cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Defining Investor Confidence: Avoiding Interpretive Uncertainty in Chevron Corp. v. Ecuador

In an increasingly globalized world, foreign direct investment is becoming an incredibly important tool for investors in developed nations and the developed nations in which they are investing. Investors have increasingly been seeking protections for their investments in foreign nations. This is why approximately 2400 bilateral investment treaties were signed between various nations between 1994 and 2006. When conflicts arise, the job of interpreting these treaties often falls to investment arbitration tribunals. Indeed, in 2010, an arbitration tribunal (Tribunal) operating under the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL) rules adjudicated a dispute between Chevron and the Republic of Ecuador (Ecuador) and interpreted the bilateral investment treaty between the U.S. and Ecuador (BIT). This Comment argues that the Tribunal’s interpretation of the BIT was the most reflective of the investor’s expectations and thus encouraged further investment. As incentivizing this investment is the very purpose of the BIT, the Tribunal reached the best possible conclusion as to its meaning.
Body Size Variation in the Texas Horned Lizard, Phrynosoma cornutum, from Central Mexico to Colorado

Abstract We examined clinal variation in body size in the Texas Horned Lizard, Phrynosoma cornutum. We used principle component analysis of 10 morphological characters taken from 230 horned lizards from localities between 100°W and 105°W longitude, from central Mexico to southeastern Colorado (23.75°N to 38.09°N latitude). Females (N = 114) and males (N = 116) were treated separately. The first principle component (size) accounted for 68.4% of the variation in males, with a significant decrease in PC1 score with increased latitude (P < 0.0001, R2 = 0.243). In females, the first principle component accounted for 71.9% of the variation, with a significant decrease in PC1 score with increased latitude (P < 0.0001, R2 = 0.306). There was no significant variation in PC1 with longitude (P = 0.388).
A Role for Connexin43 in Macrophage Phagocytosis and Host Survival after Bacterial Peritoneal Infection

The pathways that lead to the internalization of pathogens via phagocytosis remain incompletely understood. We now demonstrate a previously unrecognized role for the gap junction protein connexin43 (Cx43) in the regulation of phagocytosis by macrophages and in the host response to bacterial infection of the peritoneal cavity. Primary and cultured macrophages were found to express Cx43, which localized to the phagosome upon the internalization of IgG-opsonized particles. The inhibition of Cx43 using small interfering RNA or by obtaining macrophages from Cx43 heterozygous or knockout mice resulted in significantly impaired phagocytosis, while transfection of Cx43 into Fc-receptor expressing HeLa cells, which do not express endogenous Cx43, conferred the ability of these cells to undergo phagocytosis. Infection of macrophages with adenoviruses expressing wild-type Cx43 restored phagocytic ability in macrophages from Cx43 heterozygous or deficient mice, while infection with viruses that expressed mutant Cx43 had no effect. In understanding the mechanisms involved, Cx43 was required for RhoA-dependent actin cup formation under adherent particles, and transfection with constitutively active RhoA restored a phagocytic phenotype after Cx43 inactivation. Remarkably, mortality was significantly increased in a mouse model of bacterial peritonitis after Cx43 inhibition and in Cx43 heterozygous mice compared with untreated and wild-type counterparts. These findings reveal a novel role for Cx43 in the regulation of phagocytosis and rearrangement of the F-actin cytoskeleton, and they implicate Cx43 in the regulation of the host response to microbial infection.
Bacterial Cell Production from Hexadecane at High Temperatures

On mineral medium with hexadecane as the sole carbon source, stable mixed bacterial enrichment cultures were obtained from soil inoculum at 25, 35, 45, 55, and 65 C. Cell yields (grams of dry cells per gram of hexadecane) were determined for each of the enrichment cultures grown at the temperature at which they were enriched, and also for the 55 and 65 C cultures grown at various temperatures. In all cases, cell yields decreased with increasing growth temperature. The highest yield obtained at 65 C was 0.26, and the lowest yield obtained at 25 or 35 C was 1.02. Slower growth was observed at higher temperatures.
Neurophysiological and neurochemical animal models of schizophrenia: Focus on glutamate

Deficits in N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) function play a critical role in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia. Animal models are needed to investigate possible mechanisms underlying NMDA dysfunction in schizophrenia as well as development of new therapeutic approaches. A major difficulty in developing animal models for schizophrenia is the identification of quantifiable measures that can be tested in a similar fashion in both humans and animals. The majority of animal models utilize analogous measures, wherein species-specific behaviors are used as presumed parallel manifestations of a common underlying construct. In vivo microdialysis and electrophysiology represent two methodologies in which homologous measures can instead be obtained in both animals and humans. In both techniques, well-validated, NMDA-sensitive measures are analyzed in rodents using probes implanted directly into cortex or subcortical structures. We discuss the currently available data from studies that used these methods in non-human primate and rodent glutamate models. In addition, we emphasize the possible relevance of the amphetamine-challenge studies to positive symptoms and of EEG measures to cognitive deficits in schizophrenia.
Glial Cell Line Derived Neurotrophic Factor Delays Photoreceptor Degeneration in a Transgenic Rat Model of Retinitis Pigmentosa

Abstract We designed experiments to evaluate the therapeutic potential of glial cell line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) to rescue photoreceptors from genetically determined cell death. Gene transfer of the neurotrophic factor to the retina was achieved via a recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vector containing the chicken β-actin promoter/immediate early cytomegalovirus enhancer (CBA) driving the human GDNF gene. We delivered AAV-CBA-GDNF to the retinas of an animal model of retinitis pigmentosa, the TgN S334ter-4 rhodopsin line of transgenic rats. Immunohistochemical studies localized AAV-CBA-GDNF-derived recombinant protein to cell bodies, inner segments, and outer segments of photoreceptor cells as well as to retinal pigment epithelial cells. We assessed the effect of viral delivery by morphometric and electroretinographic analysis. These experiments showed that GDNF vector treatment leads to increased rod photoreceptor survival as indicated by morphometric analysis of outer nuclear layer thickness. AAV-CBA-GDNF-treated retinas also demonstrated functional improvement by the substantially increased amplitude of electroretinograms. AAV-CBA-GDNF delivery had a significant rescue effect on photoreceptor degeneration in this animal model.
A study of the relation of the neural gland-ganglionic complex to gonadal development in an ascidian, Chelyosoma productum simpson

Abstract The possible gonadotropic function of the neural gland-ganglionic complex in ascidians was examined by surgical removal of the entire complex including the ciliated funnel and by excising one or two of its components at a time. The tunicate used was Chelyosoma productum. The operations were performed during the summer after spawning and while active regrowth of the gonads was proceedings. The duration of the experiments was from about 1 month to more than a year. No regeneration of excised structures was observed. These operations did not modify subsequent growth of the gonads nor spawning at the regular season; and in experiments of long duration the animals were in the early stages of a second regrowth of the gonads when killed. These observations do not support the contention that the neural gland-ganglionic complex of ascidians has a gonadotropic function and is homologous with the pituitary of vertebrates.
Inter-Firm technology transfers and the theory of multinational enterprise

A company that has developed a technology has a choice of transferring and sharing it with other firms for appropriate compensation, or using it for its own operations worldwide. How should firms make this choice, and what does the theory of multinational enterprise have to say about this decision? This article examines the theory, identifies attributes of a technology that makes it more transferable internationally, discusses changes in the international business environment which have fostered inter-firm transfers, and concludes with a section on host-government policies on the acquisition of foreign technology.
Enhancement of lettuce productivity by ratooning

Abstract Methods of ratooning were tested on leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cultivar ‘Oakleaf’). By using a single rootstock for four grow-outs, lettuce yields were increased by more than 50% and productivity was increased by more than 25% compared with single-crop controls.
Remote Access Revisited: Disintermediation and its Discontents

Through interviews and case studies, the impact of remote access on nontraditional students is explored. Their experiences, along with the perspectives of the researchers, highlight the need for a much more fundamental and pivotal role for intermediation.
Vitellin processing and protein synthesis during cricket embryogenesis

At the start of insect embryogenesis most of the protein mass of the egg cytoplasm exists as vitellin (Vt) obtained endocytically during vitellogenesis. Of the new embryo polypeptides (EP) appearing in the egg during embryogenesis, many are synthesized de novo, while, in some species, others derive from developmentally programmed partial proteolysis of Vt. Earlier we showed that by the end of vitellogenesis the two native Vts in Acheta domesticus exist in opposing gradients along the longitudinal axis of the egg. Here we hypothesize that this ooplasmic Vt distribution presents a milieu for Vt processing out of which region-specific regulatory molecules could arise. The metabolic origin and stage-specific patterns of seven predominant EPs (EP 1-7) identified by SDS-PAGE were examined and the results correlated with developmental morphology during the 14 days of embryogenesis. Based on antibody reactivity, peptide mapping and in vitro radiolabeling, we determined that EPs 1-3, 6 and 7 are Vt-derived, while EPs 4 and 5 are produced de novo by the embryo. The five Vt-derived EPs appear during the first 24 h of embryogenesis when migrating cleavage nuclei and associated cytoplasm form the cellular blastoderm, and levels of EPs 4 and 5 increase during days 4-6 of embryogenesis when katatrepsis and yolk mass contraction occur. Positive periodic acid-Schiff staining indicated that EPs 1-3 and their Vt-precursor polypeptides are glycoproteins. This work shows that developmental stage-specific Vt processing occurs during A. domesticus embryogenesis and points next to investigation of the functional significance of Vt cleavage products during development.
Validation of HCM Pedestrian Delay Model for Interrupted Facilities

The Highway Capacity Manual (HCM) 2000 equation for pedestrian delay at signalized intersections assumes that pedestrian arrivals at those intersections are random. However, if a significant percentage of those pedestrians are arriving from an upstream coordinated signal, the arrival rate may not be random and the average delay may be quite different from that which would be predicted. Two studies were conducted to test the HCM model for pedestrian delay at coordinated signalized intersections. Data collected at six intersections in St. Louis indicated that pedestrian arrivals at these locations were significantly affected by upstream signals. A study of delays along an arterial in Columbia, Mo. showed that 24 out of 30 data sets had delays that were significantly different from those expected from the HCM 2000 delay equations. 29 of the 30 data sets had variances of delay significantly lower than expected if arrivals were random. The results from these studies indicate that delay calculations for signalized intersections in coordinated systems should recognize the effect of signal coordination.
Oxidative Addition of Aryl Sulfonates to Palladium(0) Complexes of Mono- and Bidentate Phosphines. Mild Addition of Aryl Tosylates and the Effects of Anions on Rate and Mechanism

Oxidative additions of aryl halides to palladium complexes have been studied extensively in recent years, but studies on the oxidative addition of aryl sulfonates to palladium complexes are less common. Here, oxidative additions of aryl triflates to palladium(0) complexes of hindered mono- and bis(phosphines) and the rare oxidative addition of aryl tosylates to palladium(0) complexes of hindered bis(phosphines) are reported. Pd[P(o-tolyl)3]2 reacted with PhOTf in the presence of added halide salts to produce the corresponding {Pd[P(o-tolyl)3](Ar)(μ-X)}2 complexes (X = halide). The rate of oxidative addition was accelerated by the addition of coordinating anions but was not affected by the addition of weakly coordinating anions. This result suggests that the oxidative addition of aryl triflates occurs to an anionic palladium complex ligated by halide. The addition of phenyl triflate to Pd(PPF-t-Bu)[P(o-tolyl)3] in the presence of added bromide produced [(PPF-t-Bu)Pd(Ph)(Br)]. The rate of this oxidative add...
Absolute detection efficiency of a microchannel plate detector to x rays in the 1-100 KeV energy range

There is little information in the literature on the performance of working micro-channel plate (MCP) detectors at high x-ray energies. We have measured the absolute efficiency of a microchannel-plate-intensified, subnanosecond, one dimensional imaging x-ray detector developed at LLNL in the 1 to 100 keV range and at 1.25 MeV. The detector consists of a gold photocathode deposited on the front surface of the MCP (optimized for Ni K(alpha ) x rays) to convert x rays to electrons, an MCP to amplify the electrons, and a fast In:CdS phosphor that converts the electron's kinetic energy to light. The phosphor is coated on a fiber-optic faceplate to transmit the light out of the vacuum system. Electrostatic focusing electrodes compress the electron current out of the MCP in one dimension while preserving spatial resolution in the other. The calibration geometry, dictated by a recent experiment, required grazing incidence x rays (15.6 degree(s)) onto the MCP detector in order to maximize deliverable current. The experiment also used a second detector made up of 0.071 in. thick BC422 plastic scintillator material from the Bicron Corporation. We compare the absolute efficiencies of these two detectors in units of optical W/cm2 into 4 (pi) per x ray W/cm2 incident. At 7.47 keV and 900 volts MCP bias, the MCP detector delivers approximately 1400 times more light than the scintillator detector.© (1993) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Bcl‐2 protooncogene expression in cervical carcinoma cell lines containing inactive p53

Bcl-2 protein expression has been found to block apoptosis and its overexpression has been implicated in lymphoid malignancies where the chromosomal translocation t(14;18) is present. In this study we investigated bcl-2 transcription and protein expression in cultured cervical carcinoma cell lines and keratinocytes. Western blotting and immunofluorescence microscopy demonstrated bcl-2 expression in the cytoplasm of 4 out of 5 cervical carcinoma cell lines examined (HeLa, CaSki, C-33A, and HT-3, but not SiHa). Bcl-2 protein expression was undetectable in normal keratinocytes. None of the cell lines examined demonstrated chromosomal translocation or rearrangement at the major breakpoint-cluster region (MBR) of the bcl-2 gene using either Southern blot or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyses. Northern blot analysis demonstrated low levels of bcl-2 transcription in HeLa, CaSki, and C-33A cell lines while reverse transcriptase (RT)-PCR demonstrated bcl-2 transcription in all cervical carcinoma cell lines which had bcl-2 protein expression. Thus, these data suggest that bcl-2 expression occurs in cervical carcinoma cell lines in the absence of chromosomal translocation or rearrangement of the bcl-2 gene. However, each of these cervical carcinoma cell lines contains inactive p53, either due to mutation (C-33A and HT-3) or via complexation and degradation with human papillomavirus (HPV) 16/18 E6 protein (HeLa and CaSki). Thus, functional p53, which can induce apoptosis in certain cells, is not present in these cervical cells which have increased bcl-2 expression. Increased bcl-2 expression under conditions of p53 inactivation may provide cells with a selective advantage for survival and consequently play a role in the development of cervical carcinogenesis.
a-Si TFTs on Thin Steel Foil Substrates: How Thin Can We Go?

The mechanics of thin film-substrate couples indicates that mechanical stress in the active electronic layer can be reduced when films are deposited onto thinner substrates. To explore the question of just how thin a substrate can be, a-Si:H TFTs are fabricated on thin steel foil substrates of various thickness, and performance metrics from devices on each of the substrates are measured and compared.
Raman scattering study of interactions of cyanide impurities in KCl under variation of temperature and concentration

The interactions of ${\mathrm{CN}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ impurities in KCl are investigated by Raman light scattering in the spectral region of the ${\mathrm{CN}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ stretching frequency. The low-temperature width and observed motional narrowing of the primary peak assigned to isolated cyanide impurities is attributed to interaction with non-near-neighbor defects in the lattice. A splitting is observed in a spectral feature attributed to ${\mathrm{CN}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ pairs and attributed to a dynamical interaction (Davydov splitting). This suggests a model for nearest-neighbor pairing. The relative positions and intensities of downshifted sidebands are explained by this model.
Infrared spectroelectrochemical measurements of the electrochemical double layer: Using carbon monoxide as a double layer probe molecule

Abstract The utility of infrared spectroelectrochemical measurements to provide information about the electrochemical interface has been previously demonstrated. The use of small adsorbate molecules as probes of the interface has only recently been investigated. The infrared spectroscopic behavior of adsorbed carbon monoxide in the presence of methanol, ethanol, n -propanol, isopropanol, and ethylene glycol as well as in alcohol/water binary solvent mixtures is presented. Changes in the Stark tuning rate for the adsorbed CO are correlated with solvent dipole reorganization in methanol, ethanol, and n -propanol. No change was observed for ethylene glycol or isopropanol. For the binary mixtures, a dramatic change in the Stark tuning rate was observed as the percentage of water in the bulk mixture was altered. This observation was interpreted as a rearrangement of the solvent composition at the layer of molecules adjacent to the adsorbed CO. In the ethylene glycol/water mixture, no change in the tuning rate was observed up to 60% ethylene glycol/40% water.
Inflammation regulates microRNA expression in cooperation with p53 and nitric oxide.

microRNA (miRNA) are small non-coding RNA targeting mRNAs leading to their instability and diminished translation. Altered expression of miRNA is associated with cancer. Inflammation and nitric oxide modulates the development of lymphomas in p53 knockout mice and there exists a negative feedback loop between p53 and NOS2. Using a genetic strategy, we tested the hypothesis that inflammation-induced oxidative and nitrosative stress modulates miRNA expression in mouse model deficient in either p53 or NOS2. Mice treated with Corynebacterium parvum (C.parvum), to induce inflammation, clearly separated from controls by their miRNA profiles in wild-type, p53- and NOS2-knockout genetic backgrounds. C.parvum-induced inflammation significantly (p < 0.005) increased miR-21, miR-29b and miR-34a/b/c and decreased (p < 0.005) mir-29c and mir-181a/c expression in the spleen of C57BL mice. However, p53-knockout C57BL mice did not show a significant increase in the mir-34b/c or a decrease in mir-29c expression following C.parvum-induced inflammation. Expression of mir-21, mir-29b and mir-181a was independent of p53-status. NOS2-knockout C57BL mice showed a significant increase in miR-21 and miR-34a/b/c and decrease in miR-181a similar to the wild-type (WT) mice following C. parvum-induced inflammation. However, in contrast to the WT mice, miR-29b/c expression was not affected following C.parvum-induced inflammation in NOS2 knockout mice. N-acetyl cysteine, an anti-oxidant, reduced the expression of miR-21 and miR-29b in C. parvum-treated WT mice (p < 0.005) as compared with control C. parvum-treated mice. These data are consistent with the hypothesis that inflammation modulates miRNA expression in vivo and the alteration in specific miRNA under an inflammatory microenvironment, can be influenced by p53 (miR-34b/c) and NO• (29b/c).
Hyperpolarization of amino acid precursors to neurotransmitters with parahydrogen induced polarization

Several important neurotransmitter precursors were hyperpolarized via homogeneous hydrogenation with parahydrogen. Polarization enhancement was achieved for 1H and 13C spins by several orders of magnitude compared to thermal spectra. Such large signal enhancements of these molecules could facilitate neurotransmitter studies.
Serological comparison of polyhedron protein and virions from four nuclear polyhedrosis viruses of plusiine larvae (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Abstract Purified polyhedron proteins and purified, ultrasonicated virions of four nuclear polyhedrosis viruses (NPVs), separable into two morphologic groups of singly and multiply embedded virion types (SEVs and MEVs), were investigated by immunodiffusion and immunoelectrophoresis. The four viruses were Pseudoplusia includens SEV, Trichoplusia ni SEV, T. ni MEV, and Autographa californica MEV. In immunodiffusion, SEV polyhedron proteins formed two precipitin bands with antiserum to SEV polyhedron proteins, while MEV polyhedron proteins formed only one. All four proteins formed one precipitin band with antiserum to MEV polyhedron protein, with a spur between SEV and MEV proteins. In immunoelectrophoresis, mobilities of SEV proteins were significantly different from those of MEVs. Precipitin arc patterns were similar to those in immunodiffusion when electrophoresis was carried out at 4 C; at room temperature, a single arc of precipitation formed with all four proteins. SEV virions formed five possibly identical precipitin bands in immunodiffusion with antiserum to SEV virions. MEV virions formed three possibly identical precipitin bands when reacted with antiserum to MEV virions. Little or no cross-reactions were observed between SEV and MEV virions or between virions and polyhedron proteins. In immunoelectrophoresis, SEV virions formed three precipitin arcs in reactions with SEV antisera and none with MEV antisera; MEV virions formed two arcs with MEV antisera and none with SEV antisera. When antisera were subjected to electrophoresis, five arcs were formed by SEVs and three by MEVs in homologous systems, and none were formed in heterologous systems.
Dopamine receptor regulation of Ca2+ levels in individual isolated nerve terminals from rat striatum: comparison of presynaptic D1-like and D2-like receptors.

We have directly observed the effects of activating presynaptic D1-like and D2-like dopamine receptors on Ca2+ levels in isolated nerve terminals (synaptosomes) from rat striatum. R-(+)-SKF81297, a selective D1-like receptor agonist, and (–)-quinpirole, a selective D2-like receptor agonist, induced increases in Ca2+ levels in different subsets of individual striatal synaptosomes. The SKF81297- and quinpirole-induced effects were blocked by R-(+)-SCH23390, a D1-like receptor antagonist, and (–)-sulpiride, a D2-like receptor antagonist, respectively. SKF81297- or quinpirole-induced Ca2+ increases were inhibited following blockade of voltage-gated calcium channels or sodium channels. In a larger subset of synaptosomes, quinpirole decreased baseline Ca2+. Quinpirole also inhibited veratridine-induced increases in intrasynaptosomal Ca2+ level. Immunostaining confirmed the presynaptic expression of D1, D5, D2 and D3 receptors, but not D4 receptors. The array of neurotransmitter phenotypes of the striatal nerve endings expressing D1, D5, D2 or D3 varied for each receptor subtype. These results suggest that presynaptic D1-like and D2-like receptors induce increases in Ca2+ levels in different subsets of nerve terminals via Na+ channel-mediated membrane depolarization, which, in turn, induces the opening of voltage-gated calcium channels. D2-like receptors also reduce nerve terminal Ca2+ in a different but larger subset of synaptosomes, consistent with the predominant presynaptic action of dopamine in the striatum being inhibitory.
A Novel Tetranuclear Compound: Crystal Structure and Mass Spectra of [Re4(C6H5NCOCH3)6(Cl)(μ-O)(μ-OH)(MeOH)3][ReO4]2

The reaction between Re2(C6H5NCOCH3)4Cl2 and water in air yields a blue compound [Re4(C6H5NCOCH3)6(Cl)(μ-O)(μ-OH)(MeOH)3][ReO4]2. It crystallizes in a triclinic cell with a = 12.356(3) A, b = 14.820(6) A, c = 20.064(6) A, α = 103.38(3)°, β = 91.61(2)°, γ = 110.37(2)°, V = 3327(2) A3, and Z = 2. The X-ray crystallography revealed an unprecedented tetranuclear structure together with two perrhenate ions. The tetranuclear dication is formed by two quadruply bonded dirhenium units linked through an oxygen ligand and a hydroxy ligand. One unit uses two rhenium atoms and the other unit uses only one rhenium atom to form a Re−Re−O−Re−OH five-membered ring. The formula of this compound was further confirmed by mass spectral analysis.
Evaluation of a disease-specific instrument for idiopathic clubfoot outcome.

In 2001, Roye et al. developed a disease-specific instrument (DSI) to measure outcomes of treatment for clubfoot. We assessed this instrument using a cohort of 62 patients, ages 5 through 12 years (mean, 8.6 years), with idiopathic clubfoot who were treated as infants by various methods. Treatment groups were defined by whether the patient received joint-invasive surgery (posterior or posteromedial release surgery) or joint-sparing treatment only (manipulation and casting with or without tendo-Achilles lengthening or anterior tibial tendon transfer). The DSI scales demonstrated internal consistency reliability of 0.74 to 0.85 using Cronbach’s alpha. Higher (better) DSI scores were associated with “excellent” general health ratings and better health-related quality of life; lower DSI score were related to special healthcare needs. Patients treated using joint-sparing techniques only (eg, Ponseti technique) had higher DSI scores than those who had received joint-invasive surgery. DSI scores for patients who had received posterior or posterior medial release surgery were very similar to those reported by Roye et al. in New York for a comparable group of patients. Our findings suggest the DSI is sensitive to differences in treatment technique or underlying severity of disease. These data support the use of the Roye DSI as an outcome measure for idiopathic clubfoot in children.
Is the Phillips curve stable? A time-varying parameter approach

Abstract We derive two empirical Phillips curve models based on Robert Gordon's reduced-form specification of conventional wage and price equations of a more complete structural model of the U.S. economy. One is a stochastic-coefficients model and the other is a conventional fixed-coefficients model. We used a stochastic-coefficients empirical model to investigate the volatility of the Phillips curve relationship hypothesized by many economists during the 1970s. The visual evidence of the time-varying parameter plots suggests there has been variation in the short-run Phillips curve. Comparative forecasting shows that the stochastic-coefficients model dominates the fixed-coefficients model, further supporting the hypothesis of volatility.
The Development of Stylolites in Carbonate Formation: Implication for CO2 Sequestration

The impact of CO2 sequestration on the host formation is an issue occurring over geologic time. Laboratory tests can provide important results to investigate this matter but have limitations due to a relatively short timeline. Based on literature review and core sample observation, naturally occurred geological phenomena, stylolites are studied in this paper for understanding CO2 sequestration in deep carbonate formations. Stylolites are distinctive and pervasive structures in carbonates that are related to water-assisted pressure solution. Pressure solution involving stylolitization is thought to be the main mechanism of compaction and cementation for many carbonates. In parallel, CO2 sequestration in carbonate formation involves extensive chemical reactions among water, CO2 and rock matrix, favoring chemical compaction as a consequence. An analogue between stylolites and CO2 sequestration induced formation heterogeneity exists in the sense of chemical compaction, as both pressure solution in stylolites and CO2 enriched solution in CO3 sequestration in carbonate formations may all introduce abnormal porous regions. The shear and/or tension fractures associated with stylolites zones may develop vertically or sub-vertically; all these give us alert for long-term safety of CO2 sequestration. Thus a study of stylolites will help to understand the CO2 sequestration in deep carbonate formation in the long run.
Role of calcium in colon cancer prevention: experimental and clinical studies.

Abstract Many dietary factors have been studied for their potential in the chemoprevention of human colorectal cancer. From an epidemiological standpoint, there have been many studies linking calcium intake to colon cancer risk. Significant reductions in risk have been shown for the consumption of milk, dietary calcium and dairy products in general. Additionally, there have been numerous studies of calcium and cell proliferation in experimental animals. Supplemental calcium in the diet or drinking water has been reported to decrease the colonic epithelial hyperproliferation induced by bile and fatty acids, enteric resection, a nutritional stress diet, and to suppress induction of the tumor-promotion enzyme ornithine decarboxylase. Calcium has also demonstrated an inhibitory effect on experimental colon carcinogenesis. Mechanisms of calcium inhibition are still speculative, but the “calcium soaps” hypothesis, fatty acid destabilization of cellular membranes, modulation of protein kinase C and K- ras mutations are under investigation. Additionally, numerous clinical studies of calcium modulation of human colonic hyperproliferation in high-risk groups as well as chemoprevention trials of calcium supplementation are currently ongoing. Although the question of whether dietary calcium can prevent human colorectal cancer remains to be answered, the data presently available appear promising.
Characterization of 12 polymorphic microsatellites for the Reddish Egret, Egretta rufescens

The Reddish Egret is a rare, plumage dimorphic North American heron with disjunct colonies across its range due to habitat specialization. We isolated and characterized 12 novel polymorphic microsatellite loci for the Reddish Egret (Egretta rufescens) using 31 individuals from a single breeding colony in Texas. The number of alleles ranged from 2 to 10 among the loci within the colony. Observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.03 to 0.90 while expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.03 to 0.88. Two loci failed to meet Hardy–Weinberg expectations after correction while none of the loci exhibited significant linkage disequilibrium. Only 1 loci contained possible null alleles. These molecular markers will be used to assess genetic structure across the species range as well as examine potential differentiation between color morphs within and among populations.
Love and addiction: an uneasy marriage? A response to "The devil is in the differences"

We would like to thank Hostetler and Ryabinin for their insightful commentary on our review. We welcome their perspective and believe that it is wholly complementary to our own. In our manuscript, we focused primarily on highlighting the parallels between social attachments and drug addiction. Nonetheless, we agree that examining both the remarkable similarities and detailed differences between these processes is essential for rapid progress in understanding the biology of social relationships and for the development of new treatment strategies for addiction. While we agree with most of Hostetler and Ryabinin’s points, there is one issue that deserves a comment. Hostetler and Ryabinin point out that social attachments (which we termed “partner addictions”) are evolutionarily adaptive and generally promote healthy social functioning. Contrarily, in drug addiction, there is no social partner, and subsequently all of the social, societal, and evolutionary benefits are subtracted; while detriments to mental and physical health are observed. However, these differences in mental health outcome may not be related to fundamental differences in neuro-chemistry underlying bonding or addiction, but rather may derive, in whole or part, from the beneficial aspects of being in a social relationship. Another possibility is that criminalization, social stigma, and side-effects due to excessive exposure to an exogenous substance lead to detriments in mental and physical health as seen in drug addiction. With partner addictions, the resulting behaviors are widely accepted and strongly encouraged, and their performance often results in social prestige; if these behaviors resulted in a similar social stigma, perhaps we would also see reductions in mental health. In fact, homosexual populations, whose social attachments are sometimes treated in exactly this manner by society, are at a substantially higher risk for depression, anxiety disorders, and suicide (Fergusson et al. 1999; Herrell et al. 1999; Sandfort et al. 2001; King et al. 2008; Chakraborty et al. 2011). Finally, high-functioning addicts may meet the criteria for drug dependence despite experiencing no distressing feelings or negative consequences (Kuhar 2012). Therefore, the observation that social attachment and drug addiction have different mental and physical health outcomes is not necessarily evidence of a difference in the underlying neuro-chemical pathways. Finally, we wholeheartedly agree that understanding the bidirectional interactions of the neural mechanisms of social relationship and addiction is an exciting new direction of research that may have important implications for the prevention and treatment of substance abuse. While we obviously failed to raise this and other issues mentioned by Hostetler and Ryabinin in our original review, we are delighted that our review has already initiated dialog between social neuroscientists and addiction researchers through this commentary, and we hope that this dialog leads to a lasting union and exciting new discoveries for both fields.
Retail Grocer Pricing Responses to Manufacter-Initiated Cents-Off-Package Promotions

Manufacturers' Cents-Off promotional discounts are sometimes NOT passed on to the consumer. This survey over 240 stores across 8 SMSAs reveals the extent of this practice by various retailer “types” and provides suggestions for future research to monitor the effectiveness of FTC regulations.
Quantum yield of p–i–n photodiodes

An expression for the quantum yield of p–i–n photodiodes is formulated that takes into account the effects of carrier transport and recombination in the p-type region and consequently describes the decline in the response observed for short wavelength excitation. Applied to a silicon p–i–n photodiode, this expression yields theoretical predictions in excellent agreement with experimental data over the entire spectral range. Es wird ein Ausdruck fur die Quantenausbeute von p–i–n-Photodioden angegeben, der den Einflus von Ladungstragertransport und Rekombination im p-leitenden Bereich berucksichtigt und folglich den Responseabfall beschreibt, der fur kurzwellige Anregung beobachtet wird. Fur den Fall einer Silizium-p–i–n-Photodiode liefert dieser Ausdruck theoretische Vorhersagen in ausgezeichneter Ubereinstimmung mit experimentellen Werten uber das gesamte Spektralgebiet.
Improving angular resolution with Scan-MUSIC algorithm for real complex targets using 35-GHz millimeter-wave radar

Scan-MUSIC algorithm, developed by the U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL), improves angular resolution for target detection with the use of a single rotatable radar scanning the angular region of interest. This algorithm has been adapted and extended from the MUSIC algorithm that has been used for a linear sensor array. Previously, it was shown that the SMUSIC algorithm and a Millimeter Wave radar can be used to resolve two closely spaced point targets that exhibited constructive interference, but not for the targets that exhibited destructive interference. Therefore, there were some limitations of the algorithm for the point targets. In this paper, the SMUSIC algorithm is applied to a problem of resolving real complex scatterer-type targets, which is more useful and of greater practical interest, particular for the future Army radar system. The paper presents results of the angular resolution of the targets, an M60 tank and an M113 Armored Personnel Carrier (APC), that are within the mainlobe of a Κ α -band radar antenna. In particular, we applied the algorithm to resolve centroids of the targets that were placed within the beamwidth of the antenna. The collected coherent data using the stepped-frequency radar were compute magnitudely for the SMUSIC calculation. Even though there were significantly different signal returns for different orientations and offsets of the two targets, we resolved those two target centroids when they were as close as about 1/3 of the antenna beamwidth.
Instrumentation for determination of guardrail-soil interaction

A series of steel posts (W150 X 12.6) and timber posts (15.2 X 20.3 cm) were instrumented with soil pressure transducers to assess the soil-post load response to a 1,388-kg bogie striking the post at 33 km/hr. Soil pressure measurements demonstrated the dramatic effects of soil shear strength and modulus on the responses of both timber and wood posts. The differences in the failure mechanisms between stiff and soft cohesive soils and noncohesive soils are demonstrated by both stress distributions and total stresses measured by the pressure transducers. The measurement system has potential applications for measurement of loads during impact testing of guardrail systems and as a tool for developing more appropriate models of soil behavior during impact loading.
Some results on the optimality and implementation of the Friedman rule in the Search Theory of Money

Abstract I characterize a large family of monetary policies that implement Milton Friedman's prescription of zero nominal interest rates in a monetary search economy with multiple assets and aggregate uncertainty. This family of optimal policies is defined by two properties: (i) the money supply must be arbitrarily close to zero for an infinite number of dates, and (ii) asymptotically, on average (over the dates when fiat money plays an essential role), the growth rate of the money supply must be at least as large as the rate of time preference.
Magnetosensory evoked potentials: consistent nonlinear phenomena.

Abstract Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) having strengths typically found in the general environment can alter brain activity, but the reported effects have been inconsistent. We theorized that the problem arose from the use of linear methods for analyzing what were actually nonlinear phenomena, and therefore studied whether the nonlinear signal-processing technique known as recurrence quantification analysis (RQA) could be employed as the basis of a reliable method for demonstrating consistent changes in brain activity. Our primary purpose was to develop such a method for observing the occurrence of evoked potentials in individual subjects exposed to magnetic fields (2 G, 30 and 60 Hz). After all conditions that affected the analysis of the EEG were specified in advance, we detected magnetosensory evoked potentials (MEPs) in all 15 subjects ( P
Stiffness and strength of oxygen-functionalized graphene with vacancies

The 2D elastic modulus (E2D) and strength (σ2D) of defective graphene sheets containing vacancies, epoxide, and hydroxyl functional groups are evaluated at 300 K by atomistic simulations. The fraction of vacancies is controlled in the range 0% to 5%, while the density of functional groups corresponds to O:C ratios in the range 0% to 25%. In-plane modulus and strength diagrams as functions of vacancy and functional group densities are generated using models with a single type of defect and with combinations of two types of defects (vacancies and functional groups). It is observed that in models containing only vacancies, the rate at which strength decreases with increasing the concentration of defects is largest, followed by models containing only epoxide groups and those with only hydroxyl groups. The effect on modulus of vacancies and epoxides present alone in the model is similar, and much stronger than that of hydroxyl groups. When the concentration of defects is large, the combined effect of the functional groups and vacancies cannot be obtained as the superposition of individual effects of the two types of defects. The elastic modulus deteriorates faster (slower) than predicted by superposition in systems containing vacancies and hydroxyl groups (vacancies and epoxide groups).
Generation and Mixing of Subfemtoliter Aqueous Droplets On Demand

We describe a novel method of generating monodisperse subfemtoliter aqueous droplets on demand by means of piezoelectric injection. Droplets with volumes down to 200 aL are generated by this technique. The droplets are injected into a low refractive index perfluorocarbon so that they can be optically trapped. We demonstrate the use of optical tweezers to manipulate and mix droplets. For example, using optical tweezers we bring two droplets, one containing a calcium sensitive dye and the other calcium chloride, into contact. The droplets coalesce with a resulting reaction time of about 1 ms. The monodispersity, manipulability, repeatability, small size, and fast mixing afforded by this system offer many opportunities for nanochemistry and observation of chemical reactions on a molecule-by-molecule basis.
The contributions of differing degrees of acute and chronic malnutrition to the intellectual development of Jamaican boys

The purpose of this paper is to determine whether differing degrees and types of malnutrition cause differing degrees of mental impairment. Subjects were 59 Jamaican boys hospitalized for malnutrition in infancy and whose intelligence was assessed at school age. The measure used for degree of chronic malnutrition was height for age and for acute malnutrition weight for height. The measure of intelligence was the I.Q. (WISC). Because the social environment in which a child lives influences his intellectual development, a measure of social background was used as an independent variable in addition to the nutrition measures. Social background showed a significant effect on I.Q. but neither measure of nutrition was significant. A further analysis using comparisons who had not been hospitalized for malnutrition suggests that malnutrition may contribute to mental impairment, through a threshold effect rather than acting as a continuous variable where increasing degrees of malnutrition cause increasing degrees of mental impairment.
Texturing of Thermoplastic Yarns Part XI: Texturing with Steam Condensation Heating

An analysis of the heat transfer effectiveness of heating technologies pertaining to false twist yarn texturing has shown that contact heating used in modern commercial machines is limited as to further increases of the heat transfer rate. With a condensation heating process using high pressure steam, yarn temperature rise time can be reduced by a factor of ten when the steam condenses only on the outer yarn surface. A con densation heating chamber, a friction texturing system and a series of texturing ex periments conducted with them helped to establish the feasibility of such heating period reduction. With a condensation heating system, textured yarns possessing sat isfactory crimp and mechanical quality can be produced with much shorter heater residence times than currently used. Required minimum cooling zone residence times are also reduced due to evaporation of condensate on the yarn surface upon exit from the condensation chamber.
A readout system for the STAR time projection chamber

Abstract We describe the readout electronics for the STAR Time Projection Chamber. The system is made up of 136,608 channels of waveform digitizer, each sampling 512 time samples at 6–12 Mega-samples per second. The noise level is about 1000 electrons, and the dynamic range is 800:1, allowing for good energy loss (dE/dx) measurement for particles with energy losses up to 40 times minimum ionizing. The system is functioning well, with more than 99% of the channels working within specifications.
An in vitro validation of a commercially available metabolic cart using pediatric ventilator volumes.

Our objective was to determine the validity of the SensorMedics 2900 Metabolic Measurement Cart® (SensorMedics Corp., Yorba Linda, CA) for use at pediatric ventilator volumes by designing an in vitro validation study. The study was performed using a previously described nitrogen dilution, carbon dioxide infusion technique in which known amounts of nitrogen (N2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) are infused while a test lung is ventilated. Metabolic measurements were made at tidal volumes (Vt) varying from 50–500 mL at a peak end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) of 0 and 12 cm H2O and at inspiratory oxygen fractions (Fs) ranging from 0.21–0.60. Each study was repeated six times to assess reproducibility of measurements. At a PEEP of 0 cm H2O, the measurement of oxygen consumption (V′), carbon dioxide production (V′), and minute ventilation (V′E) were all within ±10% of predicted values at all Fs except when Vtt was 50 mL. When PEEP was increased to 12 cm H2O, error in measurement of V′ increased and became unacceptably large as F was increased. Each study consisted of six trials, and results showed acceptable reproducibility as demonstrated by narrow 95% confidence intervals. For Vts of 100–500 mL, the metabolic monitor provided accurate and reproducible results under in vitro testing conditions when PEEP was low. Accurate results could not be obtained with a Vt of 50 mL or at elevated PEEP. Pediatr Pulmonol. 1998; 26:405–411. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Induction of melanization in primary cultures of dermal cells from xanthic goldfish scale by adrenocorticotropic hormone and goldfish or red carp serum.

Abstract Previous work using primary cell cultures of xanthic goldfish skin in heterologous (fetal calf) serum failed to produce significant numbers of melanocytes by ACTH treatment. This report shows that by the use of autologous (goldfish or red carp) serum, and cell cultures enriched in xanthophores and deep dermal non-pigment cells, melanization is readily induced with ACTH. The major melanization process is the formation of colonies of actively dividing melanocytes. A rarer melanization process is the transdifferentiation of xanthophores into xanthomelanophores containing both orange and dark pigments.