designating the Evolutionary Fauna in which the EEUs occur. C1 and C2 are from the Cambrian EF, P1–4 are from the Paleozoic EF, and M1–3 are from the Modern EF. Within each Evolutionary Fauna communities in similar environmental setting in different EEUs have similar ecologic structures, and are recognized as congruent communities. Extinction events destroyed community organizations and removed evolutionary constraints, which allowed many species to move into new ecologic settings during the recovery intervals.
The NIST Detector-Based Luminous Intensity Scale.

The Systeme International des Unites (SI) base unit for photometry, the candela, has been realized by using absolute detectors rather than absolute sources. This change in method permits luminous intensity calibrations of standard lamps to be carried out with a relative expanded uncertainty (coverage factor k = 2, and thus a 2 standard deviation estimate) of 0.46 %, almost a factor-of-two improvement. A group of eight reference photometers has been constructed with silicon photodiodes, matched with filters to mimic the spectral luminous efficiency function for photopic vision. The wide dynamic range of the photometers aid in their calibration. The components of the photometers were carefully measured and selected to reduce the sources of error and to provide baseline data for aging studies. Periodic remeasurement of the photometers indicate that a yearly recalibration is required. The design, characterization, calibration, evaluation, and application of the photometers are discussed.
Plasmon energy measurements of λ in Nb3Ge and Nb

Abstract Reflection electron energy loss spectroscopy from thick trisputtered films has been used to measure the plasmon energy in Nb, Nb-Ti alloys, and Nb3Ge. The respective plasmon energies in Nb, Nb0.45 Ti0.55 and Nb3Ge are measured to be 9.65±0.10, 8.90 ±0.08, and 4.91 ± 0.08 eV. When these values are combined with restivity data λ values of 1.19 ± 0.12 for Nb and 2.65 ± 0.40 for Nb3Ge are obtained.
Parathyroid hormone deficiency with Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy.

ABSTRACT Albright described a group of patients with characteristic skeletal changes which occurred with parathyroid hormone (PTH)-resistant hypocalcemia (pseudohypoparathyroidism), or which occurred with normocalcemia (pseudopseudohypoparathyroidism). A case is reported of a patient who had hypocalcemia associated with these skeletal changes. On the basis of a low circulating PTH level and normal urinary cyclic AMP and phosphorus excretion in response to PTH infusion, the hypoparathyroidism was the hormone-deficient variety. The combination of PTH deficiency and what has been called pseudo-pseudohypoparathyroidism points out the confusion in the existing terminology, and has led us to propose a simplified classification of diseases of PTH deficiency or unresponsiveness. Hypoparathyroidism should be categorized into hormone-deficient and hormoneresistant forms. The skeletal changes described by Albright should be called Albright's hereditary osteodystrophy and can be found alone or with either form of hyp...
A note on noise transmission in digital control systems

In this correspondence some basic results are derived for the noise analysis of digital control systems. The results relate the transmission of noise through the system to the sampling rate used in the system.
Prediction and measurements of thermal residual stresses in AA2024-T3 friction stir welds as a function of welding parameters

Friction Stir Welding (FSW) induces thermal residual stresses resulting in distortions in thin-walled structures. In order to understand and quantify this phenomenon, simulations and experiments of FSW on aluminium alloy (AA) 2024-T3 have been performed using different rotational and welding speeds. A sequentially coupled finite element (FE) model was used to study the residual stresses caused by the thermal cycling induced from FSW. The 3D FE model used temperature-dependent mechanical and thermophysical material properties. The predicted longitudinal stresses peaked at ~300 MPa and had a ‘‘W’’ profile with tensile stress peaks in the weld and compressive stresses outside the weld. In the FE model, the influence of process parameters on residual stress distribution was studied. The application of ‘hot’ welding conditions, i.e. low welding speed and high rotational speed, increased the residual stresses significantly, mainly in the transverse direction. Conversely, ‘cold’ welding conditions resulted in lower residual stresses. The magnitude and distribution of the residual stresses predicted by the FE model were validated by neutron diffraction. The results indicate a good agreement between the measured and predicted residual stresses in AA2024-T3.
The importance of body tissue composition to calorimetric assessments of ice content in whole animals

1. 1.|Calorimetry was used to estimate ice content of frozen wood frogs (Rana sylvatica). Values for the composition and thermal constants of their tissues were manipulated mathematically to ascertain the impact of each parameter on estimates of ice content. 2. 2.|Small variations in body water content, melting point and specific heat of the dry mass had slight to moderate effects on estimated ice content. 3. 3.|Large changes in estimates were noted if the properties of the dry mass were totaly discounted. Calculations that do not include the relatively low specific heat of dry tissues significantly decrease estimated ice content. 4. 4.|Thus, accurate measurements of ice content require the inclusion of both body water and dry mass.
Parametric instabilities in finite inhomogeneous media

The general first-order parametric-instability equations for an inhomogeneous finite-size plasma are solved both analytically and numerically. It is shown that the wave-number mismatch introduced by plasma gradients does not necessarily convert absolute instability into convective instability, even for large systems. Absolute instability can also occur when the length of the system is determined by a smooth spatial dependence of the growth rate.
The bacterial irr protein is required for coordination of heme biosynthesis with iron availability

Heme is a ubiquitous macromolecule that serves as the active group of proteins involved in many cellular processes. The multienzyme pathway for heme formation culminates with the insertion of iron into a protoporphyrin ring. The cytotoxicity of porphyrins suggests the need for coordination of its biosynthesis with iron availability. We isolated a mutant strain of the bacterium Bradyrhizobium japonicum that, under iron limitation, accumulated protoporphyrin and showed aberrantly high expression of hemB, an iron-regulated gene encoding the heme synthesis enzyme delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase. The strain carries a loss of function mutation in irr, a newly described gene that encodes a putative member of the GntR family of bacterial transcriptional regulators. Irr accumulated only under iron limitation, and turned over rapidly upon an increase in iron availability. A separate role for Irr in controlling the cellular iron level was inferred based on a deficiency in high affinity iron transport activity in the irr strain, and suggests that regulation of the heme pathway is coordinated with iron homeostasis. A high level of protoporphyrin accumulation is not a normal consequence of nutritional iron deprivation, thus a mechanism for iron-dependent control of heme biosynthesis may be present in other organisms.
FACTORS CONTROLLING NITROGEN CYCLING AND NITROGEN SATURATION IN NORTHERN TEMPERATE FOREST ECOSYSTEMS

An analysis of the factors controlling rates of nitrogen cycling in northern temperate forest ecosystems is presented based on a quantitative analysis of an extensive data set for forests in Wisconsin and Massachusetts as those data are synthesized in a computer model (VEGIE) of organic matter and nutrient dynamics. The model is of the "lumped-parameter," nutrient-flux-density type, dealing with major components of forest ecosystems rather than stems or species. It deals explicitly with the interactions among light, water, and nutrient availability in determining transient and equilibrium rates of primary production and nutrient cycling. Data are presented for parameterizing the plant component of the system at either the species or community level. A major conclusion is that the ultimate control on equilibrium nitrogen-cycling rates resides not within the nitrogen cycle itself (for example in litter quality or net primary production [NPP] allocation patterns) but rather in ratios of resource-use efficiency by vegetation as compared with the ratios of resource availability. Litter quality and allocation patterns, along with rates of N deposition, do affect the rate at which a system approaches the equilibrium cycling rate. The model is used to explain observed variation in nitrogen-cycling rates among forest types, and to predict the timing and occurrence of "nitrogen saturation" (N availability in excess of biotic demand) as a function of nitrogen deposition rates and harvesting.
Co-movements of Oil, Gold, the U.S. Dollar, and Stocks

This paper examines the comovements of several macro-variables in the world economy over a period of more than twenty years. Long-term co movements are examined by tracking the cointegration, common trend factor and the spiller index over these variables (gold price, stock price, real exchange rate for dollar and the oil price of crude oil). Preminary examination suggests the possibility of cointegration among these variables indicating comovements, although the spillover indices are found to be very small.
Estimation of Signal Coherence Threshold and Concealed Spectral Lines Applied to Detection of Turbofan Engine Combustion Noise

Combustion noise from turbofan engines has become important, as the noise from sources like the fan and jet are reduced. An aligned and un-aligned coherence technique has been developed to determine a threshold level for the coherence and thereby help to separate the coherent combustion noise source from other noise sources measured with far-field microphones. This method is compared with a statistics based coherence threshold estimation method. In addition, the un-aligned coherence procedure at the same time also reveals periodicities, spectral lines, and undamped sinusoids hidden by broadband turbofan engine noise. In calculating the coherence threshold using a statistical method, one may use either the number of independent records or a larger number corresponding to the number of overlapped records used to create the average. Using data from a turbofan engine and a simulation this paper shows that applying the Fisher z-transform to the un-aligned coherence can aid in making the proper selection of samples and produce a reasonable statistics based coherence threshold. Examples are presented showing that the underlying tonal and coherent broad band structure which is buried under random broadband noise and jet noise can be determined. The method also shows the possible presence of indirect combustion noise.
Design And Fabrication Of Heat Resistant Multilayers

Many promising applications of multilayer x-ray optical elements subject them to intense radiation. This paper discusses the selection of optimal pairs of materials to resist heat damage and presents simulations of multilayer performance under extreme heat loadings.
Preparation of fluorescent basic fibroblast growth factor: localization in living retinal microvascular endothelial cells

A biologically active fluorescent derivative of recombinant human basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) was prepared by immobilization on heparin-Sepharose 4B (HS) and derivatization with the fluorophore, Texas Red (TR). TR-bFGF was separated from free dye and carrier protein by elution from HS using 1.5 M NaCl. TR-bFGF contained an average of two dye molecules bound per bFGF, retained its mitogenic activity and was visible using a fluorescence microscope equipped with silicon intensified target camera (SIT). TR-bFGF stimulated the growth of bovine aortic endothelial cells (BAEC), microvessel endothelial cells (MVEC) and BHK-21 cells grown in culture. BAEC, MVEC and BHK-21 cells treated with 20 ng ml-1 (1 nM) TR-bFGF for 72 hr were stimulated over serum controls by 87, 26 and 6%, respectively. TR-bFGF stimulated EC growth was inhibited in a dose-dependent fashion when cells were coincubated with microM chloroquine. When EC were treated with TR-bFGF at 4 degrees C and then monitored at 37 degrees C, bright, focal, cytoplasmic spots were observed, which accumulated as punctate, perinuclear fluorescence. EC internalization of TR-bFGF was inhibited 80% by the addition of 100-fold molar excess unlabeled bFGF or by maintaining cultures at 4 degrees C. TR-bFGF colocalized with an EC lysosomal marker, but TR-bFGF was not detected in the nucleus. Results of these localization studies suggest that TR-bFGF stimulates EC proliferation without entering the nucleus.
Backdrop, flat, and prop: The stage for active perceptual inquiry

Lehar's revival of phenomenology and his all-encompassing Gestalt Bubble model are ambitious and stimulating. I offer an illustrated caution about phenomenology, a more fractured alternative to his Bubble model, and two lines of phenomena that may disqualify his isomorphism. I think a perceptual-inquiry model can contend.
Synthetic studies towards paraherquamide F: synthesis of the 1,7-dihydropyrano[2,3-g]indole ring system

A substituted 1,7-dihydropyrano[2,3-g]indole suitable for elaboration to paraherquamide F has been prepared in eight steps and 6% overall yield. The key steps are a Fischer indolization and a Claisen rearrangement.
Methamphetamine and core temperature in the rat: Ambient temperature, dose, and the effect of a D2 receptor blocker

Methamphetamine (METH) induces hyperthermia in warm and hypothermia in cool environments. Our first goal was to further study the role of ambient temperature in METH’s effect on core temperature in rats. Previously, these effects were primarily demonstrated in high doses; we extended this investigation to the low-dose range (1 mg/kg METH). Our second goal was to identify the role of the D2 receptor in METH’s effects in cool ambient temperatures. Rats received METH (saline, 1, 5, and 10 mg/kg), raclopride (saline, 0.3, 0.6, and 1.2 mg/kg), or a combination (all doses of raclopride combined with 10 mg/kg METH). Treatments occurred in ambient temperatures of 18, 24, or 30 °C. Consistent with prior research, 5 and 10 mg/kg METH caused hyperthermia or hypothermia in a dose- and ambient temperature-dependent manner (60 min after METH). In contrast, 1 mg/kg produced similar levels of hyperthermia at all ambient temperatures. These findings suggest that a threshold METH dose exists; below this dose, METH still changes core temperature, but CNS control over temperature regulation is left intact. In our experiments regarding D2 blockade, raclopride decreased METH-induced core temperature at 30 and 24 °C (60 min after METH), consistent with previous findings. We extended these findings by demonstrating that in a cool ambient temperature (18 °C), raclopride pretreatment also lowered the core temperature response to METH. Although the D2 receptor is known to mediate hypothermia, the combination of METH and D2 blockade suggests a complex mediation of the core temperature response, perhaps involving neurotransmitter interactions.
Macrostructure and environment‐influenced surface layer in epoxy polymers

Several epoxy polymers were shown to be two-phase systems; roughly spherical floccules arranged in layers in an interstitial fluid resembling the starting materials. The size of the floccules was found to be dependent on the initial rate of cure of a given polymer. The density, hardness, glass transition temperature, etching rate, and dielectric strength were related to the floccule size. The surface layer in the epoxy polymers and in several thermoplastic polymers was found to be different from the bulk material. The properties of the surface layer are dependent on the surface energy of the mold material and on the atmospheric environment. A gradient in properties was found to extend from the polymer surface several hundred microns into the bulk.
Convergence to the Ground-State Energy in the Thermodynamic Limit of the Ising Model in a Strong Transverse Field

For the quantum mechanical Ising model in a strong transverse field we show that the convergence of the ground-state energy per site as the volume goes to infinity has an Ornstein-Zernicke behavior. That is, if the diameter of thed-dimensional lattice is given byL, the absolute value of the difference of the ground-state energy per site and its limit is asymptotically exp(-ξL)L−d/2 for some positive constantξ. We also show that the correlation function has the same behavior. Our results are derived by cluster expansions, using a method of Bricmont and Frohlich which we extend to the quantum mechanical case.
SEX PHEROMONE OF THE FURNITURE CARPET BEETLE, ANTHRENUS FLAVIPES (COLEOPTERA: DERMESTIDAE)

Females of Anthrenus flavipes LeConte emit a sex pheromone and exhibit a calling behavior that is related to the release of the pheromone. Calling began after the onset of light, was most intense 1 to 2 h later, and ceased after 4 h of light when the insects were held in a 16:8 LD photoperiod. Chemical studies showed the presence of a major sex pheromone that is an unsaturated carboxylic acid.
Unifying artifacts and activities in a visual tool for distributed software development teams

In large projects, software developers struggle with two sources of complexity - the complexity of the code itself, and the complexity of the process of producing it. Both of these concerns have been subjected to considerable research investigation, and tools and techniques have been developed to help manage them. However, these solutions have generally been developed independently, making it difficult to deal with problems that inherently span both dimensions. We describe Augur, a visualization tool that supports distributed software development processes. Augur creates visual representations of both software artifacts and software development activities, and, crucially, allows developers to explore the relationship between them. Augur is designed not for managers, but for the developers participating in the software development process. We discuss some of the early results of informal evaluation with open source software developers. Our experiences to date suggest that combining views of artifacts and activities is both meaningful and valuable to software developers.
Biases in memory for and use of inconsistent beliefs in stereotyping

Some research has suggested that level of inconsistency of information that invalidates expectancy-based stereotypes or trait labels is one of several moderating variables that determine the memorability and use of inconsistent information (e.g. Rojahn & Pettigrew, 1992). Two experiments were designed to identify variables that moderate memory for and use of counter-stereotypic social-political beliefs that were attributed to a stereotypically identified group. In Expt 1, recall was found to be inversely related to level of inconsistency. In Expt 2, location of counter-stereotypic beliefs within a list and the order of counter-stereotypic beliefs (most-to-least vs. least-to-most inconsistent) determined the form of the relationship between recall and level of inconsistency. When counter-stereotypic beliefs were presented relatively early in a list and were ordered from least-to-most inconsistent, a positive relationship obtained; otherwise, the relationship was negative. Stereotyping was less extreme when counter-stereotypic beliefs were presented early in the least-to-most inconsistent ordering. Cognitive processes that may have produced these sets of findings were discussed.
Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is less expensive than open Belsey Mark IV.

Laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication is a relatively new technique used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The purpose of this study was to compare the cost to the patient and insurer of a laparoscopic Nissen fundoplication (LN) to an open Belsey Mark IV (B4), the previous standard operation for GERD at Emory University Hospital.