cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Melting line of aluminum from simulations of coexisting phases.

We have performed simulations of coexisting liquid and solid phases of aluminum as an efficient way of mapping out the coexistence line. This technique is convenient, as it does not require complicated free-energy calculations for the different phases, but simply allows the system to equilibrate to a co-existence point. By altering the simulation volume and/or energy, a new coexistence point is found. The calculated method temperature is lower than previous results for the identical model; we suspect that this difference is due to the difficulty of calculating the free energy of the liquid phase, leading to inaccuracies in the previous work. A thorough examination of several different system sizes, from 1024 to 65 536 particles, indicates that the results are only weakly dependent upon the system size.
Legislating From the State Bench A Comparative Analysis of Judicial Activism

This article considers the institutional and environmental factors that influence the degree of countermajoritarian judicial activism among state supreme courts. In our analysis, we consider two in...
SPARC: encouraging new models of disseminating knowledge

Presents an outline of the organization, SPARC – Scholarly Publishing and Academic Resources Coalition – which represents a worldwide alliance of libraries and library organizations. Describes how SPARC is developing publishing options to traditional research and scholarly communication while maintaining quality but at more reasonable prices.
Pharmacokinetics, outcome of treatment, and toxic effects of amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine in neonates.

To determine the pharmacokinetics of amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine in neonates, we measured serum concentrations at first dose and after 5 days of therapy by high-performance liquid chromatography in 13 neonates (mean birth weight 1.2±0.8 kg). The dose of amphotericin B was serially increased from 0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg/day in 10 infants but was decreased from 0.8 to 1.0 to 0.5 mg/kg/day in three infants. Amphotericin B concentrations were not detectable in infants receiving 0.1 mg/kg/day. Amphotericin B cerebrospinal fluid concentrations were 40% to 90% of serum values obtained simultaneously. Serum concentrations after oral administration of 5-fluorocytosine (dose 25 to 100 mg/kg/day) were detectable in all infants. We found extreme interindividual variability for the half-life, volume of distribution, and clearance for both drugs. Four infants had minimal elimination for both drugs between doses, a finding that correlates with rises in serum creatinine (>0.4 mg/dl, 40 μmol/L) and blood urea nitrogen (>10 mg/dl, 3.6 mmol/L). We recommend that the dose of amphotericin B given on the first day of treatment be greater than the usual testing dose of 0.1 mg/kg/day. We also recommend an initial 24-hour dosing interval for amphotericin B and 5-fluorocytosine. Serum drug concentrations may need to be monitored in high-risk, low birth weight infants.
Bridging the Gap from Wikipedia to Scholarly Sources: A Simple Discovery Tool

This article discusses the creation and unique implementation of a browser-based search tool at Stevens Institute of Technology. A oneSearch bookmarklet was created to allow users to execute a search of library resources directly from their Internet browser via a JavaScript book mark applet. The article also provides a brief history of similar discovery tools, as well as a look at recent literature highlighting the importance of convenience and innovation for academic researchers.
Regulation and function of non-AUG-initiated proto-oncogenes

Abstract A small, yet growing, number of cellular eukaryotic mRNAs encoding important regulatory proteins, such as c- myc and other proto-oncogenes, initiate translation from a non-AUG codon, usually in addition to initiating at a downstream AUG. The efficiency of non-AUG initiation on these natural cellular mRNAs varies considerably and appears to be governed by several features, including the codon sequence, the context surrounding the codon and the secondary structure of the transcript. In addition to factors which control the overall efficiency of c- myc non-AUG initiation, the relative efficiency of the upstream non-AUG initiation compared with the AUG initiation changes during the growth of cells. As lymphoid and fibroblast cells approach high densities in culture there is a sustained 5–10-fold induction in the synthesis of the non-AUG-initiated c-Myc 1 protein to levels comparable to or greater than the AUG-initiated c-Myc 2 protein. This increased efficiency of c- myc non-AUG initiation, due to methionine depletion of the growth medium, suggests that the scanning preinitiation complex can be regulated to enhance the recognition of a suboptimal non-AUG codon. The significance of non-AUG initiation for the growth-regulatory genes is illustrated by the different localizations of the int -2, bFGF and hck non-AUG-initiated proteins, the disruption of the c- myc and lyl -1 non-AUG initiation in tumor-derived cell lines, and the distinct biological function of the non-AUG-initiated forms of bFGF.
Antagonism of substance P and perception of breathlessness in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate whether substance P, an excitatory neuropeptide, modulates the perception of breathlessness by administering aprepitant, a selective antagonist that blocks neurokinin (NK)-1 receptor signaling. Individual targeted resistive load breathing (RLB) was used to provoke breathlessness. In Study 1, sixteen patients (age, 70 ± 6 years) with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) reported similar ratings of breathlessness during RLB between oral aprepitant (125 mg) and placebo. After aprepitant, but not with placebo, there were significant increases in blood levels of substance P (+54 ± 39%) and beta-endorphin (+27 ± 17%). A similar design was used in Study 2 except that naloxone (10 mg) was administered intravenously prior to RLB to block any effect of endogenous opioids. Nine patients with COPD reported comparable breathlessness ratings during RLB between aprepitant and placebo. Our results do not support a role for the substance P-NK-1 pathway in the perception of breathlessness in patients with COPD. With selective antagonism of NK-1 signaling, there was co-transmission of substance P and beta-endorphin neuropeptides.
Cell cycle-dependent chromatin loading of the Fanconi anemia core complex by FANCM/FAAP24.

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a genetic disease characterized by congenital abnormalities, bone marrow failure, and cancer susceptibility. A total of 13 FA proteins are involved in regulating genome surveillance and chromosomal stability. The FA core complex, consisting of 8 FA proteins (A/B/C/E/F/G/L/M), is essential for the monoubiquitination of FANCD2 and FANCI. FANCM is a human ortholog of the archaeal DNA repair protein Hef, and it contains a DEAH helicase and a nuclease domain. Here, we examined the effect of FANCM expression on the integrity and localization of the FA core complex. FANCM was exclusively localized to chromatin fractions and underwent cell cycle–dependent phosphorylation and dephosphorylation. FANCM-depleted HeLa cells had an intact FA core complex but were defective in chromatin localization of the complex. Moreover, depletion of the FANCM binding partner, FAAP24, disrupted the chromatin association of FANCM and destabilized FANCM, leading to defective recruitment of the FA core complex to chromatin. Our results suggest that FANCM is an anchor required for recruitment of the FA core complex to chromatin, and that the FANCM/FAAP24 interaction is essential for this chromatin-loading activity. Dysregulated loading of the FA core complex accounts, at least in part, for the characteristic cellular and developmental abnormalities in FA.
Tadalafil Reversal of Sexual Dysfunction Caused by Serotonin Enhancing Medications in Women

Sexual dysfunction is a common side effect of many antidepressants, especially those that increase serotonin. Many strategies have been reported to assist patients in minimizing impairment, with variable degrees of success. One of the newer approaches is to augment with phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors. Our report using the most recently released agent in this class, tadalafil is the first demonstrating potential benefit in women. We report here of three women who derived benefit from using 20 mg of tadalafil before anticipated sexual activity to reverse medication-induced sexual dysfunction. Tadalafil utility was maintained over time and was well tolerated.
COMPOUNDED DIETS FOR EARLY POSTLARVAL PENAEUS CALIFORNIENSIS

A series of two-week experiments were performed to evaluate extruded, compounded diets and to determine the usefulness of single-cell protein sources as replacements for fish meal in diets for Penaeid shrimp. The diets were compounded at two protein levels, 40 and 44%, using conventional feed ingredients with and without linolenic acid. The tests were conducted using early postlarval (16 mg) Penaeus Californiensis in a flow-through system and the prepared diets were compared against brine shrimp nauplii (Artemia salina). Two types of yeast were evaluated, those from n-paraffins (Toprina G) and brewer's yeast (Yeaco-20). In addition, blood meal and soybean oil meal were used to partially replace fish meal in the test diets. When the yeasts were used at 10% of the diet, it was found that the shrimp achieved a larger mean final weight and exhibited better survival than either the Artemia control or the non-yeast diets. Soybean oil meal was satisfactory as a replacement protein, but blood meal appeared to cause a depression in growth at all levels of inclusion. Of the two yeasts, the n-paraffin yeast appears to be the better complement to the other diet ingredients.
Effects of Practice Style in Managing Back Pain

Objective: To assess the effects of a practice style of back pain management consistent with self-care (infrequent prescribing of pain medications and bed rest) on long-term functional outcomes, co...
Structural changes of horse heart ferricytochrome C induced by changes of ionic strength and anion binding.

To test the validity of the notion that changes in ionic strength and ion binding do not cause any major functionally relevant structural changes in cytochrome c, we measured the absorption and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) of horse heart ferricytochrome c for the Soret and 695 nm charge-transfer band as a function of dihydrogen phosphate and sodium acetate concentrations. This band is known to probe the integrity of the functionally pivotal Fe 3+ -M80 linkage. Spectral changes indicate that an ionic strength increase (via an increasing acetate ion concentration) affects only a subset of conformational substates of the Fe-M80 interface, probed by the 695 nm charge-transfer band, without a substantial modification of the heme environment. This result suggests that the substates probed by the 695 nm band differ with respect to their capability to transduce changes of solvent-protein interactions to the active site. The binding of H 2 PO 4 - ions causes more significant structural changes, which give rise to a large increase of the oscillator strength of the 695 nm band. This reflects a strengthening of the Fe-M80 bond in all substates, which probably destabilizes the oxidized state but stabilizes the folded state of the protein. Additional structural variations are likely to involve aromatic side chains, such as F82 and W59, and the hydrogen-bonding network in the heme pocket. In contrast to the current belief that anion binding to the binding domain of the protein for cytochrome c oxidase does not cause any functionally relevant structural changes, our results show that the structural variations that occur in the heme pocket are most likely of functional significance.
Pharmacokinetics of cefotaxime and desacetylcefotaxime in patients with liver disease.

The dispositions of cefotaxime and its metabolite desacetylcefotaxime were investigated in patients with different forms of chronic parenchymal liver disease (CPLD). A total of 31 subjects (27 patients and 4 controls) received a single 2-g dose of cefotaxime by infusion, and serial blood samples were drawn. The area under the concentration-time curve ranged from 176 to 241 micrograms.h/ml, the apparent half-life ranged from 1.49 to 2.42 h, and clearance ranged from 2.06 to 3.10 ml/min/kg in patients with four different forms of CPLD. The area under the concentration-time curve and the apparent half-life of desacetylcefotaxime ranged from 72 to 128 micrograms.h/ml and 7.1 to 13.4 h, respectively. Pharmacokinetic parameters were significantly different in patients with CPLD compared with those in control subjects and were related to clinical indices of hepatic impairment. Modest accumulation of cefotaxime in patients with severe hepatic impairment is unlikely to produce toxicity because of its high therapeutic index, and dosing modifications may not be required.
Basic Data Related to Peripheral Artery Aneurysms

Peripheral artery aneurysms obviously encompass a broad anatomic range. The following tables present basic data selected to define the clinical characteristics of each lesion. For both femoral and popliteal aneurysms there is a marked male predominance, with lesions in females being distinctly unusual. A majority of patients with these lesions have a generalized tendency toward aneurysm formation and many harbor aneurysms at multiple sites. Over one-third will have abdominal aortic aneurysms. Popliteal aneurysms seldom rupture but often cause ischemic symptoms by thrombosis or embolism. Carotid aneurysms occur in younger patients with only about a 2: 1 male-female ratio. Only about one-half of the lesions appear to be caused by atherosclerosis with the remainder divided between false aneurysms, surgical trauma, and connective tissue diseases. While
cAMP Stimulates Apical Exocytosis of the Renal Na+-K+-2Cl- Cotransporter NKCC2 in the Thick Ascending Limb: ROLE OF PROTEIN KINASE A

The apical renal Na(+)-K(+)-2Cl(-) cotransporter NKCC2 mediates NaCl absorption by the thick ascending limb (TAL) of Henle's loop. cAMP stimulates NKCC2 by enhancing steady-state apical membrane levels of this protein; however, the trafficking and signaling mechanisms by which this occurs have not been studied. Here, we report that stimulation of endogenous cAMP levels with either forskolin/3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX) or the V2 receptor agonist [deamino-Cys(1),d-Arg(8)]vasopressin increases steady-state surface NKCC2 and that the protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor H-89 blocks this effect. Confocal imaging of apical surface NKCC2 in isolated perfused TALs confirmed a stimulatory effect of cAMP on apical trafficking that was blocked by PKA inhibition. Selective stimulation of PKA with the agonist N(6)-benzoyl-cAMP (500 microm) stimulated steady-state surface NKCC2, whereas the Epac-selective agonist 8-p-chlorophenylthio-2'-O-methyl-cAMP (100 and 250 microm) had no effect. To explore the trafficking mechanism by which cAMP increases apical NKCC2, we measured cumulative apical membrane exocytosis and NKCC2 exocytic insertion in TALs. By monitoring apical FM1-43 fluorescence, we observed rapid stimulation of apical exocytosis (2 min) by forskolin/IBMX. We also found constitutive exocytic insertion of NKCC2 in TALs over time, which was increased by 3-fold in the presence of forskolin/IBMX. PKA inhibition blunted cAMP-stimulated exocytic insertion but did not affect the rate of constitutive exocytosis. We conclude that cAMP stimulates steady-state apical surface NKCC2 by stimulating exocytic insertion and that this process is highly dependent on PKA but not Epac.
Initial clinical experience with a new peripheral vasodilator, PR-G-138-Cl, in hypertensive patients.

PR-G-138-Cl, a new antihypertensive agent with vasodilating properties, was studied in ten patients with moderate to severe hypertension. The patients were admitted to a metabolic ward and followed on a 2 gm salt diet. Placebo was given daily until blood pressure and weight were stabilized. A dose titration was then started with increasing single daily doses of 3, 5, 8, and 10 mg of PR-G-138-Cl orally. The dose at which the mean arterial pressure was reduced by 15 mm Hg was continued for a total of seven days. PR-G-138-Cl lowered sitting mean arterial pressures significantly in all subjects (133.8±15.1 → 116.0±12.4 mm Hg, p<0.001). The antihypertensive effect was first noted 30 minutes following drug administration and persisted for as long as six hours with a peak effect at one hour. All patients had a significant increase in sitting pulse rate (80.4±9.11 → 90.0 ±6.91/min, p<0.002). Blood pressure reduction and increase in pulse rate were dose related. The most common side effects noted were headaches in eight out of ten patients and postural dizziness in seven out of ten patients. There were no signs of fluid retention (weight gain or edema). Electrocardiogram and other laboratory parameters remained essentially unchanged.
Birth Order and Affiliation

Five studies are reported on the generality and consistency of the relation of birth order to affiliation. Questionnaires asking for information about affiliation were submitted to each of five samples of both males and females. From the first study it was concluded that, compared with later borns, female first borns belong to more organizations (P < 0.01), obtain dates more easily (P < 0.06), and make friends more easily (P < 0.05). However, for 10 other items for females there were no statistically significant birth order-affiliation relations. From 14 items there were two birth-order trends for men; compared with later borns, first borns were more likely to be fraternity members (P < 0.05), and more likely to prefer the company of others when shopping (P < 0.05). From the remaining studies it was concluded that male first borns marry earlier than later borns (P < 0.03 in one sample), but unmarried males did not significantly prefer to marry earlier than later borns. Also, female first borns did not marry significantly earlier than later borns but unmarried females preferred to marry earlier than later borns (P < 0.05 in one sample). There is some discussion of the limited consistencies of the relations of birth order to social behaviour.
Morphological and hormonal parameters in two species of macaques: impact of seasonal breeding.

To compare physiological and developmental differences between two cogeneric species that differ by seasonal vs. aseasonal breeding, values for morphological measurements, testicular volume, serum testosterone, estradiol, and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate levels were obtained from 53 rhesus during the early breeding season, as well as 41 pig-tailed macaque males maintained at the Tulane Primate Center. The two species exhibited similar body size, testosterone, and estradiol levels, but differed substantially in testicular volume (3.00 ± 1.7 vs. 1.72 ± 1.3 cc), abdominal skinfold measures (15.7 ± 9.2 vs. 9.0 ± 7.7 mm), and DHEA-S levels (18.0 ± 11.7 vs. 7.6 ± 5.4 μg/dl). Significant interaction effects for species by age group were found for weight, tricep circumference, length, and estradiol level. In addition, length was more closely related to testicular volume among rhesus compared to pig-tailed macaques, suggesting different developmental patterns between the species. Predictors of hormonal levels differed between the two species. In the rhesus, estradiol levels were related to testicular volume and testosterone levels while there were no anthropometric predictors of testosterone or DHEA-S. For the pig-tailed macaques, testicular volume was related to tricep circumference, testosterone to triceps skinfold and testicular volume, and estradiol to weight. It is argued that rhesus have larger testes for body size and more abdominal fat deposits during the early breeding season relative to pig-tailed macaques reflecting the increased demands of sperm competition in a seasonally breeding species. Hormonal differences associated with the difference in breeding system appear to be primarily related to adrenal rather than testicular activity. Am J Phys Anthropol 117:218–227, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Regulation of CTP:phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase activity and phosphorylation in rat hepatocytes: lack of effect of elevated cAMP levels.

Abstract Immunoprecipitation of 32P-labeled CTP:phosphocholine cytidylyltransferase from freshly isolated rat hepatocytes followed by trypsin digestion and two-dimensional peptide mapping revealed multiple phosphorylation sites. Treatment of the hepatocytes with 0.5 m m of the cAMP analog, 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-adenosine 3′:5′-monophosphate or elevation of intracellular cAMP levels by cholera toxin activated the cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity in intact cells. Despite the activation of cAMP-dependent protein kinase no change in the rate of [3H]choline incorporation into phosphatidylcholine was detected. In addition, the activity of cytidylyltransferase in total cell homogenates and its distribution between soluble and particulate fractions remained unchanged. Comparison of peptide maps of 32P-labeled cytidylyltransferase obtained from control and cholera-toxin-treated hepatocytes did not reveal any differences in the phosphorylation state of cytidylyltransferase. Furthermore, only [32P]phosphoserine residues were detected following phosphoamino acid analysis. We conclude that cytidylyltransferase activity is not altered solely by the activation of the cAMP-dependent kinase in fresh hepatocytes.
Reflections on Queer Theory and Communication

(2003). Reflections on Queer Theory and Communication. Journal of Homosexuality: Vol. 45, No. 2-4, pp. 385-389.
Inherent time delay for dielectric breakdown in shock-loaded x-cut quartz

Dielectric breakdown in shock‐loaded x‐cut quartz is examined under conditions of both impact loading and Q‐switched laser‐irradiation loading. It is observed that breakdown is characterized by an inherent time delay which depends on the magnitude of the electric field. For pulse duration less than about 30 ns, dielectric breakdown is not observed.
Absorption of methylmercury by the fetal guinea pig during mid to late gestation

Pregnant guinea pigs were injected with approximately 1 microgram/kg of CH3 203HgCl at 22,40,47,59,and 66 days of gestation, and fetal tissues were obtained 24 hours later. Autologous fetal erythrocytes were labeled with 51Cr and used to label the fetal blood pool at each gestational age except 22 days so that tissue-bound Hg could be calculated. In general, Hg absorbed by the whole fetus increased during gestation, in parallel with increasing tissue mass, while Hg found in whole placentas remained the same. Hg concentrations in the whole fetus and placenta were closely correlated, as were Hg concentrations in brain, liver, and kidney. Liver, kidney, blood, and brain contained the highest Hg concentration early in gestation. While it is difficult to interpret the potential effects of the increased Hg concentrations, particular attention should be paid to the brain, since it is considered a target tissue in MeHg toxicity.
Optically detected flux lattice melting above the irreversibility line in Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8

Abstract We calculate the infrared reflectivity associated with the flux lattice in a superconductor. We find that a recently observed reflectivity step can be caused by a divergence of the Campbell length (vanishing of the critical current). The step cannot be explained in terms of thermal activation of vortices, or helicon wave formation, or inertial effects associated with a finite vortex mass.
Distributed Least Square with intermittent communications

In this paper, we present a distributed algorithm to solve unconstrained distributed Least Squares optimization problems over networks where the communication links could stochastically break. The iterative algorithm allows each node with limited computation and communication capabilities to obtain the optimal solution of the centralized problem. We provide the convergence analysis of the algorithm based on an internal structure decomposition and an application of stochastic systems theory. The results suggests that agents with simple dynamics, one step memory and local gradient information could collectively solve complicated optimization problems in the presence of unreliable communications.
The relation between CDM instability and Deborah number in differential type rheological equations

Previous studies have argued that rheological equations of the differential type, such as second-order fluid models, are inadequate because they result in unstable solution after cessation of steady shear. If the sign of the viscoelastic coefficient is selected so that the storage modulus is positive, the fluid velocity increases indefinitely and the flow does not decay by viscous dissipation, in contradiction to thermodynamic laws. This study mitigates this problem by demonstrating that the solution of such equations is actually stable at low values of Deborah number De, where these equations are only valid for other reasons. In fact, second order and higher order differential type equations are applicable only if the relaxation time of the fluid is low relative to a characteristic time of the flow. The study shows how to determine the characteristic time and thus clarifies, in practical terms, the limits of the region where differential type equations can be applied.
Acetylcholinesterase in the hypothalamo-hypophyseal axis of the white-crowned sparrow, Zonotrichia leucophrys gambelii.

Abstract Considerable acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was found in the median eminence (1.2 × 10−5 mmoles/minute/mg tissue) and adenohypophysis (4 × 10−5 mmoles/minute/mg tissue) of the white-crowned sparrow whereas low activity was found in the neurohypophysis (0.3 × 10' mmoles/minute/mg tissue). Acetylcholinesterase activity in the adenohypophysis of photosensitive birds was 50 times greater than activity in the adenohypophysis of photorefractory birds. Also, photosensitive birds held on 8-hour daily photoperiods (8L 16D), then placed in continuous light, showed a striking periodicity in AChE activity in the adenohypophysis with the peak of activity corresponding to the time of maximal testicular response to light. Acetylcholinesterase activity in the cephalic lobe of the adenohypophysis was significantly higher than in the caudal lobe. There was a consistent daily cycle of AChE activity in the median eminence of photosensitive birds held on 8L 16D, with a gradual decrease in AChE activity during the course of the subjective day (low of 0.8 × 10−5 mmoles/minute/mg tissue to high of 1.6 × 10−5 mmoles/minute/mg tissue). Also, there was a trend toward a. decreasing mean activity of AChE with increasing photosensitivity in birds held on 8L 16D. No consistent daily cycle of AChE activity could be demonstrated in photosensitive birds on 20L 4D. Cholinesterase activity was low (0.049–0.122 × 10−5 mmoles/minute/mg tissue) in all tissues examined except the adenohypophysis in which moderate activity (0.27–1.20 × 10−5 mmoles/minute/mg tissue) was found.
Delayed feedback makes neuronal firing statistics non-Markovian

The instantaneous state of a neural network consists of both the degree of excitation of each neuron and the positions of impulses in communication lines between the neurons. In neurophysiological experiments, the times of neuronal firing are recorded but not the state of communication lines. However, future spiking moments substantially depend on the past positions of impulses in the lines. This suggests that the sequence of intervals between firing moments (interspike intervals, ISI) in the network can be non-Markovian. In the present paper, we analyze this problem for the simplest possible neural “network,” namely, for a single neuron with delayed feedback. The neuron receives excitatory input both from the input Poisson process and from its own output through the feedback line. We obtain exact expressions for the conditional probability density P(t n+1 | t n ,…,t 1, t 0)dt n+1 and prove that P(t n+1 | t n ,…,t 1, t 0) is not reduced to P(t n+1 | t n ,…,t 1) for any n ≥ 0: This means that the output ISI stream cannot be represented as a Markov chain of any finite order.
Semiempirical Self-Consistent Field Modeling of the Ce +3 4f AND 5d Energy Levels in Solid State Luminescent Materials

Rare earth doped semiconductors are known to be efficient luminescent materials. In particular, SrS and SrxS and SrxGa2S4 doped with Ce+3 have recently been explored as efficient blue cathodoluminsecent and electroluminescent materials for flat panel display applications. The blue emission in these materials is due to Ce+3 5d-4f transitions, and the transition energies are sensitive to the local chemistry of the Ce+3 ion. To understand the effect that the local chemistry has on the Ce+3 4f-5d emission spectrum, we used a self-consistent-field configuration interaction (SCF/CI) model to calculate the electronic spectrum of the Ce−3 ion embedded in a cluster representation of the semiconductor lattice. The effects of changing nearest neighbor anions and cations have been modeled and are in excellent agreement with the experimental spectroscopy. While vibronic transitions are not calculated in this model, the calculated line transitions were fit to Gaussian peaks to generate absorption and emission spectra. Calculated and experimental Ce3+ 4f-5d emission spectra are compared for different materials, and the observed spectral changes are correlated to an analysis of the magnitude of the ligand field splitting and the nephelauxetic effect in various host lattices. Computed atomic orbital electron populations support these arguments.
Effect of lysergic acid derivatives on the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica

Abstract Lysergic acid diethylamide derivatives, and a number of indole compounds related to serotonin, have been tested on preparations from the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica attached to a force transducer, and the concentrations which stimulated 50 per cent of these preparations (ED 50 ) have been determined. These derivatives can be arranged in an ascending order according to their ED 50 as follows: d -lysergic acid diethylamide, d -lysergic acid pyrrolidide, d -lysergic acid dimethylamide, methyl- d -lysergic acid diethylamide, d -lysergic acid monoethylamide, d -lysergic acid morpholide, 1-methyl- d -lysergic acid butanolamide, bromo- d -lysergic acid diethylamide, and l -lysergic acid diethylamide. All these compounds except for bromo- d -lysergic acid diethylamide and l -lysergic acid diethylamide had a lower ED 50 than serotonin and its related derivatives. There is a good correlation between the stimulant potency of these agents on the liver fluke and the reported hallucinatory effects on man.
Factors Affecting NOx Formation from Nitrogen-Containing Fuels

Abstract Data from a turbulent diffusion flame burner indicate that the summation of fixed-nitrogen species (NO + HCN + NHi) is a significant measure of a flame's emission potential. Raising the flame temperature by preheating of the inlet air causes a reduction in the summation of fixed-nitrogen species in rich flames. This reduction occurs over only a narrow range of equivalence ratios and only for flame conditions with low concentrations of unburned hydrocarbons at burner exhaust. Therefore, the fuel and air must be intensely mixed at the entrance of the burner. Flames resulting in soot formation heavy enough to turn the flame bright yellow yield high concentrations of unburned hydrocarbons and HCN. For rich flames this results in a high summation of fixed-nitrogen species, because HCN is the dominant nitrogen containing species of these flames. The distribution of fixed-nitrogen species leaving the burner is independent of the form of the nitrogen in the fuel; the reduction of fixed-nitrogen species with increased air preheat occurs at fuel nitrogen concentrations as high as 5%.
Body art (body piercing and tattooing) among undergraduate university students: "then and now".

Abstract Purpose To survey the prevalence of body art and incidence of medical complications among university students comparing results in 2001 and 2006. Methods Students reported body piercings and tattoos and occurrence of medical complications. Results Prevalence of body piercing was 51% and tattooing 22%. Piercing medical complication incidence was 19%. No tattooing medical complications occurred. Conclusions Body art is prevalent among undergraduate university students, with prevalence essentially unchanged during two consecutive 5-year samples. Medical complications occur frequently among those with piercings.
A Multimodel Analysis for the Coordinated Enhanced Observing Period (CEOP)

Abstract A collection of eight operational global analyses over a 27-month period have been processed to common data structures to facilitate comparisons among the analyses and global observational datasets. The present study evaluated the global precipitation, outgoing longwave radiation (OLR) at the top of the atmosphere, and basin-scale precipitation over the United States. In addition, a multimodel ensemble was created from a linear average of the available data, as close to the analysis time as each system permitted. The results show that the monthly global precipitation and OLR from the multimodel ensemble compares generally better to the observations than any single analysis. Likewise, the daily precipitation from the ensemble exhibits better statistical comparison (in space and time) to gauge observations over the Mississippi River basin. However, the comparisons have seasonality, when the members of the ensemble exhibit generally more skill, during winter. There is notably higher skill of the sum...
Colorimetric determination of gamma 2 phase in dental amalgam

A new quantitative colorimetric test for the gamma 2 phase of dental amalgam, developed by Kropp, has been used to examine a number of the newer "low gamma 2" dental amalgam alloys. The original method has been modified in that the wavelength at which the color was read was changed from 578 nm to 700 nm. Of the dental amalgams tested, Tytin and Caulk Ease had the lowest gamma 2 phase content after 24 hours. Kropp's colorimetric method for gamma 2 phase determination is simple, quick, and convenient and requires relatively simple equipment, namely a colorimeter. However, for general use, a more convenient quantitative reference standard needs to be developed.
Temporally stable patterns in grain yield and soil water on a dryland catena

Abstract Grain yields from dryland cropping systems can be affected by water availability, topographic position, and crop rotation. The temporal stability over 14 years of observed spatial patterns is investigated by exploring: (1) relationships between grain yield, soil water content, and topographic position; (2) whether the crop rotation system affects yield; and (3) possible interactions between landscape position and crop rotation. Data have been collected along a soil catena for winter wheat [Triticum aestivum (L.)] and corn [Zea mays (L.)] grain yields and soil water content from 1986 to 1999 as part of a long-term study of sustainable dryland agroecosystem management in eastern Colorado, USA. The experiment included two-year (wheat–fallow), three-year (wheat–corn–fallow), and four-year (wheat–corn–millet [Panicum miliaceum (L.)] or sunflower [Helianthus annus (L.)]–fallow) rotations arranged in a randomized block design (two replicates of each rotation/phase) with repeated measurements from three slope positions. Over all years, analysis of variance revealed a strong effect of topographic position on both corn and wheat yield (p 0.44) or rotation by position (p > 0.56). Yield at the toeslope was significantly different (p
Shape from shading with circular symmetry

In this paper we investigate the shape-from-shading problem when the image and reflectance function are both known to be circularly symmetric. It is shown that the only surfaces that satisfy the image irradiance equation under these conditions are themselves circularly symmetric provided that the surface shape is both continuous and finite.
Synovial fluid lymphocytes in rheumatoid arthritis

There is significant evidence implicating immunologic mechanisms in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). To investigate the possibility that a cellular imbalance of T and B lymphocytes plays a role in perpetuating synovitis, an examination of the peripheral blood and synovial fluid lymphocytes of patients with seropositive rheumatoid arthritis was undertaken. A significant lymphopenia was encountered in RA patients, with values approximately midway between those in normal controls and the severe lymphopenia seen in a group of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. A significantly greater diminution of T than B cells was noted in RA, and normal percentage distributions of lymphocytes in peripheral blood were documented. Normal percentages of T and B cells, similar to those in peripheral blood, were found in synovial fluids of patients with seropositive RA, seronegative RA, osteoarthritis, and gout. Two seropositive patients exhibited synovial fluid, but not peripheral blood, lymphocytes that stained both for IgG and IgM. These cells regenerated predominantly IgM after trypsinization and short-term culture with significant diminution of cells staining for IgG. It is postulated that double staining was secondary to surface immunoglobulins with rheumatoid factor activity binding intraarticular IgG. Such cells were not detected in peripheral blood in any of the groups of patients studied.
Spatial and temporal variability in relative abundance and foraging behavior of subterranean termites in desertified and relatively intact Chihuahuan Desert ecosystems

The annual feeding activity on paper baits of subterranean termites in desertified (degraded-shrub dominated ecosystems) and relatively undegraded black-grama (Bouteloua eriopoda) grasslands was measured over six years on 12 sites. There were no significant differences in mass losses from termite baits among the desertified and undesertified sites. Mass of paper consumed by termites on two sites dominated by creosotebush, Larea tridentata, was higher than on the other 10 sites. These sites were characterized by shallow, coarse soils and shrubs that did not retain a below-canopy litter layer. The spatial locations of the highest termite bait removal remained relatively constant over the duration of the study. Interannual variations in mass losses from termite baits were highly correlated with winter–spring rainfall (r2 between 0.60 and 0.95) except at one site on shallow soils. The relationship between annual rainfall and termite activity was less significant (r2 between 0.48 and 0.83). Frequency of attack as measured by percent of bait rolls “hit” were not different among sites indicating no differences in densities of subterranean termites. Degradation of Chihuahuan desert grasslands and associated vegetation change has had minimal effect on the activity of subterranean termites. Subterranean termites continue to affect soil properties and processes in both degraded (desertified) and undesertified ecosystems.
A mixture-enthalpy fixed-grid model for temperature evolution and heterocyclic-amine formation in a frying beef patty

The ideal cooking process would heat food to a sufficient temperature throughout to kill bacteria without heating the food to temperatures that promote formation of toxic or carcinogenic compounds. Experimentally validated computer models have an important role to play in designing cooking processes since they allow rapid evaluations of different conditions without the confounding effects of experimental variation. In this paper we derive a mathematical model governing the heat and water transport in a cylindrical pan-fried beef patty. The continuum temperature model stems from a mixture-enthalpy formulation that accommodates the liquid and vapor states of water along with fat and protein. The governing equations were spatially discretized with Legendre spectral finite elements. All but two of the model properties were taken from the literature, with the remaining two determined through a comparison of numerical and physical experiments. These parameters were shown to produce solutions in agreement with a different set of experimental results. The model was used to calculate the formation of heterocyclic-amine (HA) compounds (known DNA mutagens and carcinogens). Results provide an explanation based on patty temperature for previous experimental studies showing that frequent patty flipping yields a dramatic reduction in HAs.
Educational contributions, academic quality, and athletic success

This article examines the role of successful Diision I football and basketball programs in motiating alumni and other donors to make charitable educational contributions to U.S. uniersities. Results from fixed effects analysis of panel data on 87 uniersities for the period 198687 to 199596 indicate that year-to-year changes in athletic success hae a positie impact on leels of alumni giing, but that other types of donors are not as responsie. Also, long-standing athletic traditions established prior to the sample period appear to generate academic benefits in the form of increased charitable donations from all sources. Howeer, the estimated impact of a successful athletic tradition is relatiely weak when compared to the effect of student Ž. and faculty quality on educational contributions. JEL I22, H49
Electrochemical sensors, MTT and immunofluorescence assays for monitoring the proliferation effects of cissus populnea extracts on Sertoli cells

We describe the development of an electrochemical sensor array for monitoring the proliferation effects of cissus populnea plant extracts on TM4 Sertoli cells. The proliferation activities of the extracts on Sertoli cells were studied using a high-throughput electrochemical sensor array (DOX-96) and the analytical sensor characteristics were compared with conventional colorimetric MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay and fluorescence spectroscopy. This work shows that there is a definite positive trend in the proliferation effect of the extract of Cissus populnea on the TM4 Sertoli cells. All of the three techniques confirmed that the most effective concentration for the proliferation is 10 ppm. At this concentration, the proliferation effect was established around 120% for both DOX-96 and MTT techniques, whereas fluorescence assays showed a higher level (120-150%). DOX-96 showed a lower limit of detection (1.25 × 10(4) cells/ml); whereas the LOD recorded for both MTT and fluorescence techniques was 2.5 × 10(4) cells/ml. Visual examination of the cells by means of confocal fluorescence microscopy confirmed the proliferation of Sertoli cells as was determined using the MTT assay. This investigation provides a confident interpretation of the results and proved that the most effective concentration for the proliferation using Cissus populnea plant extract is 10 ppm. Overall, the DOX results compared well with the conventional methods of checking proliferation of cells. The fascinating feature of the sensor array is the ability to provide continuous proliferation experiments with no additional reagents including 96 simultaneous electrochemical experiments. The use of the DOX-96 could reduce a typical bioassay time by 20-fold. Thus the DOX-96 can be used as both a research tool and for practical cell culture monitoring.
Management of Insect Sting Hypersensitivity: An Update

Reactions to Hymenoptera insect stings are common. While most are self-limited, some induce systemic allergic reactions or anaphylaxis. Prompt recognition, diagnosis, and treatment of these reactions are important for improving quality-of-life and reducing the risk of future sting reactions. This review summarizes the current recommendations to diagnose and treat Hymenoptera sting induced allergic reactions and highlights considerations for various populations throughout the world.
Synoptic environments favourable for urban convection in Atlanta, Georgia

An examination of synoptic environments conducive to urban thunderstorm development surrounding Atlanta, Georgia, was conducted. Synoptic environmental characteristics were evaluated utilising regional analyses of heights, winds, temperature, and moisture characteristics as well as several thermodynamic variables. A flexible beta cluster analysis was used in order to identify disparate groupings of common synoptic and thermodynamic environments. These groupings were then further analysed through the production of synoptic composites, radar, and lightning distributions. Although the analysis stratified the data by days with weak synoptic flow and maritime tropical airmass characteristics, enough variation existed within the synoptic and thermodynamically grouped parameters to identify four distinct environments present during urban thunderstorms. Environments exhibiting moderate thermodynamic instability were found to produce the highest flash rates and most frequent composite reflectivity days. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Unintended lessons from the veterinarian.

Saturday morning. My birthday. We had planned to go away for the night but not before morning chores. I walked out to feed the horses and immediately sensed something was amiss. Our 2-year-old, Duke, short for Countess’ Menacing Duke, was not menacing at the fence. Duke usually appreciates food like I do. I threw the hay over the fence and he made no move toward it. Big problem. I moved him into a stall and noted he was lethargic. I took his temperature; no fever. He was tachypneic with flaring nostrils but no cough or nasal discharge. No teeth baring, restlessness, biting at his sides, lying down or other signs of pain. Out of my league, time to call the vet. The answering service picked up, the original transfer center. My vet’s partner was on-call and would call me back. Note to self: it sure is nice to talk directly to the doctor. He would be there as soon as he could. How many times have I said this to someone? What does it mean? Give them a number for God’s sake. But alas, the house call is magical. I suppose emergency medicine was born when the house call was dying so we never had a chance to give it a try. This was the original emergency department (ED). Or in this case, emergency stall. The vet came, did a history and physical and drew blood. Himself. Why don’t I ever draw my own blood? It’s quick, efficient and very impressive to the patient – well, to the patient’s family at least. Duke could have cared less. Not a good sign. The vet said he wasn’t sure what it was but suspected it was gastrointestinal. He gave some analgesia and sedation and performed the disappearing arm trick in Duke’s rectum. So the vets use procedural sedation for a rectal and I still must convince doctors to do it for an LP. Things that make you say “Hmmm.” He found the colon was distended with gas. “Isn’t there a medicine for that?” my wife asked. He stares at her with disbelief as if she had just asked if there was a cure for a cold. “I don’t understand?” he said. Clearly he had lost the ability to think like a normal person. Why do we allow and encourage that in medicine? “Could it be contagious to the other horses?” my wife asked next. “I don’t think it’s infectious. I think it is mechanical.” My wife gave him a blank stare. Apparently using English does not mean it makes sense to anyone else. As doctors we believe we have communicated successfully as long as we leave
The coarse Lipschitz geometry of \(\ell_p\oplus\ell_q\)

We show that for 1 < p < ∞ with p ≠ 2 the space Lp(0,1) is not uniformly homeomorphic to \(\ell_p\oplus\ell_2\) . We also show that if 1 < p < 2 < q < ∞ the space \(\ell_p\oplus\ell_q\) has unique uniform structure, answering a question of Johnson, Lindenstrauss and Schechtman (Geom. Funct. Anal. 6:430–470, 1996).