cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Separation of thiol and cyanide hydrolysis products of chemical warfare agents by capillary electrophoresis

The fluorescence derivatizing agent, o-phthalaldehyde (OPA), has been applied to the separation and detection of cyanide and several structurally similar thiols by capillary electrophoresis (CE)-laser induced fluorescence (LIF). Of particular interest to this investigation was the separation of 2-dimethylaminoethanethiol, 2-diethylaminoethanethiol, and cyanide, each of which are hydrolysis products or hydrolysis product simulants of the chemical warfare (CW) agents O-ethyl S-2-diisopropylaminoethyl methylphosphonothiolate (VX), O-isobutyl S-2-diethylaminoethyl methylphosphonothiolate (R-VX), and tabun (GA). Other structurally similar thiols simultaneously resolved by this method include 1-pentanethiol and 2-mercaptoethanol. Instrumental parameters were probed and optimum values for capillary length (50 cm) and inner diameter (75 μm), injection time (30 s) and field strength (15 kV) were determined. Sample stacking methods enabled detection limits of 9.3 μg/L for cyanide, 1.8 μg/L for 2-diethylaminoethanethiol, 35 μg/L for 2-dimethylaminoethanethiol, 15 μg/L for 2-mercaptoethanol, and 89 μg/L for 1-pentanethiol. The linearity of the method was verified over an order of magnitude and the reproducibility was found to be 3.0%.
Effects of sodium cholate on experimental carcinogenesis and cell proliferation in an excluded colonic segment

Bile salts appear to be important promoters of colon carcinogenesis. This study was designed to assess the importance of the fecal stream in cholic acid-induced colon tumor promotion. Male Sprague-Dawley rats underwent transverse colostomy after induction with dimethylhydrazine (DMH) and the excluded distal colon was irrigated with saline or sodium cholate (23 microM) 5 times per week until sacrifice. Controls initially injected with saline were similarly treated. All surviving animals were sacrificed at 28 weeks after the last DMH injection. Five animals from each group were randomly chosen to assess tritiated thymidine labeling and distribution by autoradiography in normal appearing colon mucosa of irrigated bowel. Cholate irrigation failed to increase tumor yield or modify the proportion of adenomas and adenocarcinomas in this model. Paradoxically, fewer tumors per affected rat were noted with sodium cholate irrigation. Cholate irrigation also failed to affect crypt cellularity, thymidine labeling indices, and labeling distribution in DMH-treated rats and controls. An effect of DMH was seen, however, with an increase in thymidine labeling index and increased labeling in the top half of the crypt in all DMH-treated groups. This study suggests that tumor promotion with primary bile salts is not a direct affect and may result from further bile salt metabolism within the fecal stream. DMH-induced changes in cell proliferation were reproduced with this model. Use of an excluded colon segment to assess the effect of suspected tumor promoters on carcinogenesis or colon mucosal cell proliferation is feasible and may be a useful model for future studies.
Influence of Polymer Flux and Chain Length on Adsorption of Poly(Ethylene Oxide) on Physically Heterogeneous Surfaces

The effects of molecular weight and polymer flux were studied during the adsorption of poly(ethylene oxide) onto planar surfaces that are physically heterogeneous but chemically homogeneous. Substrates that differed only in the degree of roughness were prepared by thermal evaporation of gold on glass and by template stripping of gold from mica. Chemical homogeneity was ensured by modification with a self-assembled monolayer dodecanethiol [CH3(CH2)11SH]. Kinetic studies revealed that, for polymers with molecular weights between 9.9 and 624 kDa, the initial rate of adsorption was lower on smooth substrates than the rate on rough substrates. The difference in rates could be suppressed by increasing the polymer flux via a change in either bulk concentration of the polymer or the convective transport coefficient. On rough surfaces, the initial rate of adsorption was found to be proportional to MW-0.3, which is close to the scaling MW-0.33 expected for transport-limited adsorption. On smooth substrates this dep...
Some comments on ethnohistory and archaeology: Have we attained (are we even approaching) A truly conjunctive approach?

Robert M. Carmack. The Quiche Maya of Utatlan. Norman: The University of Oklahoma Press. 1980, 400pp. $27.50. John W. Fox. Quiche Conquest: Centralism and Regionalism in Highland Guatemalan State Development. Albuquerque: The University of New Mexico Press. 1978, xii, 322pp. $15.00.
Citizen Politics: A Conceptual Framework for Shaping Public Policy

Abstract The purpose of citizen politics, a research–based conceptual framework, is to develop and strengthen societal capacity to do effective public work. It seeks to enable all who are affected by a situation to participate in developing workable solutions. Citizen politics is based on three core concepts: (1) public, (2) diverse interests, and (3) power. Power is created by building relationships among diverse interests in order to take action on public problems and goals. Incorporation of citizen politics into contemporary political culture can help to rebuild the democratic notion of citizenship responsibility for the common good.
A New Method for the Characterization of the Degree of Fire Damage to Gypsum Wallboard for Use in Fire Investigations

A new method to characterize the degree of fire damage to gypsum wallboard is introduced, implemented, and tested to determine the efficacy of its application among novices. The method was evaluated by comparing degree of fire damage assessments of novices with and without the method. Thirty-nine “novice” raters assessed damage to a gypsum wallboard surface, completing 66 ratings, first without the method, and then again using the method. The inter-rater reliability was evaluated for ratings of damage without and with the method. For novice fire investigators rating degree of damage without the aid of the method, ICC(1,2) = 0.277 with 95% CI (0.211, 0.365), and with the method, ICC(2,1) = 0.593 with 95% CI (0.509, 0.684). Results indicate that the raters were more reliable in their analysis of the degree of fire damage when using the method, which support the use of standardized processes to decrease the variability in data collection and interpretation.
Does host range influence susceptibility of herbivorous insects to non-host plant proteinase inhibitors?

We examined the influence of proteinase inhibitors on digestive enzymes and development of oriental beetle, Exomala orientalis Waterhouse, European chafer, Rhizotrogus majalis (Razoumowsky), Phyllophaga white grub, Phyllophaga anxia (LeConte), cranberry root grub, Lichnanthe vulpina (Hentz), Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica Newman, Asiatic garden beetle, Maladera castanea (Arrow) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), and the black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon (Rottemburg) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). We demonstrated that all species within our test group had alkaline midguts that contained proteinase activity that could be inhibited, in vitro with serine proteinase inhibitors. Our data suggests that host range may influence the susceptibility to non-host inhibitors. Chronic ingestion of the serine proteinase inhibitor, Kunitz-soybean trypsin inhibitor (STI), significantly reduced proteolytic activity in vivo in those species with relatively specialized feeding habits (i.e., cranberry root grub, Japanese beetle, Asiatic garden beetle, and black cutworm). Chronic ingestion of STI also resulted in reduced larval growth and delayed pupation for black cutworm, and elevated larval mortality for Japanese beetle. However, chronic ingestion of STI did not influence larval survival for those species with relatively generalized feeding habits (i.e., oriental beetle, European chafer). Based on these results, we propose mechanistically-based criteria for selecting proteinase inhibitors for phytochemical defense against herbivorous insects.
Structure and function of the chloroplast cytochrome bf complex.

The chloroplast cytochrome bf complex is an intrinsic multisubunit protein from the thylakoid membrane consisting of four polypeptides: cytochrome f, a two heme containing cytochrome b6, the Rieske iron-sulfur protein, and a 17 kD polypeptide of undefined function. The complex functions in electron transfer between PSII and PSI, where most mechanisms suggest that the transfer of a single reducing equivalent from plastoquinol to plastocyanin results in the translocation of two protons across the membrane. Primary sequence analyses, dichroism studies, and functional considerations allow the construction of an approximate structural model of a monomeric complex, although some evidence exists for a dimeric structure. Resolution of the properties of the two cytochrome b6 hemes has relied upon the availability of purified solubilized complex, while evidence in the thylakoid suggests the difference between the two hemes are not as great in situ. Such variability in the spectroscopic and electrochemical properties of the cytochrome b6 is a major concern during the experimental use of the purified complex. There is a general consensus that the complex contains a plastoquinol oxidizing (Qz) site, although the evidence for a plastoquinone reduction (Qc) site, called for in most mechanistic hypotheses, is less substantive. Probably the most severe challenge to the so called Q-cycle mechanism comes from experimental observations made with cytochrome b6 initially reduced, where proposed interpretations more closely resemble a b-cycle than a Q-cycle. Although functional during cyclic electron transfer, the role of the complex and its possible interaction with other proteins, has not been completely resolved.
Multiplicity & flexibility as design and implementation features: a case study of a Web-based CL community for diverse learners

This presentation describes multiplicity and flexibility as important factors in designing online collaborative learning environments. The presentation: (1) describes the design features of an award-winning Web-based course using extensive online collaborative learning; (2) examines and discusses four aspects and specific features of the course that supported multiplicity in design, development, implementation, and assessment; (3) discusses implications for future course design and research of online collaborative learning environments.
Accurate Calculation of Hydration Free Energies using Pair-Specific Lennard-Jones Parameters in the CHARMM Drude Polarizable Force Field

Lennard-Jones (LJ) parameters for a variety of model compounds have previously been optimized within the CHARMM Drude polarizable force field to reproduce accurately pure liquid phase thermodynamic properties as well as additional target data. While the polarizable force field resulting from this optimization procedure has been shown to satisfactorily reproduce a wide range of experimental reference data across numerous series of small molecules, a slight but systematic overestimate of the hydration free energies has also been noted. Here, the reproduction of experimental hydration free energies is greatly improved by the introduction of pair-specific LJ parameters between solute heavy atoms and water oxygen atoms that override the standard LJ parameters obtained from combining rules. The changes are small and a systematic protocol is developed for the optimization of pair-specific LJ parameters and applied to the development of pair-specific LJ parameters for alkanes, alcohols and ethers. The resulting parameters not only yield hydration free energies in good agreement with experimental values, but also provide a framework upon which other pair-specific LJ parameters can be added as new compounds are parametrized within the CHARMM Drude polarizable force field. Detailed analysis of the contributions to the hydration free energies reveals that the dispersion interaction is the main source of the systematic errors in the hydration free energies. This information suggests that the systematic error may result from problems with the LJ combining rules and is combined with analysis of the pair-specific LJ parameters obtained in this work to identify a preliminary improved combining rule.
Absorption of Millimeter Waves in Dielectric Solids

Harmonics of the 3J31 magnetron (12.5-mm fundamental wavelength), dispersed by an echelette grating, are used to measure the complex index of refraction for polystyrene, for Plexiglas and for high melting paraffin. Data having 14 percent uncertainty are given for the region λ4.2 mm to λ1.8 mm, no dispersion being observed. The indices are calculated from phase angle and transmission intensity measurements which are applied to a suitable boundary value equation by means of an iteration process.
Duque de Rivas’ El desengaño en un sueño: A Contradictory Repudiation of Romanticism

Although the Duque de Rivas did not live to see the debut of his drama El desengano en unsueno , according to many friends and biographers the drama was his favourite dramatic work. Despite the author's feelings for it, the play continues to suffer from decades of scholarly neglect. The drama appears to be a harsh condemnation of the author's previous rebellion against paternal authority, or the AntiguoRegimen. In this essay, however, I argue that while Rivas was indeed becoming more ideologically conservative at the time he was writing El desengano en un sueno, the presentation of paternal authority is more complex than critics have previously acknowledged, that a closer reading of the drama alongside his earlier drama Don Alvaro o la fuerza del sino suggests a continued ambivalence on Rivas’ part towards paternal authority and that, in many ways, the hero Lisardo is more of a liberal Romantic than his mestizo predecessor.
Transitional Assessment for Students with Mental Retardation

This article argues that it is necessary to identify and teach the work behavior that is essential for successful employment. This orientation toward survival skills provides a framework to assist in determining what skills should be targeted for change. To ensure success, students must have a full repertoire of vocational and social skills, as well as a set of adaptability skills that will help them assess a problem, set a course of action, and modify their performances. Failure to assess and provide these students with the necessary skills will inevitably lead to unsatisfactory work experiences.
High temperature conproportionation of niobium pentahalide and niobium metal; A convenient route to hydrated cluster halides Nb6Cl14·8H2O and Nb6Br14·8H2O

Abstract We report the preparation of Nb6Cl14·8H2O via Na4Nb6Cl18, which is synthesized in a one-step reduction from NaCl, NbCl5, and excess niobium metal. Nb6Br14·8H2O is prepared via K4Nb6Br18 from KBr, NbBr5, and Nb. The reactions are smooth and straightforward and supply the hydrated metal cluster halides in almost quantitative yields.
Acute kidney injury in congenital diaphragmatic hernia requiring extracorporeal life support: an insidious problem

Abstract Purpose Patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) requiring extracorporeal life support (ECLS) are at increased risk for acute kidney injury (AKI). We hypothesized that AKI would be associated with increased mortality. We further hypothesized that vasopressor requirement, nephrotoxic medications, and infections would be associated with AKI. Methods We performed a retrospective chart review in all patients with CDH requiring ECLS from 1999 to 2009 (n = 68). Patient variables that could potentiate renal failure were collected. We used a rise in creatinine from baseline by the RIFLE (risk, 1.5×; injury, 2×; failure, 3×; loss; and end-stage renal disease) criteria to define AKI. Statistical analysis was performed via SPSS (SPSS, Chicago, IL) using Student t test and χ 2 analysis, with P Results Survival to hospital discharge was 37 (54.4%) of 68. Acute kidney injury was identified in 48 (71%) of 68 patients, with 15 (22% of all patients) qualifying as injury and 33 (49% of all patients) qualifying as failure by the RIFLE criteria. Patients who qualified as failure by the RIFLE criteria had a significant decrease in survival (27.3% with failure vs 80% without failure; P = .001). Patients who qualified as failure also had increased length of ECLS (314 ± 145 vs 197 ± 115 hours; P = .001) and decreased ventilator-free days in the first 60 days (1.39 ± 5.3 vs 20.17 ± 17.4 days; P = .001). There was no significant difference in survival when patients qualified as risk or injury. Conclusions This is the first report using a systematic definition of AKI in patients with CDH on ECLS. There is a high incidence of AKI in these patients, and when it progresses to failure, it is associated with higher mortality, increased ECLS duration, and increased ventilator days. This highlights the importance of recognizing AKI in patients with CDH requiring ECLS and the potential benefit of preventing progression of AKI or early intervention.
Isolation of Borrelia burgdorferi from the Blood of a Bushy-tailed Wood Rat in California

Borrelia burgdorferi was isolated from the blood of a bushy-tailed wood rat (Neotoma cinerea) from northeastern California, USA. This is the first isolation of live B. burgdorferi spirochetes from a wild animal in California. Spirochetes were observed in stained tissues from the brain, liver, spleen, and kidneys.
Enzymatic isomerization of D-xylose to D-xylulose.

Abstract 1. 1. Evidence has been presented for the specific enzymatic isomerization of d -xylose to d -xylulose in Pseudomonas hydrophila. Accordingly, the enzyme has been named xylose isomerase. 2. 2. Several properties of the enzyme have been described. These include: heat lability, solubility, substrate specificity, effect of dialysis and subsequent addition of inorganic ions, pH optimum, and the essentially negative effects of a variety of possible inhibitors. 3. 3. The equilibrium mixture has been shown to contain 84% d -xylose and 16% d -xylulose, and it has been found that added borate displaces this equilibrium in favor of d -xylulose (81.5%). 4. 4. It has been ascertained that d -ribulose is not formed under the experimental conditions described. 5. 5. d -Xylulose has been isolated from an enzymatic reaction mixture and characterized as the p-bromophenylhydrazone. No borate was present in this system.
X-ray imaging using K-edge filters

It is known that high dose X-ray irradiation increases the probability of cancer development in humans. Therefore, the dose decrease at every X-ray imaging event is a major goal, especially during CT tests, where the applied dose is generally a multiple of a few single radiographic imaging doses. Using narrow energy X-ray beams instead of wide energy X-rays has several advantages. First, it reduces the beam hardening effect, when the output beam (after the patient) is harder, i.e. it consists of a higher ratio of high energy X-ray photons than the input beam. Imaging with narrow energy X-rays also provides lower scatter noise than using wide energy X-rays. As a result we can obtain high signal to noise (S/N) ratio X-ray images while using much lower dose than with a regular x-ray beam. The paper points out how we can generate narrow energy X-ray beams by using special materials for which the K edge absorption peak falls into the diagnostic X-ray energy range. Furthermore, it will be shown that contrast agent materials such as Iodine are more effective when combined with the right K edge filter material.
Analysis of mutation rates in the SMCY/SMCX genes shows that mammalian evolution is male driven.

Mammalian evolution is believed to be male driven because the greater number of germ cell divisions per generation in males increases the opportunity for errors in DNA replication. Since the Y Chromosome (Chr) replicates exclusively in males, its genes should also evolve faster than X or autosomal genes. In addition, estimating the overall male-to-female mutation ratio (αm) is of great importance as a large αm implies that replication-independent mutagenic events play a relatively small role in evolution. A small αm suggests that the impact of these factors may, in fact, be significant. In order to address this problem, we have analyzed the rates of evolution in the homologous X-Y common SMCX/SMCY genes from three different species—mouse, human, and horse. The SMC genes were chosen because the X and Y copies are highly homologous, well conserved in evolution, and in all probability functionally interchangeable. Sequence comparisons and analysis of synonymous substitutions in approximately 1kb of the 5′ coding region of the SMC genes reveal that the Y-linked copies are evolving approximately 1.8 times faster than their X homologs. The male-to-female mutation ratio αm was estimated to be 3. These data support the hypothesis that mammalian evolution is male driven. However, the ratio value is far smaller than suggested in earlier works, implying significance of replication-independent mutagenic events in evolution.
Validation of the Brief Pain Inventory for chronic nonmalignant pain.

Abstract The Brief Pain Inventory (BPI; Cleeland and associates) has been used primarily to assess patients with cancer-related pain. Although it has been validated in many languages and is widely used, there has not yet been research published to validate its use for patients with chronic nonmalignant pain as the primary presenting problem. This study was designed to fill this gap by examining the psychometric properties of the BPI in 440 patients with chronic intractable pain referred to a chronic pain clinic at a metropolitan tertiary-care teaching hospital. Results indicated acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach α coefficients were .85 for the intensity items and .88 for the interference items). A factor analysis resulted in 2 distinct and independent factors, supporting the validity of the 2-factor structure of the BPI. Zero-order correlations indicated that the association with a measure of disability (the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire [RMDQ]) was significantly higher for BPI interference ( r = 0.57) than for BPI intensity ( r = 0.40, t = 5.71, P Perspective This paper validated the psychometric properties of a pain Assessment instrument (The Brief Pain Inventory) originally developed to assess cancer pain and extended its use for the chronic nonmalignant pain population. This provides an important and widely used diagnostic tool for the clinician treating chronic pain.
Dynamics of a positive probe in ExB drifting plasma: 3-D electromagnetic particle-in-cell simulations

Summary form only given. We present the recent results of a series of electromagnetic particle-in-cell simulations, taken over a broad range of parameter space, that modeled a positive probe in E×B drifting plasma. These results address two fundamental problems: momentum coupling in magnetized flowing plasma and the plasma/sheath dynamics of a positive probe in E×B drifting plasma. In these simulations we observed rarefied electron wings develop along the magnetic field in the wake of the positive probe and a quasi-trapped electron region. Depending on the parameter regime, either electrostatic or electromagnetic waves formed in the probe's wake (directly downstream of the probe or along the rarefied electron wings), similar to predictions by Stenzel and Urrutia1. Additionally, we report on sheath dynamics of a positive probe in E×B drifting plasma, which were clearly resolved and indicated multiple electron heating processes. These electron heating processes included electron heating due to the quasi-trapped electron mode as well as electron heating due to wave-particle interactions in the ram region of the probe and along the electron rarefied wings. These electron heating processes significantly affect the overall current collected by the probe2.
Assurance bonds: A tool for managing environmental costs in aquaculture

Abstract The environmental costs associated with coastal aquaculture, though poorly understood, can in some cases be quite large. The presence of risk, uncertainty and insufficient monitoring can greatly reduce the power of traditional economic instruments such as environmental taxes and tradable permit systems to internalize these costs. Using the Texas shrimp farming industry as a specific example, this article explores the potential of environmental assurance bonds (EABs) as an alternative economic instrument to internalize environmental costs of aquaculture production under such conditions. Drawing from previous literature, an explicit distinction is made between two mechanisms simultaneously incorporated in the EAB: a deposit‐refund incentive and social insurance. The article discusses the role of each of these mechanisms in shifting the environmental costs of production back to firm. Practical application of EABs in the Texas coastal shrimp farming industry is then examined.
Use of small-amplitude paleomagnetic fluctuations for correlation and dating of continental climatic changes

Abstract Recent advances in field and laboratory methods have made possible the study of paleomagnetic fluctuations recorded with high resolution in lake sediments of relatively small amplitude and short period (∼102 years to ∼104 years). Foremost among these methods are sediment-coring techniques that allow azimuthally oriented long cores (⩽25 m) to be raised with small orientation errors (⩽ ± 3°), and the use of cryogenic magnetometers to measure weakly magnetized (M ⩽ 10−9 A m2) sediment samples accurately. With these methods, records of inclination, declination, and relative paleointensity (NRM/ARM) have been obtained in North America that span the last ∼20,000 years. Substantial agreement in declination and inclination features is seen on a scale of 103 km in North America for the last ∼10,000 years. These paleomagnetic features can be useful in determining the relative age of paleoclimatic features, particularly in those situations where 14C dating is unreliable. Similar agreement is seen for the last 4000 years between relative-paleointensity estimates obtained from Pennsylvania lake sediments and absolute-paleointensity estimates obtained from 14C-dated lava flows and potsherds from the western United States. Similar paleointensity fluctuations to those occurring from 0 to 4000 yr B.P. in the western United States are observed for the last 12,500 yr B.P. in lake sediments from New York and Pennsylvania. Such relative-paleointensity records from lake sediments, if independently confirmed, considerably extend the range and resolution of paleointensity data and have important implications for the study of secular-variation models, variations in atmospheric radiocarbon concentration, and the proposed relationships between geomagnetism and climate. An absolute secular-variation chronology for the varved sediments of Elk Lake, Minnesota, can be used to “date” magnetically the secular-variation records of unvarved sediments elsewhere in North America.
Load balancing and task decomposition techniques for parallel implementation of integrated vision systems algorithms

Integrated vision systems employ a sequence of image understanding algorithms in which the output of an algorithm is the input of the next algorithm in the sequence. Algorithms that constitute an integrated vision systems exhibit different characteristics, and therefore, require different data decomposition techniques and efficient load balancing techniques for parallel implementation. However, since input data of a task is produced as output of the previous task, this information can be exploited to perform knowledge based data decomposition and load balancing. This paper presents several techniques to perform static and dynamic load balancing schemes for integrated vision systems. These techniques are novel in the sense that they capture the computational requirements of a task by examining the data when it is produced. Furthermore, they can be applied to many integrated vision systems because many algorithms in different systems are either same or have similar computational characteristics. These techniques are evaluated by applying them to the algorithms in a motion estimation system. It is shown that the performance gains when these techniques are used are significant and the overhead of using these techniques is minimal. The performance is evaluated by implementing the algorithms using the presented techniques on a hypercube multiprocessor system.
A procedural distinction between elective and progressive mutism.

This paper introduces a procedural distinction between elective and progressive mutism. In elective mutism, a child elects to talk freely with intimates (e.g. family members); in progressive mutism a child does not communicate verbally with anyone (including intimates). This analysis argues that clinicians' therapeutic goals and parents' expectations of treatment outcomes for elective mutism would differ from those applied to a case of progressive mutism and that the selection of the appropriate concept (elective vs progressive) to name the type of mutism prior to intervention would enhance treatment outcomes.
Nitrogen transformations in the Southern California Bight

Oxidation and assimilation of ammonium and nitrate were measured in profiles from the surface to 1000 m at four stations in the Southern California Bight. Assimilative processes dominated the turnover of these nitrogen compounds in the nutrient depleted photic zone; however, at the bottom of the photic zone, nitrification and assimilation were equally important in the turnover of both compounds. Although ammonium oxidation was strongly inhibited by light in the surface samples, nitrification probably contributed to rapid nitrogen cycling within the photic zone. Assimilation of ammonium and nitrite, integrated over the photic zone, was about 3-fold greater than calculated regenerated production, estimated from 14CO2 uptake measurements. Integrated nitrification rates below the photic zone usually exceeded new primary production estimates. Most ammonium oxidation occured in a discrete maximum around the depth of 0.2% surface light intensity; rates within the maximum exceeded rates in shallower and deeper samples by up to 80-fold. Nitrite oxidation rates exceeded ammonium oxidation rates, and did not display the prominent subsurface maximum found in the former. Abundance of both ammonium and nitrite oxidizing bacteria varied less with depth than did oxidation rates. Autotrophic activity of the nitrifiers, measured by 14C-autoradiography combined with immunofluorescent counts, was minimal in the surface samples, and increased with depth, but was not directly correlated with nitrification rates, measured by 15N techniques.
Vision-based autonomous robot control for pick and place operations

Typical robotic pick and place operations involve sensors such as touch and vision attached to the robot. In the presence of ionizing radiation this approach becomes difficult because most customary sensors degrade over time due to radiation exposure. The alternative is the placement of multiple cameras outside the radiation zone, and to identify and infer the location and dimensions of parts within the robot's workspace through image analysis. The paper describes strategies for the reliable and flexible control of the material handling robots inside a hot cell by means of automated stereo vision systems. Since the cameras can be positioned outside the hot cell, such systems would have significant advantages over sensors inside the hot cell, resulting in potentially reduced system maintenance and increased system reliability.
Swan-Ganz catheter-induced massive hemoptysis and pulmonary artery false aneurysm

Swan-Ganz catheter-induced massive hemoptysis and later pulmonary artery false aneurysm occurred in a patient with prosthetic mitral regurgitation. This patient was successfully managed by double-lumen endotracheal intubation, control of pulmonary hypertension, reversal of anticoagulation, mitral valve re-replacement, and transcatheter embolization. The pertinent literature is reviewed.
Improved Nonlinear Manifold Learning for Land Cover Classification via Intelligent Landmark Selection

Nonlinear manifold learning algorithms, mainly isometric feature mapping (Isomap) and local linear embedding (LLE), determine the low-dimensional embedding of the original high dimensional data by finding the geometric distances between samples. Researchers in the remote sensing community have successfully applied Isomap to hyperspectral data to extract useful information. Although results are promising, computational requirements of the local search process are exhorbitant. Landmark-Isomap, which utilizes randomly selected sample points to perform the search, mitigates these problems, but samples of some classes are located in spatially disjointed clusters in the embedded space. We propose an alternative approach to selecting landmark points which focuses on the boundaries of the clusters, rather than randomly selected points or cluster centers. The unique Isomap is evaluated by SStress, a good- of-fit measure, and reconstructed with reduced computation, which makes implementation with other classifiers plausible for large data sets. The new method is implemented and applied to Hyperion hyperspectral data collected over the Okavango Delta of Botswana.
The reactions of some pentaammine(o-substituted benzoato)chromium(III) cations in perchloric acid and water

Abstract The reactions of pentaammine( o -fluorobenzoato)-, pentaammine( o -bromo-benzoato)- and pentaammine( o -nitrobenzoato)chromium(III) cations in 0.01 M perchloric acid solution and water have been studied at 21dgC. It was found that the reaction in acid was the release of ammonia but in water it was aquation to the pentaammineaquachromium(III) cation. The aquation rates in water decrease in the order o -fluorobenzoate, o -bromobenzoate and o -nitrobenzoate complexes, suggesting an associative mechanism.
Helicopter trimming and tracking control using direct neural dynamic programming

This paper advances a neural-network-based approximate dynamic programming control mechanism that can be applied to complex control problems such as helicopter flight control design. Based on direct neural dynamic programming (DNDP), an approximate dynamic programming methodology, the control system is tailored to learn to maneuver a helicopter. The paper consists of a comprehensive treatise of this DNDP-based tracking control framework and extensive simulation studies for an Apache helicopter. A trim network is developed and seamlessly integrated into the neural dynamic programming (NDP) controller as part of a baseline structure for controlling complex nonlinear systems such as a helicopter. Design robustness is addressed by performing simulations under various disturbance conditions. All designs are tested using FLYRT, a sophisticated industrial scale nonlinear validated model of the Apache helicopter. This is probably the first time that an approximate dynamic programming methodology has been systematically applied to, and evaluated on, a complex, continuous state, multiple-input multiple-output nonlinear system with uncertainty. Though illustrated for helicopters, the DNDP control system framework should be applicable to general purpose tracking control.
What is the optimal duration of bisphosphonate therapy

It is reasonable to stop bisphosphonates after 5 years of use and then to follow patients with markers of bone turnover. As long as the levels of these markers remain reduced, adding an antiresorptive drug does not make physiologic sense.
Film-Cooling From Holes With Compound Angle Orientations: Part 1—Results Downstream of Two Staggered Rows of Holes With 3d Spanwise Spacing

Experimental results are presented that describe the development and structure of flow downstream of two staggered rows of film-cooling holes with compound angle orientations. With this configuration, holes are spaced 3d apart in the spanwise direction, inclined at 35 deg with respect to the test surface when projected into the streamwise/normal plane, and inclined at 30 deg with respect to the test surface when projected into the spanwise/normal plane. Results are presented for an injectant to free-stream density ratio near 1.0, and injection blowing ratios from 0.5 to 1.50
Bis(1-methyl-piperidinium) tetra-chlorido-cuprate(II).

The structure of the title compound, (C6H14N)2[CuCl4], consists of two inequivalent 1-methyl­piperidinium cations and a flattened tetra­hedral [CuCl4]2− anion. Each organic cation exhibits a chair conformation with the methyl group in the equatorial position. They are segregated into alternating layers parallel to (100) and stacked along [100]. The first cation is arranged in parallel stacks in a herringbone pattern with rows of [CuCl4]2− anions fitting between the stacks and with a Cl− ion directed into the inter­ior of the layer. The second organic cation forms distorted hcp layers that separate the other organic cation/[CuCl4]2− slabs. N—H⋯Cl hydrogen bonding between the cations and the anions consolidates the crystal packing.
Complex ambiguity functions using nonstationary higher order cumulant estimates

The complex ambiguity function based on second-order statistics (CAF-SOS) has been used to simultaneously estimate the frequency-delay of arrival (FDOA) and time-delay of arrival (TDOA) between two signal measurements; its performance, however, is sensitive to the correlation between two additive noise sources. When the noise sources are assumed to be Gaussian, we develop a new complex ambiguity function based on higher order statistics (CAF-HOS) that reduces the unknown noise-correlation effect. The new CAF-HOS algorithm utilizes nonstationary higher order cross cumulant estimates and their Fourier transform. In fact, we suggest a nonstationary estimate of fourth-order cross-cumulants and obtain the analytical expressions for its mean value and variance. We compare the analytical expressions with results obtained by Monte Carlo runs. Also, we compare the performance of the new complex ambiguity function based on fourth-order statistics (CAF-FOS) against the CAF-SOS algorithm using different Gaussian noise sources, different signals of interest, different signal-to-noise ratios, and different lengths of data.
Subcellular Topography of Visually Driven Dendritic Activity in the Vertebrate Visual System

Summary Neural pathways projecting from sensory organs to higher brain centers form topographic maps in which neighbor relationships are preserved from a sending to a receiving neural population. Sensory input can generate compartmentalized electrical and biochemical activity in the dendrites of a receiving neuron. Here, we show that in the developing retinotectal projection of young Xenopus tadpoles, visually driven Ca 2+ signals are topographically organized at the subcellular, dendritic scale. Functional in vivo two-photon Ca 2+ imaging revealed that the sensitivity of dendritic Ca 2+ signals to stimulus location in visual space is correlated with their anatomical position within the dendritic tree of individual neurons. This topographic distribution was dependent on NMDAR activation, whereas global Ca 2+ signals were mediated by Ca 2+ influx through dendritic, voltage-dependent Ca 2+ channels. These findings suggest a framework for plasticity models that invoke local dendritic Ca 2+ signaling in the elaboration of neural connectivity and dendrite-specific information storage.
Time-dependent quantum theory II. Absorption of light by dimers: Quantum theory and classical analogy

The quantum theory of light absorption by a pair of neighboring absorbers is developed in the point dipole approximation for the circumstance where excited states decay only by radiative damping. Comparison with classical local field theories, in which the monomers are represented by constant, frequency-dependent complex polarizabilities, shows that these local field theories are valid for non-harmonic absorbers only in the weak interaction limit, and only when there exist no states with both monomers simultaneously excited (e.g. one excited vibrationally, the other electronically) that are nearly degenerate with the single excitation states and also connected to them by appreciable transition moments. Failure of the local field theories is, thus, shown to be a consequence of the non-harmonic nature of real absorbers. Using a general relation between the level-shift function and complex polarizability, a recipe is formulated for calculating the complex polarizability and spectrum of a dimer.
The role of inflammation in breast cancer and prostate cancer

Inflammatory conditions increase the risk of cancer. Strong evidences showed that inflammation contributes to breast cancer and prostate cancer in different ways such as inflammation-induced DNA or RNA damage, overexpression cytokines, chemokines etc. Recent studies have begun to unravel molecular pathways linking inflammation and cancer. Some possible mechanisms by which inflammation can contribute to carcinogenesis have been found. These mechanisms by which inflammation contributes to cancer give broader views of cancer development. These insights are fostering new anti-inflammatory therapeutic approaches to cancer development.
Reconstruction of Health-Seeking Behaviors: A Comparative Study of Three Asian Pacific Immigrant Groups

In this article, I explore how health-seeking behaviors of immigrants are reconstructed and shaped during the adaptation process by comparing the experiences of three Asian Pacific immigrant groups in Hawaii: Filipinos, Koreans, and Marshallese. A total of 91 participants (52 new immigrants, 22 ethnic community key informants, and 17 service providers) completed in-depth interviews. All three groups of immigrants experienced significant changes in their health-seeking behaviors, but in different ways. Koreans experienced a dramatic decrease in seeking both primary and preventive health care after immigration, whereas Filipinos and Marshallese increased their health-seeking behaviors. Coupled with the previous health care experiences in their home country and individual characteristics, the social context of the host country, to a great degree, influenced the formation of health-seeking behaviors after immigration. The study findings suggest that tailored interventions should take into account the source o...
Introduction to the Virtual Issue

Beginning in the spring of 2011, Political Analysis has published six virtual issues.1 Each of those virtual issues has focused on an important topic of political methodology: discrete choice, causal inference, Bayesian methods, election fraud, big data, and measurement. Appearing about every six months, these virtual issues have been edited by top scholars in each area. They contain important papers that have been previously published in Political Analysis, and thanks to Oxford University Press, the papers in the current virtual issue are available for free downloading. To celebrate the success of the Political Analysis virtual issue series, we take a different approach for this particular virtual issue. Instead of organizing this virtual issue around a particular methodological or substantive topic, the editors of Political Analysis have instead selected eight papers, published in the last two years, that we believe are making important contemporary contributions to political methodology. Like previous virtual issues, these papers will be available for free downloading for a limited period. The papers in this virtual issue are:
Mid-to-Late-Life Women and Sexual Health: Communication With Health Care Providers

Background and objectives Sexual health communication can be difficult for aging women as well as their health care providers. The current exploratory study was undertaken to learn more about how mid-to-late-life women approached communication about sexual health with their health care providers and what factors impacted their perceptions of their abilities to do so. Methods In this descriptive qualitative study, 27 community-dwelling women, ages 50--80, were interviewed about their perceptions of their abilities to communicate with their health care providers about their sexual health. Interview data was coded for major themes. Results All of the women in the study had self efficacy to communicate about their sexual health, especially if there was a physical problem present. For a majority of women, provider-related behaviors impacted their communication self efficacy. Provider-related behaviors that both encouraged and hindered communication were identified. Relationship quality and provider-initiated communication were among the behaviors that encourage communication about sexual health. Women in this sample valued active listening by the provider as well as a nonjudgmental stance. Perceptions of provider discomfort, lack of time or interest, as well as confidentiality concerns were identified as barriers to communication about sexual health. Conclusions Sexual health is important to the quality of life of aging and older women. Providers can incorporate some of the behaviors identified as enhancing of communication self efficacy so that this important health topic is covered in the clinical encounter.
Hiding in Plain Sight: False Identity and the Use of Space in Akira Kurosawa's The Hidden Fortress.

While often cast aside as merely a commercial film without much substance, The Hidden Fortress (Kurosawa, 1958) actually works within late-1950s Japanese society as a subtle critique on national and individual identity. The film functions as a morality tale, questioning the motivating factors behind character actions. The Hidden Fortress clearly distinguishes between morally pure and morally corrupt characters, yet the judgment is based on similar actions. Each character in the film pretends to be something that they are not. Yet, within the use of false identity lies a deeper purpose behind the action. Makabe (Toshiro Mifune) and Yuki (Misa Uehara) are continually contrasted with Tahei (Minoru Chiaki) and Matashichi (Kamatari Fujiwara) because the motivation behind each character’s facade is different. The former characters fight for nationhood and self-sacrifice while the latter characters are only interested in self-preservation and monetary gain. The importance of identity continually appears within the narrative structure of the film, but The Hidden Fortress also visually represents this theme through costuming and camera technique. Director Akira Kurosawa continually uses off-screen space (even though the film is shot in wide-screen) as a “hiding place,” that allows identity and spatial location to be masked until it becomes surprising and alarming.
Hesperia illinois Dodge (Hesperiidae): An Invalid Neotype and the Designation of a Lectotype

ABSTRACT. The nominal taxon Hesperia illinois Dodge, 1872 (now recognized as Euphyes bimacula illinois) was described from over 40 specimens collected in Bureau County, Illinois, by the brothers Edgar and George Dodge. Since 1999, H. illinois has been represented by a neotype from Grundy County, Illinois, but this designation is nomenclaturally invalid for technical reasons. In addition, at least three syntypes of H. illinois exist. A lectotype is designated, thereby returning the type locality to Bureau County, Illinois.
National Power and International Responsiveness

Recent years have witnessed a great ferment in the field of political science over the need for more theory in international relations. Almost everyone seems to recognize that there is such a need but few people seem to be successful in filling k. The result is a tradition of inspirational writing which Chadwick Alger has called the "Toward Literature:" "Toward greater order in the study of international politics," "Toward an equilibrium theory of international relations and institutions," "Decision making as an approach to the study of international politics." The present paper, which is an addition to this Toward Literature, might be subtitled "Toward a reexamination of the concept of national power from the viewpoint of a sociai psychologist."