cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pre-Empting Disclosure? Firms’ Decisions Prior to FIN No. 48

ABSTRACT: FIN No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (FASB 2006), requires firms to disclose tax reserves and to record changes in tax reserves at adoption of FIN No. 48 as cumulative effect adjustments in stockholders’ equity. We predict that between the enactment and adoption of FIN No. 48, relative to historical levels, firms settle disputes more often to potentially decrease visibility to the IRS and release reserves more often to reduce scrutiny and increase earnings (as opposed to retained earnings). We analyze 2005 and 2006 10-Qs and 10-Ks for the 100 largest nonfinancial, nonutility firms followed by analysts. Between enactment and adoption of FIN No. 48, relative to historical levels, firms report more settlements with tax authorities and release reserves more frequently. In addition, firms with higher IRS deficiencies are more likely to settle disputes. Between enactment and adoption of FIN No. 48, firms increased earnings by releasing $4.4 billion of tax reserves, nearly equaling th...
Multi-level drivers of tobacco use and purchasing behaviors during COVID-19 "lockdown": A qualitative study in the United States.

Abstract Background The COVID-19 pandemic and associated public health prevention measures (e.g., “stay at home” orders) may impact tobacco supply and demand among consumers. This qualitative study identified multi-level drivers of shifts in inhaled tobacco product use and access patterns during the initial COVID-19 “lockdown” period in the United States. Methods Between April and May 2020, we conducted semi-structured telephone interviews (n = 44) with adults who use cigarettes and/or electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS). Transcripts were thematically analyzed using a socioecological framework. Results Nearly all participants reported changes in their product use during lockdown, though patterns varied. Increased use was most common and was predominantly driven by individual-level factors: pandemic-related anxiety, boredom, and irregular routines. Decreased use was common among social users who cited fewer interpersonal interactions and fear of sharing products. At the community level, retail access impacted cigarette and ENDS use differently. While cigarettes were universally accessible, ENDS access was more limited, driving some to purchase products online. Delayed deliveries led some ENDS users to compensate with readily-available cigarettes. Conclusion To mitigate ways that the COVID-19 pandemic may exacerbate an existing public health crisis, multi-level policy strategies, such as expanded virtual cessation services and implementation and enforcement of smoke-free home rules, can better support population health during this critical period. Policies that facilitate access to lower risk products can help minimize harm among those who cannot or do not want to quit smoking.
An Active Power Control Model of PV Power Station Suitable for Full Dynamic Simulation

As the large-scale integration of photovoltaic(PV) power station, a higher requirement is put forward by power grid analysis on the accuracy of PV station model. The PV station applies different strategies with/without scheduling instructions, or under normal/failure condition, so it has different characteristics in multi-time scale. In order to study its dynamic characteristics, an active power control model of PV power station suitable for full dynamic simulation was proposed, which could simulate the active power fluctuations of PV power station using light intensity/temperature and schedule command curves, by building station AGC control model and inverter control model. The proposed model was realized in PSD-FDS program and verified using measured data from Ningxia grid. The simulation results show that the proposed PV power station model could provide effective tool for analyzing the PV power station's dynamic characteristic.
Development of Catechin, Poly-l-lysine, and Double-Stranded RNA Nanoparticles

Developing strategies to optimize double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) delivery remains a significant challenge in improving RNA interference (RNAi) in insects. Nanoformulations may provide an avenue for th...
Bovine leukemia virus in Michigan beef bulls

Bovine leukemia virus (BLV) is a contagious retrovirus of cattle. Little is known about the prevalence, risk factors, or potential health impacts of BLV in beef cattle. Most cattle remain asymptomatic, but 30 to 40% will develop persistent leukocytosis. Fewer than 5% of infected cattle develop malignant lymphosarcoma, which in the US, is the most common neoplastic disease of cattle discovered at slaughter. Recent studies have suggested that BLV prevalence has increased dramatically, and has a previously unappreciated economic impact on the cattle industry. The objectives of this study were to determine the crude and age-specific prevalence of BLV among beef bulls in Michigan, assess the possible impact of BLV infection on bull fertility, and identify the major risk factors for BLV transmission among beef bulls.
Europe Since 1980

This book tells the dramatic story of the economic, social, political, and cultural transformation of Europe during the transition from the Cold War to the European Union. Ivan Berend charts, in particular, the overwhelming impact of the collapse of communism on every aspect of European life. Europe became safer and more united, and Central and Eastern Europe started on the difficult road to economic modernization. However, the western half of Europe also changed. European integration gained momentum. The single market and the common currency were introduced, and the Union enlarged from nine to twenty-seven countries. This period also saw a revolution in information and communication technology, the increasing impact of globalization and the radical restructuring of the political system. The book explores the impact of all of these changes as well as the new challenges posed by the economic crisis of 2008–9 and asks which way now for Europe?
Evaluation of the Biotyper MALDI-TOF MS system for identification of Staphylococcus species ☆

The Bruker Biotyper MALDI-TOF MS (Biotyper) system, with a modified 30 minute formic acid extraction method, was evaluated by its ability to identify 216 clinical Staphylococcus isolates from the CDC reference collection comprising 23 species previously identified by conventional biochemical tests. 16S rDNA sequence analysis was used to resolve discrepancies. Of these, 209 (96.8%) isolates were correctly identified: 177 (84.7%) isolates had scores ≥2.0, while 32 (15.3%) had scores between 1.70 and 1.99. The Biotyper identification was inconsistent with the biochemical identification for seven (3.2%) isolates, but the Biotyper identifications were confirmed by 16S rDNA analysis. The distribution of low scores was strongly species-dependent, e.g. only 5% of Staphylococcus epidermidis and 4.8% of Staphylococcus aureus isolates scored below 2.0, while 100% of Staphylococcus cohnii, 75% of Staphylococcus sciuri, and 60% of Staphylococcus caprae produced low but accurate Biotyper scores. Our results demonstrate that the Biotyper can reliably identify Staphylococcus species with greater accuracy than conventional biochemicals. Broadening of the reference database by inclusion of additional examples of under-represented species could further optimize Biotyper results.
Relationship of Languages to Machines

Selection of the proper interface between code generation and the analysis steps which preceed it is an engineering decision which balances two properties of the compilation: a. Most of the structure of the program is determined solely by the source language. b. Most of the representational details are determined solely by the target machine.
The ABCs of Mutual Funds: A Natural Experiment on Fund Flows and Performance

In the 1990s, a large majority of funds with front-end loads introduced additional share classes, which allowed investors to pay annual fees and/or back-end charges instead of a front-end load. The transition to a multiple-class structure provides a natural experiment with regard to investor clienteles and fund performance. We examine (a) whether the new fee structures increase fund cash flows by attracting investors with different investment horizons and sensitivities to performance; (b) whether changes in the volatility and level of fund flows induced by new investor clienteles affect fund performance - despite little change in fund management and investment objectives. Our finding is that the multiple-class funds, after controlling for performance and fund attributes, attract significantly more new money than the single-class funds. Consistent with the clientele hypothesis, investors in the new classes tend to have a shorter investment horizon and a greater sensitivity to fund performance than investors in the front-end load class. The downside to introducing the new classes, however, is a significant drop in fund performance, which erodes the cash flow benefit of the new classes. Furthermore, the performance drop is shown to be increasing in the relative size of the new classes and in the volatility of their fund flows.
Markov chain computations using molecular reactions

Markov chains are commonly used in numerous signal processing and statistical modeling applications. This paper describes an approach to implement any first-order Markov chain using molecular reactions in general and DNA in particular. Markov chain consists of two parts: a set of states, and state transition probabilities. Each state is modeled by a unique molecular type, referred as a data molecule. Each state transition is modeled by a unique molecular type, referred as a control molecule, and a unique molecular reaction. Each reaction consumes data molecules of one state and produces data molecules of another state. The concentrations of control molecules are initialized according to the probabilities of corresponding state transitions in the chain. The steady-state probability of Markov chain is computed by equilibrium concentration of data molecules. We demonstrate our method for the Gambler's Ruin problem as an instance of the Markov chain process. Both stochastic chemical kinetics and mass-action kinetics validate the computed probabilities using the proposed model. The molecular reactions are then mapped to DNA strand displacement reactions. The error in the probability of ruin computed by the proposed model is shown to be less than 1% for DNA strand displacement reactions.
FORMATION AND HEATING OF MOLECULAR CLOUD CORES

We review the problem of the structure of molecular clouds and its relation to star formation. We discuss why magnetic fields represent the most reasonable candidate for supporting molecular clouds. This picture naturally leads to a theory for the origin of molecular cloud cores, and a conception of “bimodal star formation,” whereby the modes of formation of high-mass stars and low-mass stars are viewed as being fundamentally different on some mechanistic level. Of the two modes of star formation, we examine the low-mass mode in greater detail because of the greater completeness of the developed theory. In particular, we discuss why clumps of molecular gas with the properties of the Taurus complex can naturally be expected to quasistatically develop dense pockets through the slow slippage of ions and field relative to the neutral gas, and why the growing central concentration of each individual dense core can be expected eventually to collapse to form a low mass star plus nebular disk, and, perhaps, stellar or planetary companions. Finally, we examine the role of ambipolar diffusion in heating molecular cloud cores and thereby partially account for the thermal differences between the cores which form low and high mass stars.
Vaccine-elicited antibody that neutralizes H5N1 influenza and variants binds the receptor site and polymorphic sites

Antigenic drift of circulating seasonal influenza viruses necessitates an international vaccine effort to reduce the impact on human health. A critical feature of the seasonal vaccine is that it stimulates an already primed immune system to diversify memory B cells to recognize closely related, but antigenically distinct, influenza glycoproteins (hemagglutinins). Influenza pandemics arise when hemagglutinins to which no preexisting adaptive immunity exists acquire the capacity to infect humans. Hemagglutinin 5 is one subtype to which little preexisting immunity exists and is only a few acquired mutations away from the ability to transmit efficiently between ferrets, and possibly humans. Here, we describe the structure and molecular mechanism of neutralization by H5.3, a vaccine-elicited antibody that neutralizes hemagglutinin 5 viruses and variants with expanded host range. H5.3 binds in the receptor-binding site, forming contacts that recapitulate many of the sialic acid interactions, as well as multiple peripheral interactions, yet is not sensitive to mutations that alter sialic acid binding. H5.3 is highly specific for a subset of H5 strains, and this specificity arises from interactions to the periphery of the receptor-binding site. H5.3 is also extremely potent, despite retaining germ line-like conformational flexibility.
Shifts in plant species elevational range limits and abundances observed over nearly five decades in a western North America mountain range

Question Have there been shifts in abundance and distribution of alpine and sub-alpine plant species along an elevational gradient in an arid North American mountain range during the last half-century? Location Elevational gradient in the White Mountains, California, USA (37°30′ N, 118°10′ W). Methods We conducted a 49-yr re-survey of plant species distribution and abundance in areas originally surveyed in 1961. Species abundance data were collected along line transects between elevations of 2900 and 4000 m. We evaluated the degree of plant community shift over time across elevations; specifically, we expected species ranges to shift upward such that species peak abundances would be observed higher in elevation in 2010 than in 1961. To address this expectation we conducted a permutational multivariate linear model analysis with elevation, soil type and year as factors. We further performed single-species analyses to evaluate how focal species contributed to the multivariate community-level shifts between 2010 and 1961, and how these varied across elevations and soil types. Growing season climate data (June 1 through October 31) collected between 1961 and 2010 were analysed to quantify the change in annual mean temperature and precipitation at this site. Results We found that Artemisia rothrockii increased in abundance at the upper reaches of its distribution between the 2010 and 1961 surveys. Additionally, we recorded significant declines in abundances in the lower elevation ranges of three alpine cushion plants: Trifolium andersonii, Phlox condensata and Eriogonum ovalifolium. These shifts coincided with a 0.98 °C increase in mean growing season temperatures and a 53 mm decrease in mean annual precipitation between 1961 and 2010. Conclusions These results suggest that rising temperatures and decreasing precipitation are negatively impacting alpine plant species while promoting expansion of sub-alpine species, possibly signalling the transition of this alpine plant community to sagebrush steppe.
Stereopsis in the falcon

Stereoscopic depth perception is demonstrated in the falcon, a non-mammalian with binocular vision. This result complements recent physiological evidence for binocular interaction in the bird visual system, and suggests that stereopsis may be a general attribute of vertebrate vision and not an exclusive product of mammalian evolution.
Supporting Mechanical Reasoning with a Representationally-Rich Learning Environment

A learning environment to support mechanical reasoning and understanding of simple machines for middle school and high school students is presented, along with results of an evaluation of its effectiveness in student learning. Based on recommendations from literature on instructional frameworks and cognitive aspects of mechanical reasoning, SIMALE (the Simple Machines Learning Environment) was designed to support reflection, collaboration, and presentation of concepts from multiple perspectives. SIMALE was implemented with a diverse population of middle and high school students with three treatment variations: (1) environment with focus on Lego exercises to engage in hands-on physical activities, (2) environment with focus on a Web-based computer module, and (3) environment with both the computer module and Lego exercises. Analyses of results show significant increases in post-test performance for all treatment variations within SIMALE. The results also revealed unexpected dramatic results in equalizing post-test scores along ethnic and gender dimensions, in spite of large population differences in pre-test scores.
Radiocarbon deficiencies of US Gulf Coast lakes compromise paleo-hurricane records

Abstract Radiocarbon assays of sediments from Lake Shelby, US Gulf Coast, exhibit substantial 14C deficiencies of 9.3% and 4.7% for the limnic sapropel and associated fresh-water clams Rangia cuneata, respectively. Measured radiocarbon dates from the sapropel and clams require corrections of 785 ± 80 and 365 ± 90 14C yr (1σ), respectively, in order to achieve consistency with the radiocarbon time scale. Lake sediments of the US Gulf Coast serve as unique repositories of pre-historic hurricane strikes. Previously unrecognized radiocarbon deficiencies likely render compromised chronologies of the paleo-hurricane records, and erroneous estimates of return period and landfall probability that are derived from the storm chronologies. The recalculated severe hurricane chronologies suggest that the annual landfall probabilities of the last millennium on the US Gulf Coast are equal to, or higher than, the preceding three millennia.
The end-joining reaction in V(D)J recombination.

V(D)J recombination consists of a DNA cleavage reaction catalysed by RAG1 and RAG2, followed by an end-joining reaction that utilizes the cell's double-strand break repair machinery. Genes essential for the end-joining reaction include:XRCC4encoding a protein of unknown enzymatic function;XRCC5andXRCC6encoding 86 and 70 kDa subunits of the Ku autoantigen, a DNA end-binding protein that is also the regulatory subunit of DNA-dependent protein kinase (DNA-PK); andXRCC7encoding the catalytic subunit (DNA-PKCS) of DNA-PK. Recent progress in understanding the cleavage reaction, coupled with what was previously known about Ku, DNA-PK, and double-strand break repair, provide the foundation for a working model of how V(D)J recombination might be catalysed.
Effect of inhaled carbon on surface properties of rat lung

Abstract The influence of carbon dust on pulmonary surface properties was examined on rats exposed continuously for 16 days to 4.0 mg/m 3 of carbon. No differences were noted in the retractive force or surface tension from lung washings of carbon exposed lungs. Lung washings yielded a significant increase in total phospholipid and lecithin in lungs exposed to carbon. Acute exposure to carbon dust does not appear to have any immediate effect on the surfactant material.
The Status of the Effect of Gelatin on Muscular Fatigue

(1941). The Status of the Effect of Gelatin on Muscular Fatigue. Research Quarterly. American Association for Health, Physical Education and Recreation: Vol. 12, No. 1, pp. 61-64.
In vitro shoot proliferation and plant regeneration from kurrat (Allium ampeloprasum var. kurrat) seedlings

Shoots were produced from kurrat seedling and mature plant explants cultured in Murashige and Skoog medium (MS) alone or supplemented with 4.4 μM benzyladenine (BA). Shoots were also produced from explants through a two-step procedure. Regenerated shoots were induced to form roots on MS medium with 5 g I-1 activated charcoal. Plants were successfully established in soil.
Energy distribution mapping of beta radioactive sources

Abstract We have developed a novel procedure in extracting the energy distribution of radioactive beta emitters that has a direct application in detector energy calibration. The method employs a highly non-uniform magnetic field from a permanent dipole magnet and an array of 12 0.1 × 0.1 × 31 cm 3 scintillating fibers. By scanning the radioactive source across the entire entrance face of the magnet and recording the exit position of the electrons on the dispersive plane, we generated a full 2D map of the energy-position correlation functions. By combining the ADC spectra and a Geant4 simulation of the experimental setup, we were able to reconstruct the entire energy spectrum of a 25 μ Ci 90 Sr/ 90 Y point source used within a 1.4% accuracy.
Growth arrest: A prerequisite for sexual development in Phycomyces blakesleeanus

Abstract Cultures of Phycomyces blakesleeanus reduce their growth rates by an order of magnitude or more when they come within a millimeter of another culture of P. blakesleeanus . Three to four hours later hyphal tips swell to form zygophores if cultures are of opposite mating types. In contrast, cultures of P. blakesleeanus maintain a constant growth rate upon meeting cultures of Blakeslea trispora and Mucor mucedo. P. blakesleeanus forms no zygophores in crosses with cultures of B. trispora and only a few transitory zygophores in crosses with cultures of M. mucedo even though the same sex pheromones function in all three species. P. blakesleeanus apparently does not grow but forms many zygophores when placed in front of either species in the absence of an external nitrogen source. Bioassay for sex pheromones with one and two cultures of P. blakesleeanus also demonstrate that zygophores do not form in vegetatively growing cultures. Thus, growth arrest is a prerequisite for sexual development in P. blakesleeanus . Whether growth arrest normally results from nutrient depletion or through the action of an inhibitor is unknown. It is inferred from the interspecies crosses that: (1) the sex pheromones are not growth inhibitors, (2) growing cultures of P. blakesleeanus have functional sex pheromone receptors, and (3) cultures of B. trispora , like cultures of P. blakesleeanus , do not form zygophores in response to physiological levels of externally supplied trisporic acids.
Temperature dependences for the reactions of Ar+, O2+, and C7H7+ with toluene and ethylbenzene

Abstract : We have studied the reactions of Ar+, O-2(+), and C2H2* with toluene (CH3-C6H5) and ethylbenzene (C2H5-C6H5) as a function of temperature. Ar+ reacts with C7H8 at the collision rate constant at both 300 and 500 K to produce mainly C7H7+ cations (similar to 85%), with the remainder of the reactivity divided into numerous small channels. The fraction of C7H7+ produced as benzylium(+) (6 membered ring, Bz(+)) as opposed to tropylium(+) (7 membered ring, Tr+) is determined through ion-molecule reactivity to be primarily Bz(+). The reaction of Ar+ with C8H10 proceeds at slightly lower than the collision rate constant at 300 K, but increases to the collision rate constant at 500 K. Over 80% of the products were C7H7+, the large majority of which also is Bz(+). The O-2(+) reaction with C8H10 proceeds at the collision rate constant and produces C8H10+, C6H6+, and C7H7+, with the latter again primarily being Bz(+). C7H7+ was found to react with both CH3-C6H5 and C2H5-C6H5 by both collisionally stabilized clustering and a bimolecular reaction forming R-C6H4-CH2+. At 300 K the rate constants are about half of the collision rate constant and drop rapidly with temperature. About 2/3 of the products are clusters at 300 K, 1/3 at 400 K, and negligible amounts at 500 and 600 K. Evidence for thermal dissociation of the cluster is presented. Calculations show the most stable structure is the one where the methylene group of benzylium is coordinated at the para position of the alkylbenzene, with one phenyl group approximately 45 degrees out of plane relative to the other. A bond strength of 15-16 kcal mol(-1) is calculated for both neutrals. Numerous less stable structures were found.
Response of Starlings to Distress Calls and Predator Models Holding Conspecific Prey

Starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) were more wary of an owl model after a live starling was tethered to its talons than they had been during the prior presentation of the model or tethered starling separately. After this presentation, the starlings were more wary of the owl model itself than previously. Tethering a dead starling to the owl model did not increase the birds' wariness. Starlings usually fled the area during the playback of distress calls, but placing an owl model out during the playback did not increase the starlings' subsequent wariness of the model. Zusammenfassung Es wurden Versuche mit Eulen-Modellen durchgefuhrt, um festzustellen, ob Stare Rauber erkennen konnen und ihr Verhalten durch Sehen einer Rauber-Beute-Interaktion andern. Im ersten Versuch wurde die Antwort der Stare auf eine Eulen-Attrappe beobachtet, ehe und nachdem man ihr einen lebenden Star an die Fange gebunden hatte. Die Stare verhielten sich dem Eulen-Modell mit dem Staropfer gegenuber vorsichtiger als gegenuber der Attrappe allein. Auch nachdem kein Star mehr unter der Eule hing, blieben die Versuchstiere dieser gegenuber vorsichtiger als zu Beginn. Die Stare hatten durch den Anblick des unter der Eule zappelnden Stars gelernt. Das Anbinden eines toten Stars rief eine schwachere Reaktion hervor. Tonbandaufnahmen zeigten, das der lebende Star wahrend der Versuche nicht gerufen hatte. Im zweiten Experiment fluchteten die Stare, wenn ihnen Notrufe vom Band vorgespielt wurden, egal, ob eine Eulen-Attrappe da war oder nicht. Die Kombination von Not-rufen und Eulen-Attrappen schien die spatere Reaktion der Stare beim Anblick der Attrappe allein nicht zu andern.
Some comments on the topology of the geomagnetic tail

The magnetotail topology of the noon-midnight meridian is considered, taking into account the determination of the trajectory of the X line across the tail current sheet. The X line is the line in the current sheet that separates plasma sheet field lines from interplanetary field lines. Attention is given to recent measurements of the boundary layer, the entry layer, and a crossing of the separatrix at the orbit of the moon in terms of the topological sketches.
Room temperature electrical conductivity of a highly two dimensional synthetic metal: AsF5-graphite☆

Abstract We report here studies at room temperature of the electrical conductivity of AsF5-graphite, a lamellar intercalation compound. Compounds with composition C8nAsF5 have been synthesized where n is the stage. Preliminary measurements of basal plane electrical conductivities indicating values comparable with OFHC copper have been confirmed. Associated anisotropy ratios α ≡ σ a σ c > 10 6 are observed for n ≤ 3. Data for both the a-axis and c-axis conductivities as a function of stage for low stage compounds is reported.
Mineralized Cartilage in the skeleton of chondrichthyan fishes

The cartilaginous endoskeleton of chondrichthyan fishes (sharks, rays, and chimaeras) exhibits complex arrangements and morphologies of calcified tissues that vary with age, species, feeding behavior, and location in the body. Understanding of the development, evolutionary history and function of these tissue types has been hampered by the lack of a unifying terminology. In order to facilitate reciprocal illumination between disparate fields with convergent interests, we present levels of organization in which crystal orientation/size delimits three calcification types (areolar, globular, and prismatic) that interact in two distinct skeletal types, vertebral and tessellated cartilage. The tessellated skeleton is composed of small blocks (tesserae) of calcified cartilage (both prismatic and globular) overlying a core of unmineralized cartilage, while vertebral cartilage usually contains all three types of calcification.
Post-Golgi vesicles cotransport docosahexaenoyl-phospholipids and rhodopsin during frog photoreceptor membrane biogenesis.

Abstract Post-Golgi vesicles budding from the trans-Golgi network (TGN) are involved in the vectorial transport and delivery of rhodopsin to photoreceptor rod outer segments (ROS). We report here that newly synthesized docosahexaenoyl (DHA) phospholipids are sequestered and cotransported by rhodopsin-bearing post-Golgi vesicles to ROS. Frog retinas were pulse-labeled with [35S]methionine/cysteine and [3H]DHA prior to ROS isolation and subcellular fractionation. After a 1-h pulse, relatively uniform [3H]DHA-lipid labeling (DPM/μg protein) was observed in all fractions enriched in post-Golgi vesicles, TGN, Golgi, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes. During the subsequent 2-h chase translocation of free [3H]DHA from ROS to the photoreceptor inner segment contributed to an additional overall increase in labeling of lipids. The specific activity (dpm/nmol DHA) in ER-enriched fraction was similar or higher than in other subcellular fractions after both the pulse and the chase, indicating that the bulk of [3H]DHA-lipids was synthesized in the ER. After the chase a 2-fold increase in labeling of lipids in the ER and Golgi and a 2.6-fold in lighter TGN-enriched fractions was observed. The highest labeling was in the post-Golgi vesicle fraction (4-fold increase), with [3H]DHA-phosphatidylcholine and [3H]DHA-phosphatidylethanolamine showing the greatest increase. At the same time, newly synthesized [35S]rhodopsin shifted from the ER and Golgi toward TGN and post-Golgi fractions. Therefore, sequestration and association of [35S]rhodopsin and [3H]DHA-lipids in a TGN membrane domain occurs prior to their exit and subsequent vectorial cotransport on post-Golgi vesicles to ROS. Labeling of ROS lipids was very low, with phosphatidylinositol and diacylglycerols displaying the highest labeling. This indicates that other mechanisms by-passing Golgi, i.e. facilitated by lipid carrier proteins, may also contribute to molecular replacement of disc membrane DHA-phospholipids, particularly phosphatidylinositol.
Quantitative elemental analysis of metal alloys by laser induced breakdown spectroscopy using multivariate calibration

Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy has enjoyed acceptance as an analytical tool in many areas despite its spectral interferences. We demonstrate here the application of multivariate calibration for quantitative elemental analysis of metal alloys.
An examination of direct selection typing rate and accuracy for persons with high-level spinal cord injury using QWERTY and default on-screen keyboards

Abstraet-A single-subject rapid alternating treatment design with replication was used to compare the efficiency of two keyboard layouts, QWERTY and default, for persons with high-level spinal cord injury. The LIAISON system and proportional-drive chin controller provided computer access/writing to four subjects. Three efficiency characteristics were examined: keystrokes per minute, keystroke accuracy, and keystroke corrections. Baseline sessions were followed by 10 to 12 alternating treatment sessions for all subjects. Each alternating treatment session involved six text entry trials-three text entry trials using the QWERTY keyboard layout and three using the default keyboard layout. Four follow-up sessions were completed for each subject using the default keyboard configuration. Data analysis revealed that the default keyboard layout provided greater keystrokes per minute for two of the subjects. The keystroke accuracy was between 98% and 100% for all subjects on both keyboard layouts. The findings of this investigation revealed no clinically significant difference in typing performance across the two keyboard layouts for the participating subjects. The results also indicate that previous experience with a keyboard configuration is an important factor in determining performance. A possible treatment interaction or carryover effect between the two keyboard configurations was noted and has implications for the type of single-subject design used in future investigations.
Atomically‐Resolved Investigations of Surface Reaction Chemistry by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy

Research by our group aimed at studying the chemistry of surfaces with atomic-resolution scanning tunneling microscopy is reviewed. Three areas of application are discussed: semiconductor surface chemistry, adsorption processes at metals, and in situ studies of dissolution and oxidation-reduction chemistry of minerals.
Post‐Pinatubo vegetation index in central Africa

Abstract On June 15,1991 the Mt. Pinatubo volcano had a major eruption that injected a considerable amount of dust, ash, and sulfur dioxide gas into the atmosphere. This volcanic cloud blocked the amount of energy reaching the Earth's surface causing, in turn, a decrease in NDVI values specifically in the tropics. Estimates have been made which showed changes in NDVI during pre‐ and post‐Pinatubo periods. Two‐three weeks after the Mt. Pinatubo eruption the NDVI started to decrease, progressing until fall 1991. After that period, a gradual recovery of NDVI was observed, resulting from a diminishing of aerosol optical thickness.
Emotional Maltreatment from Parents, Verbal Peer Victimization, and Cognitive Vulnerability to Depression

Although a number of studies have examined possible developmental antecedents of cognitive vulnerability to depression, most have focused on parental variables. In contrast, the current studies examined the relation between reports by college students of peer victimization during childhood and cognitive vulnerability to depression, as defined by hopelessness (L. Y. Abramson, G. I. Metalsky, & L. B. Alloy, 1989) and Beck's theories (A. T. Beck, 1967, 1987) of depression. Results from both studies supported the hypothesis that peer victimization contributes unique variance to the prediction of cognitive vulnerability beyond that accounted for by parent variables. The implications of these results for “third variable accounts” involving general parental factors (e.g., genetic transmission of cognitive vulnerability) of the relationship between peer victimization and cognitive vulnerability are discussed.
High-affinity and low-affinity vanadate binding to sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate.

Abstract Conditions were found that allowed both the fluorescence detection of vanadate binding to the Ca2+-ATPase of skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum and the vanadate-induced formation of two-dimensional arrays of the enzyme. The fluorescence intensity of fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled Ca2+-ATPase increased with high-affinity vanadate binding ( K a = 10 6 M −1 ) as reported by Pick and Karlish (Pick, U. and Karlish, S.D. (1982) J. Biol. Chem. 257, 6120–6126). The Ca2+ and Mg2+ dependencies for high-affinity vanadate binding were similar but not identical to those for orthophosphate. In addition, it was found that there is low-affinity ( K a = 380 M −1 ) vanadate binding, which causes a 25% decrease in fluorescence. The Ca2+ and Mg2+ dependencies of the low-affinity vanadate binding were different from those of orthophosphate or high-affinity vanadate binding. The covalent attachment of fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) in the ATP site of the Ca2+-ATPase did not affect the formation of two-dimensional arrays, as detected by negatively stained electron micrographs. Vanadate concentrations high enough to saturate the low-affinity binding caused two-dimensional arrays as reported by Dux and Martonosi (Dux, L. and Martonosi, A. (1983) J. Biol. Chem. 258, 2599–2603). In addition, freeze-fracture replicas of quick-frozen specimens showed rows of indentations in the inner leaflet of the bilayer that corresponds to the arrays seen on the outer leaflet. This appearance of indentations suggests that low-affinity vanadate binding causes a transmembrane movement of the Ca2+-ATPase. By contrast, high-affinity vanadate binding was shown to cause neither array formation nor the appearance of indentations.
Risk of hypotension with concomitant use of calcium-channel blockers and macrolide antibiotics.

Purpose The literature describing the risk of hypotension in patients receiving concomitant therapy with a calcium-channel blocker (CCB) and a macrolide antibiotic is reviewed. Summary A literature search was conducted to identify studies and reports describing significant drug interactions between CCBs and macrolide antibiotics resulting in hypotension. One retrospective clinical trial, one pharmacokinetics study, and five case reports were found using MEDLINE. While both dihydropyridine and nondihydropyridine CCBs are cytochrome P-450 isoenzyme 3A4 (CYP3A4) substrates, verapamil was the CCB implicated in three of the five case reports. Based on currently available literature, it is unknown whether the risk of clinically significant hypotension is higher for patients receiving nondihydropyridine CCBs; however, due to the drugs’ effects on the coronary arteries, there is the potential for more-serious cardiac complications with these agents. Both erythromycin and clarithromycin have been shown to prolong the Q-T interval, an effect that appears to increase when these drugs are given with CYP3A4 inhibitors. The potential for Q-T interval prolongation by both erythromycin and clarithromycin may increase the risk of clinically relevant hypotension and even shock in patients taking CCBs, in particular nondihydropyridines. Conclusion Potentially significant hypotension and shock may occur when macrolide antibiotics, particularly erythromycin and clarithromycin, are administered concomitantly with CCBs. The frequency of hypotension as a result of concomitant CCB and macrolide administration appears to be small, but the risk of adverse effects and the severity of the effects appear to be greater for those patients who are older and in those with multiple comorbidities.
Critical slowing down in the transverse autocorrelation function of a two dimensional planar magnet

Abstract Critical slowing down in the transverse autocorrelation function of a classical two dimensional planar magnet is discussed. It is shown that the vortex contribution to the autocorrelation function decays at a rate which goes to zero as T → T + c . The slowing down is associated with the disappearance of free, mobile vortices. Relevant nuclear magnetic resonance studies are suggested.
Liberalism Ex Nihilo: Joseph Ratzinger on Modern Secular Politics:

Joseph Ratzinger – now Pope Benedict XVI – has a rich body of political writings that has gone largely unnoticed by political scientists. A renowned theologian, even outside the Catholic Church, he has sensitively explored the impact of secularism and religion on liberal democracy. In public and in print, he even debated the philosopher Jurgen Habermas on these topics. This article explores his novel contribution to the study of the liberal state: a secularised, religious foundation for the state will balance autonomy for the citizens with a needed moral orientation for the political realm.
COMMUNITY STRUCTURE OF FORAMINIFERA FROM TWO MIOCENE BEDS AT CALVERT CLIFFS, MARYLAND

On each of two horizontal beds in the Miocene sediments at Calvert Cliffs, Maryland, nine stations were placed in an equally spaced grid. At each station five samples were taken at random, and in each sample individuals were identified to species and counted. A list of species proportions or relative abundances constitutes a vector, p, with rank S = species richness. The statistical distribution of p is defined as the community structure. To identify community structure, species abundances are cumulated in successive samples and the species richness, S, the information function, H, and the evenness, E, are evaluated at each stage. The graph or curve of the cumulated frequency, the distribution function, is identifiable for various statistical distributions and allows for community structure identification. The entire procedure is called SHE analysis for community structure identification, SHECSI. For a log series distribution, the regression on the cumulated frequency lnS = a + blnE has a value of slope b = −1 and of intercept a = H. The results obtained from both beds at Calvert Cliffs are in agreement with the expectation of a log series distribution. Comparison of the results from these fossil populations with results from living and total populations indicates that a log series distribution is the expected distribution for the structure of living and fossil shallow-water foraminiferal communities.
Numerical simulation of the SASW test

The paper describes numerical simulation of the SASW test. Influences of the test setup and applied filtering criteria on the accuracy of the obtained field dispersion curve for various soil stratification conditions have been examined. The results presented indicate significant variations in the evaluated dispersion in cases of irregular soil profiles if the existing criteria are applied. A new filtering criteria has been proposed.
An adjustment process defined on a constraint surface with an application to Ramsey pricing

Abstract This paper considers a gradient method algorithm which locates a local optimum of an objective function on a constraint surface. The adjustment process is applied to the problem of searching for a Ramsey optimal price vector for a monopoly firm.
Characterization of ammonium and nitrate absorption in pumpkin (cucurbita moschata Poir.)

Abstract Solution depletion experiments were conducted to study NH4 + and NO3 – absorption characteristics in pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata Poir.), as well as NH4 + and NO3 – interactions and K+ effects on NH4 + uptake. Ion absorption parameters Vmax, Km, and Cmin were calculated over a 5‐ to 7‐hour period in each of the studies. With N solution concentrations initially adjusted to 300 uM, NH4 + and NO3 – absorption was constant down to 125 and 100 uM at 18 days, and 175 and 125 uM at 35 days, respectively. As plant age increased, the maximum absorption capacity, Vmax, decreased for both NH4 + and NO3 – and was higher for NH4 + than NO3 – at 18 and 35 days. For the Michaelis constant, Km, values increased with plant age for both NH4 + and NO3 – and tended to be slightly lower (higher affinity) for NO3 – than NH4 + at both dates. Pumpkin was able to deplete solution N concentrations to 1 uM or less, regardless of N form. The presence of NO3 – in solution had no significant effect on NH4 + absorption; while i...
Depression and diabetes: unhealthy bedfellows

Associations between depression and diabetes have been described by physicians for several hundred years. Thomas Willis, an early English physician and anatomist, wrote during the mid-1600s that diabetes is caused by “sadness or long sorrow and other depressions.” In recent years, researchers have posited that there is a bidirectional link between depression and diabetes (Fig. 1).[1] Depression earlier in life has been shown to be associated with adverse health behaviors, such as lack of physical activity, smoking, and obesity.[2] Depression also has also been linked to hypothalamic-– pituitary–adrenal -axis (HPA) dysregulation, higher cortisol levels, development of centripetal obesity, lack of insulin sensitivity, higher levels of pro-inflammatory factors, and changes in autonomic nervous system homeostasis.[3,4] These adverse health behaviors and psychophysiologic changes probably explain the findings from a recent systematic review, which determined that depression in early adult years is associated with an increased risk of development of diabetes.[5]
Anomalous optical forces on a Mie-particle in a transverse Poynting vector flow

We show how a superposition of non-interfering plane waves can generate a transverse Poynting vector, which in turn leads to transverse optical forces on a fully isotropic dielectric scatterer, in contrast with conventional radiation-pressure forces.
From Hypochondria to Convalescence: Health as Chronic Critique in Nietzsche, Deleuze and Guattari

In 1886, Nietzsche wrote: ‘I am still waiting for a philosophical doctor in the extraordinary sense of the term’: a doctor who pursues not truth, but an exceptional kind of health. Nietzsche's will to health, his theory of drive organisation, and his insistence that the philosopher put himself at risk, all work together in his overall project, which consists of taking up the very role of the highly revalued physician for whom he is waiting. Deleuze and Guattari engage this same task of a revalued doctoring in the Capitalisme et Schizophrenie books, attacking the disease of oedipality and providing instructions for the deorganisation of the organism as self-cure. Offering tips on this radical treatment, they employ the figure of the hypochondriac to show how it can fail. Both Nietzsche and Deleuze and Guattari perform a revaluation of health as a condition of chronic critique, a condition that wraps itself around illness to keep itself critical.
A consideration of simple measures and organizational structure.

Abstract Organizational structure provides the context in which all other measures (either simple or complex) are generated, developed, set in place, related to each other, interpreted, and acted upon. The focus of this article is on the contextual nature of structure and its influence on organizational assessment and learning. Assessment mechanisms are part of the organization 's learning system, whereby it reflects on its actions and alters its notions of how the internal and external world work. An organization's philosophy of rationality is an important part of its structure. Notions of cause and effect and standards of desirable performance are given particular attention. The situation of community mental health centers is examined in terms of structure and environment. Hypotheses are offered regarding what constitutes a healthy organizational structure and management system.
The bystander effect exerted by tumor cells expressing the herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase (HSVtk) gene is dependent on connexin expression and cell communication via gap junctions

To elucidate the role gap junctions play in the bystander effect, we examined the cytotoxic effect of herpes simplex virus thymidine kinase (HSVtk) modified tumor cells on gap junction communication-deficient tumor cells and their connexin transfectants. Communication competent Walker 256 tumor cells engineered to express the HSVtk gene (Walker-tk+) when cocultured with N2A mouse neuroblastoma and PC12 rat pheochromocytoma cells with absent endogenous junctional conductance showed no bystander cytotoxicity. Transfection of N2A cells with the rat connexin37 gene (5Q) and PC12 cells with the human connexin43 gene rendered them susceptible to bystander cell death. Additionally, communication-deficient N2A cells transfected with the HSVtk gene failed to exert a bystander effect, whereas N2A transfectants coexpressing the connexin37 and HSVtk genes (5Qtk+ cells) exerted bystander cytotoxicity on gap junction communication-competent 5Q but not on communication-deficient N2A cells in vitro. In vivo experiments also showed tumor growth inhibition of communication-competent 5Q but not communication-incompetent N2A cells by 5Qtk+ cells. In conclusion, these results indicate that in several cellular environments the bystander effect is dependent on connexin expression and gap junctional communication between HSVtk-positive and HSVtk-negative cells.