cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Effects of weak spatiotemporal noise on a bistable one-dimensional system

We treat analytically a model that captures several features of the phenomenon of spatially inhomogeneous reversal of an order parameter. The model is a classical Ginzburg-Landau field theory restricted to a bounded one-dimensional spatial domain, perturbed by weak spatiotemporal noise having a flat power spectrum in time and space. Our analysis extends the Kramers theory of noise-induced transitions to the case when the system acted on by the noise has nonzero spatial extent, and the noise itself is spatially dependent. By extending the Langer-Coleman theory of the noise-induced decay of a metastable state, we determine the dependence of the activation barrier and the Kramers reversal rate prefactor on the size of the spatial domain. As this is increased from zero and passes through a certain critical value, a transition between activation regimes occurs, at which the rate prefactor diverges. Beyond the transition, reversal preferentially takes place in a spatially inhomogeneous rather than in a homogeneous way. Transitions of this sort were not discovered by Langer or Coleman, since they treated only the infinite-volume limit. Our analysis uses higher ranscendental functions to handle the case of finite volume. Similar transitions between activation regimes should occur in other models of metastable systems with nonzero spatial extent, perturbed by weak noise, as the size of the spatial domain is varied.
In vitro propagation of prairie gentian

Explants of shoot tips, internodal stem sections, and leaf segments of Lisianthus, Eustoma grandiflorum (Griseb.) Schinners, ‘Dwarf Purple’ were cultured in vitro on modified Murashige and Skoog (MS) media. Explants of shoot tips and internodal stem sections developed into multiple shoots, whereas, leaf segments turned chlorotic on a medium supplemented with 3 mgl-1 benzyladenine (BA) and 0.2 mgl-1 naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). Shoot proliferation was obtained on shoot tips and leaf segments with 3 mgl-1 BA, but internodal stem sections became necrotic and died on this medium. Rooting was induced in cultures with multiple shoots by subculturing explants on a half-strength MS medium supplemented with 2 mgl-1 indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Rooted plantlets were successfully transferred to soil.
Optimum update for motion-compensated lifting

In wavelet video coding with motion-compensated lifting, the update step typically reverses the motion vectors from the prediction step. Where motion compensation is not invertible, heuristic rules are used for the update step. This paper derives a closed-form expression for the optimal update step for a given general linear prediction step and applies the result to motion-compensated wavelet coding. The analysis justifies using reversed motion vectors, where possible, and yields new results on proper inversion of subpixel motion compensation and optimal treatment of motion discontinuities. A new sparse matrix technique is presented that allows the practical implementation of the optimal update step for motion-compensated wavelet video coding. Experimental results confirm that optimizing the update step improves the rate-distortion performance for a motion-compensated wavelet video coder and provide justification for heuristics used in conventional techniques.
SLC: a visual cohesion metric to predict the usability of graphical user interfaces

User interfaces are evaluated through techniques that require end-users and usability experts. These techniques are costly and time consuming. Therefore, quantitative techniques such as predictive metrics can be considered an indispensable alternative to address some of user interface issues. One of these metrics is a visual cohesion metric. In order to investigate the effectiveness of visual cohesion metrics as an indicator of the usability of a user interface during the early stages of user interface development, this paper introduces the Screen Layout Cohesion (SLC) metric, which is based on aesthetic, structural, and semantic aspects of GUIs. The SLC can be used to predict the usability of user interfaces in early stages of software development. This metric is supported by a complementary tool called GUIExaminer, which provides automatic calculation of the SLC metric. Our findings provide an empirical validation of the SLC for a set of user interfaces. We found that the prediction of user interface usability with the help of the SLC matches 89.7% of the results based on the participants' evaluation of the same user interfaces.
Structural Adjustment, Primary Resource Trade and Sustainable Development in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract The food shortages, growing indebtedness and the appalling environmental crisis in sub-Saharan Africa cannot be understood in isolation from the strategies of development policies in the area of African governments have followed since independence. While adjustment policies in the area of pricing, exchange rates, public sector reform and liberalization of markets are some of the essential ingredients of a balanced national strategy, conventional International Monetary Fund/ World Bank prescriptions have often resulted in negative social and ecological effects. These short-term policies, designed to improve commodity exports to generate foreign exchange, often conflict with long-term development needs. Scarce land, water, credit and technology are being preempted by the export sector while the needs of small farmers in the areas of soil conservation, reforestation and food security are ignored. For sustainable development to occur, there must be a fundamental reorientation of government policies and resources toward solving rural problems. Land reform, credit, improved extension, greater government accountability, and people's participation are important prerequisites if poor farmers are to succeed. Further, policy reform in sub-Saharan Africa needs to be backed by improved measures to compensate for shortfalls in commodity export earnings caused by factors outside their control. Finally, significant debt write offs by bilateral and multilateral agencies are a sine qua non if sub-Saharan Africa is to resume a steady path of development.
Estimating the Derivative Function and Counterfactuals in Duration Models with Heterogeneity

This paper presents a new estimator for counterfactuals in duration models. The counterfactual in a duration model is the length of the spell in case the regressor would have been different. We introduce the structural duration function, which gives these counterfactuals. The advantage of focusing on counterfactuals is that one does not need to identify the mixed proportional hazard model. In particular, we present examples in which the mixed proportional hazard model is unidentified or has a singular information matrix but our estimator for counterfactuals still converges at rate N 1/2, where N is the number of observations. We apply the structural duration function to simulate important policy effects, including a change in welfare benefits.
Rheological effects in grinding circuits

Abstract The grinding efficiency of circuits using tumbling media mills in closed circuit with hydrocyclone classifiers may be improved by control of the mill slurry rheology. The rheology affects both the rate of fine material production by the grinding mill, and the separation performance of the hydrocyclone. In addition, the manner in which rheology changes are produced will affect hydrocyclone performance. This parameter is neglected in process control situations due to the difficulty of making rheological measurements of dense slurries on-line. In recent years, a number of new viscometers has been developed which may be useful for this purpose.
Using a school-based approach to deliver immunization—Global update

Vaccines, such as HPV vaccine, are increasingly administered to school-age children, and school-based immunization is an approach that can be used to reach these children. Limited information has thus far been published that provides an overview of the school-based approach worldwide. This article, based on self-reported data from countries, summarizes the extent to which a school-based immunization approach is used around the world, and what antigens are most frequently being administered. Of the 174 countries for which data on school-based immunization were available, ninety five countries reported using a school-based approach for immunization. Children in grades 1 and 6 (or at an age corresponding with these grades) are most often targeted, and tetanus and diphtheria toxoids are the most frequently administered antigens. The impact of the school-based approach may be reduced in areas with low school attendance, unless specific measures are taken to target out-of-school children. Methods to monitor coverage need to be standardized and data on coverage and on the reach of the approach need to be more systematically analyzed and reported.
A procedure for the rapid lysis of mammalian cells prior to alkaline sucrose density gradient centrifugation.

Abstract Relatively long exposures to alkaline conditions are required to effect lysis and DNA strand separation in some cell lines prior to alkaline sucrose gradient centrifugation. We describe here a simple technique utilizing sodium lauroyl sarcosine and heparin which permits a reduction in alkaline lytic storage time of from 5–6 h to 45 min for Chinese hamster cells layered onto a gradient.
Short-Time, Biaxial Creep of an Aluminum Alloy With Abrupt Changes of Temperature and State of Stress

Abstract : Short-time, biaxial creep experiments of an aluminum alloy are described which involved abrupt changes in temperature and state of stress. Results are discussed in terms of a creep surface concept similar to the yield surface concept of time-independent plasticity. Evidence that the creep surface changes size, shape, and location in response to creep strain is discussed. The contribution of metallurgical and viscoelastic effects to the complexity of the mechanical behavior are also discussed. (Author)
Response of a two degrees of freedom articulated tower to different environmental conditions

In a previous paper [J. Sound Vibr. (1996)], the response of an articulated tower in the ocean subjected to deterministic and random wave loading was investigated. The tower was modeled as an upright rigid pendulum with a concentrated mass at the top and having one angular degree of freedom about a hinge with coulomb damping. In this paper, which is an extension of the previous one, the tower is modeled as a spherical pendulum having two angular degrees of freedom. The tower is subjected to wave, current, vortex shedding, wind and Coriolis acceleration loads. Geometrical non-linearities as well as non-linearities due to wave drag force, which is assumed to be proportional to the square of the relative velocity between the tower and the waves, were considered. The governing coupled differential equations of motion are highly non-linear, and have time-dependent coefficients. The tower's response to the external forces is found, that is, equilibrium position due to wind and current and response to wave excitation. Resonances (harmonic and subharmonic) and also chaotic response are investigated.
All you need is a potato: The culinary performances of Grushenka Abramova

Yomin u-smoyl, vi shayn in vi voyl, az “yomin u-smoyl tifroytse” A shtikele fludn fin kel-udn iz indzer grester moytse Left and right, how beautiful and how pleasant, that “left and right you shall...
The paleoredox setting of Burgess Shale-type deposits

Abstract Burgess Shale-type (BST) biotas occur globally in Lower and Middle Cambrian shales, and were preserved under specific and exceptional circumstances. Among the circumstances surrounding fossilization, benthic redox conditions have been the subject of particular disagreement. While most authors have assumed that the sites of preservation were anoxic and therefore inhospitable to metazoans, several have recently argued that BST assemblages were preserved in situ under habitable benthic conditions. Here, we use field and laboratory intensive, fine-scale methods to investigate the paleoredox settings of fossil assemblages in two Burgess Shale-type deposits, the Wheeler and Marjum Formations of western Utah (Cambrian Series 3), and review recently published data for other principal Burgess Shale-type deposits. In the Wheeler and Marjum Formations, fossil assemblages and ichnofabrics were evaluated at the millimeter scale. An ichnological model was then applied to reconstruct relative paleo-oxygen content of bottom waters at a bed-to-bed scale through multiple intervals sampled continuously. This approach permits fine-scale evaluation of the relationships of discrete fossil assemblages to paleoredox conditions. Over 7800 individual beds were logged in this study. These data demonstrate that the Wheeler and Marjum Formations were deposited under dynamic benthic redox conditions. In both deposits, beds representing deposition under dysoxic conditions may be interbedded at the millimeter–centimeter scale with those representing deposition under anoxic conditions. Although the beds deposited under both types of redox conditions may be richly fossiliferous, the distribution of fossil assemblages within the Wheeler and Marjum Formations was regulated by dissolved oxygen content of bottom waters as a first-order control. BST preservation occurs within a microfacies inferred to represent deposition under anoxic conditions, and contains transported fossils along a recognizable proximal–distal gradient. Under dysoxic benthic conditions, assemblages of skeletonized body fossils dominated by trilobites occur in both formations. In the Wheeler Formation, the junction of these two benthic redox environments is characterized by dense monospecific associations of the opportunistic trilobite Elrathia kingii , but a comparable exaerobic taxon does not appear to be present in the Marjum Formation. These results demonstrate the control of near-bottom anoxia over preservation of BST assemblages in both formations and are consistent with the findings from the Burgess Shale and the Chengjiang.
Lateral rectus posterior fixation suture

Background Some authors have suggested that a posterior fixation suture on the lateral rectus muscle is ineffective because of the muscle's long arc of contact with the globe. We report a small case series of patients successfully treated using a lateral rectus posterior fixation suture. Methods The surgical database of one surgeon (JMH) was reviewed for all patients undergoing lateral rectus posterior fixation surgery for mechanical or paretic strabismus. In all cases, the lateral rectus muscle was disinserted from the sclera, and a Mersilene posterior fixation suture was placed 17 mm to 19 mm back from the insertion. The lateral rectus muscle was simultaneously recessed in all cases using a novel approach to allow adjustment of the recession if needed while maintaining the posterior fixation suture. Outcome was assessed at least 1 year after surgery. Results Three patients were identified. Adduction deficit of the affected eye was caused by previous sinus surgery in 2 cases and scleral buckle surgery in 1 case. The lateral rectus muscle posterior fixation suture on the unaffected eye induced the planned matching −1 limitation of abduction, with resulting improvement in incomitance of the exotropia and reduced angle of exodeviation on prism cover testing. Conclusions In this case series, a lateral rectus muscle posterior fixation suture was useful in addressing incomitant exodeviations. It is unknown whether this technique is superior to alternative surgical approaches.
An evaluation of Poisson-Boltzmann electrostatic free energy calculations through comparison with experimental mutagenesis data.

For systems involving highly and oppositely charged proteins, electrostatic forces dominate association and contribute to biomolecular complex stability. Using experimental or theoretical alanine-scanning mutagenesis, it is possible to elucidate the contribution of individual ionizable amino acids to protein association. We evaluated our electrostatic free energy calculations by comparing calculated and experimental data for alanine mutants of five protein complexes. We calculated Poisson–Boltzmann electrostatic free energies based on a thermodynamic cycle, which incorporates association in a reference (Coulombic) and solvated (solution) state, as well as solvation effects. We observe that Coulombic and solvation free energy values correlate with experimental data in highly and oppositely charged systems, but not in systems comprised of similarly charged proteins. We also observe that correlation between solution and experimental free energies is dependent on dielectric coefficient selection for the protein interior. Free energy correlations improve as protein dielectric coefficient increases, suggesting that the protein interior experiences moderate dielectric screening, despite being shielded from solvent. We propose that higher dielectric coefficients may be necessary to more accurately predict protein–protein association. Additionally, our data suggest that Coulombic potential calculations alone may be sufficient to predict relative binding of protein mutants. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 95: 746-754, 2011.
N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor plasticity in kindling: quantitative and qualitative alterations in the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-channel complex

Abstract Kindling is an animal model of epilepsy and neuronal plasticity produced by periodic electrical stimulation of the brain. Electrophysiologic studies indicate that this phenomenon is associated with increased participation of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in excitatory synaptic transmission. Biochemical studies suggest that a change intrinsic to the NMDA receptor-channel complex may contribute to the increase in NMDA receptor-mediated synaptic transmission. We tested this idea by measuring the binding of 3-[(+)-2-(carboxypiperazin-4-yl)][1,2-3H]propyl-1-phosphonic acid ([3H]CPP), [3H]glycine, and tritiated N-[(1-thienyl)cyclohexyl]piperidine [( 3H]TCP) to rat hippocampal membranes. In this preparation these ligands are selective for the NMDA receptor, the strychnine-insensitive glycine receptor, and the NMDA receptor-gated ion channel, respectively. Kindling increased the density of CPP, glycine, and TCP binding sites in hippocampal membranes by 47%, 42%, and 25%, respectively. No significant changes were detected in the affinity of these binding sites. Surprisingly, alterations in the glycine binding site were detected in animals sacrificed 1 month but not 1 day after the final kindling stimulation. Thus, delayed upregulation of the NMDA receptor-channel complex may be one molecular mechanism that maintains the long-lasting hyperexcitability of hippocampal neurons in kindled animals.
Towards an Ethical Dimension of Decision Making in Organizations

There is a growing need to increase our understanding of ethical decision making in U.S. based organizations. The authors examine the complexity of creating uniform ethical standards even when the meaning of ethical behavior is being debated. The nature of these controversies are considered, and three important dimensions for ethical decision making are discussed: leaders with integrity and a strong sense of social responsibility, organization cultures that foster dialogue and dissent, and organizations that are willing to reflect on and learn from their actions. Leaders with integrity demonstrate consistency between vision and action that promotes trust, regularly concern themselves with developing moral standards, and are proactive agents of change in an increasingly complex world. Organizational cultures that support dialogue suspend judgments and increase their capacity to think together towards new levels of understanding. Ethical concepts evolve in these organizational cultures, and actions are informed and responsible. Organizations that reflect on their actions engage in “double loop learning” so that the time taken to reflect on the past and present leads to a more judicious and ethical future. In essence, the authors point to organizational guidelines for ethical decision making that lead to an increase in members' capacity to think and act ethically.
Mobile Learning in Teacher Education: Insight From Four Programs That Embraced Change

AbstractAccess to and use of mobile technologies are growing exponentially. The authors of this study identified four schools of education in the United States that self-identified as having a fully implemented curriculum for teachers on mobile technology use in PK–12 classrooms. In-depth interviews were conducted with a representative from each institution in order to determine the factors that influenced their ability to change their educational technology curriculum to include teaching about mobile devices. The interviews revealed that an institutional commitment to innovation, a belief in the importance of being on the cutting edge, and expectations from local school districts were important motivators for change. Leadership and vision, institutional and administrative support, and the expectation that all faculty members participate in the implementation of the curriculum were important internal characteristics for success. Finally, increasing faculty knowledge about mobile technologies, funding, and...
Is contact activation of the coagulation system involved in the genesis of the first-use syndrome?

: A number of mechanisms have been thought to be involved in the pathogenesis of the first-use syndrome. These include IgE antibody-mediated response to ethylene oxide-related antigens, membrane activation of the alternative complement pathway, activation of tissue mast cells and basophils by materials released from the dialyzer into the circulation, and transfer of bacterial products through high flux dialyzer. However, the possible role of the activation of blood coagulation system and platelets during dialysis has not been considered. The present communication reviews the theoretical basis for a possible connection between dialysis-induced activation of platelets and coagulation system with the first-use syndrome. Although the available data concerning the activation of intrinsic coagulation pathway during dialysis are conflicting, there is no controversy as to the occurrence of platelet activation. It is suggested that biochemical events triggered by activation of these systems may in part contribute to the genesis of first-use syndrome.
457 BLOOD GLUCOSE IN RELATION TO VARIOUS CLINICAL CONDITIONS, PLASMA INSULIN, GLUCAGON AND GROWTH HORMONE IN PREMATURE INFANTS

457 BLOOD GLUCOSE IN RELATION TO VARIOUS CLINICAL CONDITIONS, PLASMA INSULIN, GLUCAGON AND GROWTH HORMONE IN PREMATURE INFANTS
Intracellular signaling mechanisms mediating the antiproliferative and apoptotic effects of γ-tocotrienol in neoplastic mammary epithelial cells

Tocotrienols, a subgroup within the vitamin E family of compounds, display potent antiproliferative and apoptotic activity against neoplastic mammary epithelial cells at treatment doses that have little or no effect on normal cell growth and function. Recent studies have shown that treatment with a growth inhibitory, but non-cytotoxic dose (4 μM) of γ -tocotrienol inhibits phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase-dependent kinase (PI3K)/PI3K-dependent kinase 1 (PDK-1)/mitogenic signaling over a 2–3 day period following treatment exposure, and these effects were not found to be associated with an increased in either phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted from chromosome 10 (PTEN) or protein phosphatase type 2A (PP2A) phosphatase activity. In addition, this treatment caused a large decrease in NFκB transcriptional activity, apparently by suppressing IκB-kinase (IKK)-α/βα/β activation, an enzyme associated with inducing NFκB activation. Since Akt and NFκB are intimately involved in mammary tumor cell proliferation and survival, these findings strongly suggest that the antiproliferative effects of γ-tocotrienol result, at least in part, from a reduction in Akt and NFκB activity. In contrast, treatment with 20 μM γ-tocotrienol (cytotoxic dose) resulted in caspase-8 and -3 activation and apoptosis. It was also shown that this same treatment caused a rapid and large decrease in PI3K/PDK/Akt signaling within 2–4 h following treatment exposure, and a corresponding decrease in intracellular levels of FLIP, an antiapoptotic protein that inhibits caspase-8 activation. In summary, both the antiproliferative and apoptotic effects of γ-tocotrienol appear to be mediated by a reduction in the PI3K/PDK-1/Akt signaling, an important pathway associated with cell proliferation and survival in neoplastic mammary epithelial cells.
Intraindividual propofol dosage variability in children undergoing repetitive procedural sedations.

The authors prospectively assessed intraindividual variability in propofol dosage for induction of sedation in repetitive procedures in children with malignancies. A total of 80 procedures were performed in 24 children. Primary outcome measure was the intraindividual propofol dose required to achieve adequate sedation. Intraindividual variability in propofol dosage required to achieve adequate sedation was 0.0–2.2 mg·kg−1. Twenty-five percent of the patients had a dose range of 0.0–0.5 mg·kg−1; 37.5%, >0.5–1.0 mg·kg−1; and 37.5% >1.0–2.2 mg·kg−1. Due to remarkable intraindividual differences, propofol dosage should be titrated toward the desired level of sedation.
TRANSMISSION OF EHRLICHIA CHAFFEENSIS FROM LONE STAR TICKS (AMBLYOMMA AMERICANUM ) TO WHITE-TAILED DEER (ODOCOILEUS VIRGINIANUS)

Amblyomma americanum is an aggressive ixodid tick that has been implicated as a vector for several bacterial agents. Among these is Ehrlichia chaffeensis, which causes human monocytic (or monocytotropic) ehrlichiosis. In this study, experimental tick transmission of E. chaffeensis from infected lone star ticks to deer was revisited, and the question of whether it would be possible to re-isolate the organism from deer was asked, because this had not been done previously. Here, we were able to transmit a wild strain of E. chaffeensis from acquisition-fed lone star ticks to white-tailed deer. Ehrlichia chaffeensis was re-isolated from one white-tailed deer on multiple days during the infection and from another deer on one day during the infection. Peak rickettsemias for E. chaffeensis-infected deer were 17 DPI with acquisition-fed ticks and 14 DPI with needle-inoculated deer. This study supports the role of the lone star tick and white-tailed deer as vector and reservoir host for E. chaffeensis, demonstrating culture re-isolation of E. chaffeensis in deer infected by experimental tick transmission for the first time.
Genetic control of autoimmunity to acetylcholine receptors: role of Ia molecules.

Evidence that human susceptibility to myasthenia gravis (MG) might be determined genetically is suggested by clinical surveys showing an association of MG with an increased frequency of certain histocompatibility antigens. We have studied the experimental autoimmune model of MG in mice to investigate whether or not major histocompatibility complex (MHC) gene products play a role in determining susceptibility to EAMG. When MHC congenic and recombinant strains of mice were inoculated with Torpedo acetylcholine receptor (AChR) and adjuvants, the magnitude of autoantibody responses to muscle AChR and of the defect of neuromuscular transmission (i.e., reduction in MEPP amplitude) closely paralleled in vitro lymphocyte proliferative responses to torpedo AChR. Reduction in MEPP amplitude correlated strikingly with the degree to which autologous muscle AChR was complexed with antibody. Lymphocyte responses to Torpedo AChR, antibody responses to mouse muscle AChR, and susceptibility to EAMG are controlled by gene(s) at the I-A subregion of the H-2 complex. Backcross studies confirmed that lymphocyte proliferative responses to AChR are controlled by a Mendelian dominant gene linked to H-2, probably at the I-A subregion. Mutation at the I-A subregion in the B6 strain, which resulted in structural alteration of the Ia molecule, converted high responsiveness to low responsiveness. Lymphocyte responses were eliminated by blocking Ia antigens on lymph node cell surfaces with specific anti-I-A alloantisera. Cellular immune responses to AChR are dependent on Lyt 1+23- cells and adherent cells. These data implicate a macrophage-associated Ia molecular in induction of autoimmune responses to AChR, probably in the presentation of AChR to helper (Lyt 1+23-) T-lymphocytes, which thereby help B-lymphocytes to differentiate into anti-AChR antibody forming cells.
OMVPE growth and characterization of Bi-containing III–V alloys

Abstract For potential infrared detector applications, single crystalline InAsBi and InAsSbBi have been grown by atmospheric pressure OMVPE. Good quality epilayers with smooth surface morphologies were obtained by properly controlling the key growth parameter, the V/III ratio. The variation of lattice constant with solid composition for the InAs1−xBix system, a = 6.058 + 0.966s, provides evidence that Bi atoms incorporate substitutionally into the group V sublattice in the InAs zincblende structure. An extrapolated lattice parameter for the hypothetical zincblende InBi is 7.024A. Thermodynamic calculations using the delta-lattice-parameter model predict that tremendously large miscibility gaps exist in the alloy system. Nevertheless, metastable InAsBi and InAsSbBi alloys were grown with concentrations far exceeding the solubility limit. For example 4.0 at% Bi was incorporated into InAs. Infrared photoluminescence measurements show a decrease of peak energy with increasing Bi concentration in the alloys, with dEg/dx=-55 meV/at% Bi. A study of the transmission spectra of these Bi-containing alloys confirms the above result.
A sagittally focusing double-multilayer monochromator for ultrafast X-ray imaging applications.

The development of a sagittally focusing double-multilayer monochromator is reported, which produces a spatially extended wide-bandpass X-ray beam from an intense synchrotron bending-magnet source at the Advanced Photon Source, for ultrafast X-ray radiography and tomography applications. This monochromator consists of two W/B4C multilayers with a 25 {angstrom} period coated on Si single-crystal substrates. The second multilayer is mounted on a sagittally focusing bender, which can dynamically change the bending radius of the multilayer in order to condense and focus the beam to various points along the beamline. With this new apparatus, it becomes possible to adjust the X-ray beam size to best match the area detector size and the object size to facilitate more efficient data collection using ultrafast X-ray radiography and tomography.
Small business lending and the changing structure of the banking industry

Abstract This study investigates the relationship between bank lending to small businesses, banking company size and complexity, and bank consolidation. We consider two potential influences on small business lending associated with changes in the size distribution of the banking sector. On the one hand, organizational diseconomies may increase the costs of small business lending as the size and complexity of the banking company increases. On the other, size-related diversification may enhance lending to small businesses. We find first that small business loans per dollar of asset rises, then falls, with banking company size, while the level of small business lending rises monotonically with size. Second, consolidation among small banking companies serves to increase bank lending to small businesses, while other types of mergers or acquisitions have little effect. We interpret these findings as consistent with the diversification hypothesis.
Scanning Electrochemical Microscopy. 45. Study of the Kinetics of Oxygen Reduction on Platinum with Potential Programming of the Tip

Scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) was used to study the kinetics of oxygen reduction on platinum in alkaline media. Oxygen was generated at a gold tip by oxidation of OH- and reduced at a Pt substrate. The formation of anodic film on the surface of the gold tip caused instability in tip behavior. This problem was overcome by applying a potential program at the tip to obtain the stable steady state tip current that is important for quantitative SECM analysis. The Tafel slope (125 mV, corresponding to a transfer coefficient, α, of 0.47) and the rate constant for oxygen reduction obtained by fitting the approach curves (2 × 10-3 cm s-1 at the open circuit potential) agree with previous results obtained by the rotating ring disk electrode technique and other electrochemical methods.
Large-amplitude collective motion in the Lipkin model

It is shown how a simple reinterpretation of the ''transition-operator boson method'' eliminates the difficulty noted by Okubo. The revised method is applied to the problem of anharmonic motion in the Lipkin model. The occurrence of a non-positive-definite mass parameter, as obtained by Holzwarth and by Giraud and Grammaticos, is then exposed as the easily avoidable consequence of an inauspicious choice of collective coordinate. (AIP)
A dual Ge(Li)-dual NaI(Tl) gamma-ray spectrometer

Abstract A gamma-ray spectrometer consisting of a pair of high-efficiency Ge(Li) detectors mounted inside a large, split annulus of NaI(Tl) has been assembled. A 16k, 18 bit digital computer has been interfaced for data acquisition. Various coincidence and anticoincidence data accumulation modes have been evaluated for use in radiochemical analysis.
Point-to-Area Rescaling of Probabilistic Quantitative Precipitation Forecasts

Abstract A probabilistic quantitative precipitation forecast (PQPF) is prepared judgmentally by a meteorologist based on a guidance PQPF. The predictand of a judgmental PQPF is the spatially averaged precipitation amount. The predictand of a guidance PQPF produced by a statistical model is the point precipitation amount. Therefore, a procedure is needed for point-to-area rescaling of the PQPF. Theoretically based equations for rescaling are presented. The equations incorporate two predictive parameters, which characterize the precipitation field being forecast: the quotient of the area covered by a precipitation cell to the area of averaging (cell/area quotient), and the degree of certainty about the precipitation pattern (pattern certainty factor). Both parameters can be judgmentally quantified by the meteorologist during PQPF preparation. The same parameters can be entered into an inverse procedure for area-to-point rescaling of the judgmental PQPF.
Molecular characterization of Trypanosoma (Megatrypanum) spp. infecting cattle (Bos taurus), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), and elk (Cervus elaphus canadensis) in the United States

In the United States, the generally non-pathogenic trypanosome of cattle is designated Trypanosoma (Megatrypanum) theileri and is distinguished morphologically from Trypanosoma (M.) cervi, a trypanosome originally described in mule deer and elk. Phylogenetic studies of the Megatrypanum trypanosomes using various molecular markers reveal two lineages, designated TthI and TthII, with several genotypes within each. However, to date there is very limited genetic data for T. theileri, and none for the Megatrypanum trypanosomes found in wild ungulates, in the U.S. In this study U.S. isolates from cattle (Bos taurus), white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) (WTD), and elk (Cervus elaphus canadensis) were compared by ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequence analysis and their incidence in cattle and WTD in south Texas counties was investigated. Phylogenetic analyses showed clear separation of the bovine and cervine trypanosomes. Both lineages I and II were represented in the U.S. cattle and WTD parasites. Lineage I cattle isolates were of a previously described genotype, whereas WTD and elk isolates were of two new genotypes distinct from the cattle trypanosomes. The cattle isolate of lineage II was of a previously reported genotype and was divergent from the WTD isolate, which was of a new genotype. In La Salle, Starr, Webb, and Zapata counties in south Texas a total of 51.8% of white-tailed deer were positive for trypanosomes by 18S rDNA PCR. Of the cattle screened in Webb County, 35.4% were positive. Drought conditions prevailing in south Texas when the animals were screened suggest the possibility of a vector for Trypanosoma other than the ked (Lipoptena mazamae) and tabanid flies (Tabanus spp. and Haematopota spp.).
Lessons from three years of hyperspectral data from the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) on the EOS AQUA

This paper uses comparisons of AIRS measured radiances with other sources to evaluate AIRS performance.
Relation between left ventricular shape and exercise capacity in patients with left ventricular dysfunction

Objectives. The aim of this study was to identify dynamic predictors of exercise duration in patients with systolic left ventricular dysfunction and to test the hypothesis that left ventricular shape is an independent determinant of exercise duration in these patients. Background. Measurements of left ventricular volumes and ejection fraction at rest do not predict exercise capacity in patients with systolic left ventricular dysfunction. Left ventricular shape at rest has been reported to be an independent determinant of exercise duration in these patients. The significance of alterations in left ventricular shape that occur during dynamic exercise has not been investigated. Methods. Twenty-one patients with a documented ejection fraction <40% performed symptom-limited graded upright bicycle exercise with simultaneous quantitative two-dimensional echocardiography. End-diastolic volume, end-systolic volume, stroke volume, ejection fraction and sphericity index were measured at rest and peak exercise. Results. Eleven patients exercised beyond stage II (6 min, 50 W), averaging 8.9 ± 1.9 min; 10 patients were unable to complete stage II, averaging 4.9 ± 0.9 min. No patient developed clinical evidence of ischemia during the exercise period. Of the echocardiographic variables considered, only end-systolic and end-diastolic sphericity indexes at peak exercise (r = 0.809 and 0.711, respectively) and the change in end-systolic sphericity index during exercise (r = 0.697) were strongly correlated with exercise duration. Conclusions. Conventional descriptors of left ventricular function are poor predictors of exercise capacity. Dynamic changes in heart shape correlate strongly with exercise duration and may be important determinants of exercise capacity in patients with systolic left ventricular dysfunction.
Understanding and Predicting Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) Adoption in Supply Chains

As an emerging and a promising technology for supply chain management, radio frequency identification (RFID) has generated a significant amount of interest from both practitioners and researchers in recent years. However, the factors important for RFID's adoption in supply chains have not been well understood. Many organizations are reluctant to participate in supply-chain level RFID projects because of this lack of understanding. Drawing on innovation diffusion theory and technology-organization-environment framework, we developed a conceptual model for RFID adoption in supply chains. Survey data were collected worldwide and included different players in supply chains, such as manufacturers, transporters, wholesalers, and retailers. Our analysis based on logistic regression demonstrated that technology complexity, technology maturity, top management support, trading partner power, and trading partner readiness were significant predictors for RFID adoption in supply chain activities. This study is the fir...
PCR detection of two RFLPs in exon I of the alpha-L-iduronidase (IDUA) gene.

Two polymorphisms were detected within exon I of the a-l-iduronidase (IDUA) gene both of which create restriction endonuclease sites and one of which changes an amino acid. The polymorphisms may be detected by digesting the same 245-bp polymerase chain reaction product. The polymorphisms can be used diagnostically in families with IDUA deficiency (mucopolysaccharidosis type I) and Huntington disease, which is closely linked to the IDUA locus.
The vertical movement of adult western corn rootworms (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera) relative to the transport of momentum and heat

Abstract The movement of adult western corn rootworms (WCR) ( Diabrotica virgifera virgifera ) into and out of a corn canopy was related to the microclimate above the canopy with consideration of the transport of momentum and heat as well as the radiant energy load. The study was conducted for two 3-day periods in July and August of 1987 in Tippecanoe Co., Indiana. Results indicate a difference in flight activity between the sexes. The upward movement out of the canopy of both male and female WCR occurred during period of low winds and towards canopy sensible heat flux under primarily stable conditions. Downward movement into the canopy of WCR did not tend to correspond to above-canopy wind speed, radiant energy load, sensible heat, or momentum flux.
The Limits of State Autonomy: The Medical Cooperatives of the Farm Security Administration, 1935–1946

Under the ominous title “Rehearsal for State Medicine,” the 17 December 1938 issue of the Saturday Evening Post told its readers about a new health program sponsored by the Farm Security Administration (FSA), a New Deal agency that provided low-interest “rehabilitation loans” to low-income farmers. As an outgrowth of the loan program, the FSA had established cooperative health plans that, for a small annual fee, allowed FSA clients to receive affordable health care. But according to the article's co-authors—Samuel Lubell and Walter Everett—there was much more to the FSA health pro-gram. “What the FSA is doing,” Lubell and Everett claimed, “affords a rare glimpse into what the future might bring.” Their article appeared in the midst of a national debate over health care reform and only months after President Franklin Roosevelt had convened hundreds of doctors, social workers, and public health reformers for a National Health Conference. Charged with the task of making recommendations for a national health program, the conference produced a final report that suggested a range of public policies that might make health care more affordable and accessible. Most controversially, the final report called upon lawmakers to consider creating a program of government-sponsored health insurance. “Though Congress and the nation are debating the prickly issue of state medicine,” Lubell and Everett noted with obvious disapproval, “one Federal agency [the FSA] has jumped the legislative gun and initiated its own program of socialized medicine.” Although they would have rejected the term “socialized medicine,” the architects of the FSA health plans had indeed envisioned a “rehearsal” of sorts.
Infants and Toddlers in Foster Care

Young children involved in the child welfare system are susceptible to behavioral and physiological dysregulation. These children need nurturing care to develop organized attachments to caregivers; they need synchronous care to support their physiological and behavioral regulation; and they need stable caregivers who can commit to them, supporting their sense of self and behavioral regulation. Without intervention at the level of the parent and the system, most children involved with the child welfare system are unlikely to have these needs met. We present two models of intervention designed to enhance parents' synchrony and nurturance, and highlight aspects of the system that can enhance the stability and commitment of caregivers.
Histone deacetylase inhibition: a novel approach to cancer treatment

Lymphomas are a diverse group of malignant disorders that include non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and Hodgkin lymphoma. Collectively, lymphomas represent the fifth most common cancer type and the fifth leading cause of cancer death in the US. In 2006, the American Cancer Society estimates that more than 66 000 individuals in the US will be diagnosed with lymphoma, the majority of which (88%) will be classified as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Although enormous progress in cancer biology has been made over the past few decades, resulting in an overall decrease in the frequency of most cancers, the incidence of lymphomas continues to increase unabated. Clearly, an urgent need exists for newer and more effective treatments for these diseases. Far too many years have been spent combining existing cytotoxic drugs with only limited success.
Identifying with Fantasy Animal Characters: A Comparison of Hearing and Hearing-Impaired Students

Although animal characters play an important role in children's literature, little research has assessed how children relate to these characters. The present study, by measuring same-sex associations, examined whether deaf and hearing students could personally identify with neutrally presented animal characters and whether the patterns would be similar or different for female and male students. The results indicated that hearing students made more masculine associations than did hearing-impaired students and that males had more masculine scores than did females. Differential incorporation of cultural and language bias, use of self-referents, and educational implications are discussed.
Identifying Differentially Expressed Genes in Time Course Microarray Data

Identifying differentially expressed (DE) genes across conditions or treatments is a typical problem in microarray experiments. In time course microarray experiments (under two or more conditions/treatments), it is sometimes of interest to identify two classes of DE genes: those with no time-condition interactions (called parallel DE genes, or PDE), and those with time-condition interactions (nonparallel DE genes, NPDE). Although many methods have been proposed for identifying DE genes in time course experiments, methods for discerning NPDE genes from the general DE genes are still lacking. We propose a functional ANOVA mixed-effect model to model time course gene expression observations. The fixed effect of (the mean curve) of the model decomposes bivariate functions of time and treatments (or experimental conditions) as in the classic ANOVA method and provides the associated notions of main effects and interactions. Random effects capture time-dependent correlation structures. In this model, identifying NPDE genes is equivalent to testing the significance of the time-condition interaction, for which an approximate F-test is suggested. We examined the performance of the proposed method on simulated datasets in comparison with some existing methods, and applied the method to a study of human reaction to the endotoxin stimulation, as well as to a cell cycle expression data set.
Politics of Translation

Current research finds the label “translation” an apt characterization of diverse communicative practices. This review argues that the term points to a whole family of semiotic processes. Writings on translation share a key insight: Different social worlds—including those of scholars—emerge through forms of communication in which practices, objects, genres, and texts are citable, recontextualizable. This generative process mediates among the domains of knowledge and action that the communications themselves play a role in separating. The connections and differentiations, as framed by metadiscourses, construct relations of power and politics. I seek to highlight a widening, productive conversation about translational practices among studies of science, in medical, legal, and linguistic anthropology, in research on Christianities, and in advocacy. The translation rubric gathers together practices of transduction, (in)commensuration, circulation, enactment of reference, standardizations, and various forms of...