cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Shear stress may stimulate release and action of nitric oxide in the human fetal-placental vasculature

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Our purpose was to determine the effect of perfusate flow or viscosity on release and action of nitric oxide in the human fetal-placental vasculature in vitro. STUDY DESIGN: Cotyledons from normal term placentas were perfused with Hanks' buffered saline solution gassed with 95% oxygen and 5% carbon dioxide, pH 7.4, at 37° C with a maternal flow rate of 10 ml/min. Fetal flow rate was varied from 1 to 10 ml/min at 10-minute intervals ( n = 6), and perfusion pressure was recorded. Viscosity was varied by perfusion of both circulations with Hanks' balanced salt solution containing 0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, or 10% dextran, the concentration being changed every 20 minutes and pressure recorded at fetal flow rates of 4 ( n = 4) or 1 ml/min ( n = 7). All experiments were performed in the presence or absence of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor N-nitro-l-arginine (10 −3 mol/L) in the same placentas. Data were analyzed by analysis of variance with repeated measures. RESULTS: Increasing fetal flow rate with or without N-nitro-l-arginine resulted in a significant increase in perfusion pressure ( p = 0.0011). Addition of N-nitro-l-arginine gave an overall significant increase in perfusion pressure ( p = 0.0048). At a fetal flow rate of 4 ml/min increasing dextran concentration with or without N-nitro-l-arginine gave a significant increase in perfusion pressure ( p = 0.0011), but the increase in perfusion pressure in the presence of N-nitro-l-arginine did not reach significance ( p = 0.06). At 1 ml/min increasing dextran concentration resulted in a significant increase in fetal perfusion pressure ( p = 0.001), but no significant effect on N-nitro-l-arginine was observed. CONCLUSION: Altering shear stress by increasing fetal flow rate or viscosity of the medium may increase synthesis and release of nitric oxide, which attenuates increases in perfusino pressure.
Combining visual and automated data mining for near-real-time anomaly detection and analysis in BGP

The security of Internet routing is a major concern because attacks and errors can result in data packets not reaching their intended destination and/or falling into the wrong hands. A key step in improving routing security is to analyze and understand it. In the past, we and other researchers have presented various visual-based, statistical-based, and signature-based methods of analyzing Internet routing data.In this paper, we describe an integration of visual and automated data mining methods for discovering and investigating anomalies in Internet routing. We show how these different components are combined in such a way as to complement each other, creating a very effective and useful analysis tool. In addition to performing analysis on archived data, our system is able to collect, process and visualize data in near-real-time.
Fast Frequency-domain Waveforms for Spin-Precessing Binary Inspirals

The detection and characterization of gravitational wave signals from compact binary coalescence events relies on accurate waveform templates in the frequency domain. The stationary phase approximation (SPA) can be used to compute closed-form frequency-domain waveforms for nonprecessing, quasicircular binary inspirals. However, until now, no fast frequency-domain waveforms have existed for generic, spin-precessing quasicircular compact binary inspirals. Templates for these systems have had to be computed via a discrete Fourier transform of finely sampled time-domain waveforms, which is far more computationally expensive than those constructed directly in the frequency domain, especially for those systems that are dominated by the inspiral part. There are two obstacles to deriving frequency-domain waveforms for precessing systems: (i) the spin-precession equations do not admit closed-form solutions for generic systems; (ii) the SPA fails catastrophically, i.e. in some situations, the second derivative of the signal phase vanishes, so that the direct application of the SPA predicts a divergent amplitude. Presently there is no general solution to the first problem, so we must resort to numerical integration of the spin-orbit precession equations. This is not a significant obstacle, as numerical integration on the slow precession time scale adds very little to the computational cost of generating the waveforms. Our main result is to solve the second problem, by providing an alternative to the SPA that we call the method of shifted uniform asymptotics (SUA) that cures the divergences in the SPA. The construction of frequency-domain templates using the SUA can be orders of magnitude more efficient than the time-domain ones obtained through a discrete Fourier transform. Moreover, this method is very faithful to the discrete Fourier transform, with mismatches on the order of $1{0}^{\ensuremath{-}5}$.
Normative data for number of word meanings

A corpus of 576 words and orthographically legal pseudowords was rated by 150 undergraduates to obtain a subjective estimate of the number of meanings possessed by the stimuli. The information contained in this corpus may be used to supplement current, sources of word-meaning information (e.g., total number of dictionary entries). Experimental evidence is presented that supports the reliability of the normative data.
Effect of vasopressin administration on sodium excretion and plasma phosphate concentration.

SummaryLithium administration blocks the antidiuretic effect of arginine vasopres-sin (AVP). In order to determine whether or not Li+ administration also blocks the natriuretic effect of AVP, we administered AVP at 50 mU/kg/min (“high dose”) or 50 mU/kg/hr (“low dose”) to normal and Li+treated dogs. AVP administration at both doses resulted in a significant increase in urine flow and sodium excretion in both normal and Li+-treated dogs. In addition, AVP administration resulted in a dramatic increase in plasma phosphate concentration. Studies were therefore performed in thyro-parathyroidectomized (TPTX) dogs in order to determine whether an increase in parathyroid hormone (PTH) release could account for the natriuretic effect of AVP. AVP administration to TPTX dogs also resulted in the same increase in sodium excretion and plasma phosphate concentration as in normal dogs. The hyperphosphatemia of AVP was unrelated to the vasoconstrictor-pressor effect of the hormone since it was present when blood pressure...
Nitrogen Mineralization of Lime‐Stabilized Fishwaste in Acid Soils and its Effect on Plant Growth

Fishwaste is often disposed of in landfills or the ocean, adversely affecting water quality. With its high protein content, fishwaste could instead be used as a N source for crop production. The viability of a lime-stabilized fishwaste (LSF) product as a N source was tested by determining its effects on net N mineralization, growth of bacteria, and the growth of a variety of plant species in two acidic soils. Net N mineralization and viable bacteria number were significantly increased (P < 0.001) by the addition of LSF. At the highest rate of 30 g LSF kg -1 soil, high NH 4 -N accumulation was extended to several weeks and a longer lag period before bacteria growth occurred. At such a high rate, nitrification, but not the activities of proteolytic enzymes, was severely impaired. The considerably high inactivation rate for the bacteria following the exhaustion of the available energy in the protein in the Sultan soil [half life = 4.5 ± 0.5 d (SD)] may explain why the Sultan soil had a comparatively higher net N mineralization rate than the Puyallup soil [half life = 14.7 ± 3.5 d (SD)]. At 6 g LSF kg -1 soil in a greenhouse trial, the N availability to a variety of crops was generally increased. Unless a soil is extremely acidic, using high rates of LSF can lead to undesirable soil conditions (high pH and NH 4 -N accumulation) that interfere with plant growth.
The better they are, the more they give: Trade promotions of consumer durables

Abstract The authors study trade promotions for durable goods, such as automobiles, for which manufacturers provide special incentives to dealers for exceeding specific sales targets. They develop a theoretical model of consumer, retailer, and manufacturer behavior based on observations about key aspects of the automobile market. The analysis provides important insights about the intertemporal effects of trade promotions and the effect of product durability on the promotion strategies of manufacturers. For example, manufacturers of more durable products benefit more from running trade promotions and give deeper discounts. The authors find empirical support when they test the theoretical results.
Home Range, Movements, and Activity of the Eastern Worm Snake, Carphophis Amoenus Amoenus

Movements of 10 eastern worm snakes (Carphophis amoenus amoenus) were studied using radioisotope tagging and tracing techniques. The study was conducted at Robinson Forest, Breathitt County, Kentucky, from early May to late October 1966. Snakes were tagged subcutaneously, using a hypodermic needle and plunger apparatus, with 50—80 μc Cp60 alloy wire tags. Detection apparatus consisted of a Victoreen model 489 Thyac II survey meter equipped with earphones, shoulder strap, and scintillation probe mounted at one end of a 3—m tubular aluminum pole. Each snake was located 46 to 89 times. Home ranges were calculated using the minimum area method and averaged 253 m2 (range, 23—486 m2). The longest known movement during a 24 hr period was 45 m (in 14 hr 30 min). Most movements were initiated in late afternoon and early evening. Most periods of activity were of less than 12 hr duration. Periods of inactivity ranged from a few minutes to over 14 days. Snakes displaced distances of 150, 400, and 800 m from where captured exhibited no homing ability.
CANONICAL CORRELATION ANALYSIS AS A GENERAL LINEAR MODEL: AN EFFECTIVE INSTRUCTIONAL TOOL '

Sz,,nmay.-This article demonstrates in a concrete fashion that canonical correlation analysis subsumes all other least-square statistical methods and that, because ir is the general linear model, it can be an effecrive instructional tool for teaching research methodology. The use of this general linear model framework illustrates that all leastsquare procedures involve the applicarion of weights to derive synthetic scores which are the focus of a1 analyses and that all least-square procedures are correlational and therefore yield a measure of effect size to aid in the interpretation of results. Statistical analyses performed with a familiar statistical package, SPSS, on a small heuristic data set is used in the demonstration of various concepts. Thirty years ago, Cohen (1968) argued that analysis of variance is a special instance of multiple regression analysis and that both are subsumed under the general hear model. Knapp (1978) extended Cohen's arguments further by providmg mathematical proofs that canonical correlation analysis (CCA), not multiple regression analysis, is the most general hear model that subsumes all other least-square procedures. Similarly, Fornell (1978, p. 168) stated that "multiple regression, MANOVA and ANOVA, and multiple discriminant analysis can all be shown to be special cases of canonical analysis." Even though this is not a new argument, many researchers today std consider different analytical methods as techniques that are conceptually dissirnilar. The purpose of the present article is twofold: to demonstrate using a heuristic data set that CCA subsumes all other least-square methods and because it is the general hear model, it can be uthzed effectively as an instructional tool for teaching research methodology. The intended auchence for this paper would be readers with some knowledge of the various analytic methods such as canonical correlation analysis, analysis of variance, and multiple regression. This paper attempts to integrate various analytical concepts and procedures under a unifying system via the use of concrete heuristic examples. Teaching univariate and multivariate statistics using the general hear model allows students to integrate statistical concepts more rapidly; they have a single framework that holds true for each analysis. Within the general hear model framework, all analyses are understood to be correlational and
A Poincaré lemma for connection forms

Denote by P the space of piecewise smooth curves in Rn beginning at the origin. A path 2-form is a function h on P such that for each element σ in P, h(σ) is a 2-form at the endpoint of σ with values in a Lie algebra G. For example, if A is a smooth G valued connection form on Rn with curvature F and parallel translation operator P(σ) then the equation LA(σ) = P(σ)−1 F(σ(1)) P(σ) defines LA as a path 2-form. A necessary and sufficient condition is given to characterize those path 2-forms which arise in this way. By way of application it is shown that the Birula-Mandelstam generalization of Maxwell's equations to nonabelian gauge fields is equivalent to the Yang-Mills equation.
Infrared spectrum and vibrational assignments for tetrafluoroethylene oxide

Abstract The i.r. spectrum of gaseous tetrafluoroethylene oxide has been investigated over the 4000-200 cm −1 region, and the fifteen vibrational fundamentals assigned. They are: ( a 1 ) 1610, 1161, 792, 501, 318; ( a 2 ) ~1300, 528, ~190; ( b 1 ) 1128, 696, 633 and 455; ( b 2 ) 1282, 557 and ~180 cm −1 . To obtain this assignment it has been necessary to assume a close parallel between the vibrational spectrum of the oxide and that of the more thoroughly studied 1,1,2,2-tetrafluoro cyclo propane.
Dipyridamole technetium 99m sestamibi myocardial tomography as an independent predictor of cardiac event-free survival after acute ischemic events

A total of 137 consecutive patients with recent uncomplicated myocardial infarction (n=31) or unstable angina (n=106) were studied to determine the relative prognostic value of predischarge clinical risk stratification and intravenous dipyridamole stress sestamibi (MIBI) myocardial tomography in patients unable to exercise maximally after an acute ischemic coronary event. Patients were followed up after the index study for 10±5 months (range 1 to 23 months) to ascertain cardiac events that occurred in 20 patients (15%): nonfatal myocardial infarction (n=5) or cardiac death (n=15). Cardiac event rates were 35% in patients with a recent myocardial infarction and 8% in the group with unstable angina (p<0.001). Patients with these cardiac events had more frequent abnormal MIBI study results, fixed defects, and reversible plus fixed (combined) defects (allp<0.05). The univariate relative risk of death or myocardial infarction associated with an abnormal MIBI study was 6.0 (95% confidence limits 0.8 to 44.7). Multivariate stepwise logistic regression models identified an abnormal MIBI study and either fixed or reversible MIBI defects as being predictive of death or myocardial infarction (allp<0.05). The Mantel-Haentzel 1-year cardiac event-free survival rate was excellent in 27 patients with a normal MIBI single-photon computed emission tomographic scan (100%) but significantly reduced in the 110 patients with an abnormal MIBI study (80%;p<0.05 vs normal subjects). The presence of combined MIBI defects was associated with the poorest event-free survival rate (66%; difference not significant vs fixed or reversible defects only). We conclude that predischarge dipyridamole MIBI tomography provided independent prognostic information in this population of patients who were unable to exercise after a recent acute ischemic coronary event.
Children Exposed to Violence at School: An Evidence-based Intervention Agenda for the “Real” Bullying Problem

The purpose of this article is to advance the field of children exposed to violence by proposing an agenda for evidence-based school bullying prevention and intervention research and practice. It is argued that school bullying is a complex ecological problem that requires an innovative model to address it effectively. By critically reviewing the research literature, the real bullying problem is explained, a protective peer ecology framework of bullying prevention and intervention is presented, and an evidence-based practice model of bullying intervention is detailed.
A path probability model for sister-chromatid exhanges induced by alkylating agents

A path probability model is described for evaluation of sister-chromatid exchanges (SCEs) induced by alkylating agents following treatment of G1 cells at the beginning of the first or second cycles of BrdUrd incorporation, or during G1 corresponding to an exact cell-cycle interval preceding BrdUrd incorporation. Algebraic expressions are derived for calculations of expected induced SCE frequencies (over baseline levels) in second and third (reciprocal and nonreciprocal SCEs) division cells for the described treatment protocols. The derivations take into consideration: p, the probability of a specific lesion inducing an SCE; rn, the extent of repair within the nth post-treatment cycle; and X, the number of lesions induced. Expressions are also derived for expected ratios of single: twin exchanges in endoreduplicated or tetraploid cells.
Intraocular Lenses-Current Status

An attempt is made to depolarize current positions regarding intraocular implant lens surgery by presenting a reasonable list of advantages and disadvantages of the procedure. A current position on this controversial subject is presented and is based on currently available knowledge. Although this is a personal view, it is hoped that a middle ground can be created which would be acceptable to advocates and opponents of lens implant surgery.
Maternal History of Osteoporosis and Femur Geometry

Most studies that have examined the role of skeletal factors in the relationship between an individual’s family history of fracture or osteoporosis and their fracture risk have focused on bone density. In this study, we expanded the scope of skeletal factors to include geometric properties (subperiosteal width, section modulus, cortical thickness, and buckling ratio) in addition to areal bone mineral density (BMD). We compared these skeletal factors at the femur neck and shaft by self-reported maternal history of osteoporosis (OP HX) from 5334 non-Hispanic whites, ages ≥20 years in the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III, 1988–94). A total of 213 men and 315 women reported a positive OP HX (e.g., their biological mother had sustained a hip fracture after age 50 years or had a physician’s diagnosis of osteoporosis). Differences in bone density and geometry by OP HX were examined after adjusting for potential confounding variables. Several bone parameters differed significantly by OP HX in both sexes at the femur neck, but none differed at the femur shaft. At the neck, those with a positive OP HX had values that differed by ~3% to 4% (lower for BMD, bone mineral content (BMC), cross-sectional area, and cortical thickness; higher for buckling ratios) from those with a negative OP HX (P < 0.05). The magnitude of these relationships was similar in both sexes, but differences were greater in younger versus older adults. In conclusion, both men and women with a positive maternal history of osteoporosis may be at greater risk of femur neck fracture owing to thinner cortices and lower BMC, which in turn results in potentially greater cortical instability (buckling ratio) at this skeletal site.
Advantages and disadvantages of electronic data interchange: an industry perspective

Abstract This study is designed to explore, from discussions with experts, the perceived advantages and disadvantages of EDI. By identifying both, some conclusions may be drawn as to why EDI's growth is booming in some firms, while many companies refuse to implement it. Using the Delphi Technique, experts assisted us in gaining a greater understanding of the pro's and con's of EDI, and allowed us to identify the top ten associated with EDI's usage. The advantages complement common business strategies while the disadvantages identified common shortcomings.
The asymmetric impact of trade openness on output volatility

Studies show that the relationship between openness and output volatility is theoretically ambiguous, but most of these studies provide an empirical estimation for this relationship. This paper investigates the impact of trade openness on output volatility, and how this impact may be affected by the country’s level of development. We use a panel dataset for 33 countries for the years of 1980 through 2009. A standard deviation of quarterly real GDP over a 5-year span is used as the dependent variable. Controlling for the country and period-specific effects, the main results are as follows: trade openness increases the output volatility. And, the output volatility of countries with a higher level of development is less affected by trade openness.
FOUR-ELECTRON REDUCTION OF DIAZO COMPOUNDS AT A SINGLE TUNGSTEN METAL CENTER : A THEORETICAL STUDY OF THE MECHANISM

A possible mechanism for the unprecedented one-metal reduction of diazobenzene by the [W(OC6HPh3-η6-C6H5)(OAr)(PMe2Ph)] (OAr = 2,3,5,6-tetraphenyloxide) complex was characterized by hybrid Becke3LYP DFT calculations on the model system [W(OH)2(C6H6)(Ph3)]+ N2H2. The model reaction is shown to be strongly exothermic, and takes place via a multistep process with moderate activation energy barriers. We discuss how this specific set of ancillary ligands permits the reaction to occur on a one-metal system in place of the more usual two-metal systems.
Persistence of Diquat in the aquatic environment

Abstract Diquat (a commonly-used aquatic herbicide) added to a weed-infested simulated lake impoundment was sorbed initially by the weeds. Following rapid weedkill, profuse proliferation of microorganisms occurred, promoting degradation of the herbicide sorbed on the decomposing weeds. Within 22 days, Diquat was degraded extensively to water-soluble products (32%) and only minimal sediment adsorption occurred (19%). In weed-free sediment-water incubation systems. Diquat in water was adsorbed rapidly by Lakes Mendota and Tomahawk sediments, and the major portion of the herbicide persisted in its intact form throughout the experiment (up to 180 days). Slow microbial degradation occurred in the Lake Mendota system, as indicated by 14 CO 2 evolution which was favored by aerobic conditions and a small volume of overlying water. Microbial degradation in the Lake Tomahawk system was negligible.
Development of versatile gene-based SNP assays in maize ( Zea mays L.)

A large number of maize single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) candidate sequences have been generated and deposited in public databases. However, very little work has been done to date to comprehensively characterize those SNPs and identify a set of markers, which potentially would have high impact in molecular genetics research and breeding programs. Here we describe a multi-step process to identify highly polymorphic gene-based SNPs among ~130,000 public markers. A set of 695 highly polymorphic SNPs (minor allele frequency value >0.3), identified within exons, 5′ and 3′ untranslated regions of genes, were converted into four of the most popular high-throughput genotyping assays that include Illumina’s GoldenGate and Infinium chemistries, Life Technologies’ TaqMan assay and KBioSciences’ KASPar assay. The term “versatile” was applied to 162 gene-based SNPs that were successfully converted into all four chemistries and had perfect genotypic clustering patterns. This subset of discovered versatile SNP markers represents a universal tool for application in various molecular genetics and breeding projects in maize, where genotyping is based on one of the four above-mentioned chemistries. This study demonstrated that despite the availability of millions of discovered SNPs in maize, only a very small portion of those polymorphisms could be utilized for the development of robust, versatile assays, and has real practical value in marker-assisted selection.
The Isotope Effect in the Spectrum of Silicon Nitride

RESULTS of a quantum theory analysis of the SiN bands and of the vibrational isotope effect in these bands were given in an earlier letter to NATURE (March 22, 1924) and in a paper presented at a meeting of the American Physical Society (cf. Phys. Rev. 23, 554, 1924). It is now found that the equations given in the latter for these bands are incorrect. This is due to a wrong assignment of vibrational quantum numbers, corresponding to what may be described as an insidious violation of the combination principle. With the data first used, this violation was not apparent, but new data disclose systematic, although rather small, deviations. A new and, this time, correct assignment of quantum numbers has now been made. The following equation holds for the position of the null-lines of the Si28N bands (n = vibrational quantum number of the initial, n that of the final state of the molecule): v = 24234.2 + 1016.30n 17.77n2 + 0.41n3 0.0049n4 1145.00n + 6.570n2. The null-lines, it should be stated, can for many of the bands be measured directly on the plates At the low temperature of the active nitrogen used in generating the bands, the null-line appears as a conspicuous hole in the band structure, on the low- frequency side of the head.
The dynamics of biologically available mercury in a small estuary

Abstract Total mercury concentrations in shrimp (Palaemon debilis) and polychaetes (Nereis succinea) from Ala Wai Canal, a small Hawaiian estuary, fluctuated over nearly two orders of magnitude during 1973–1974. A simulation of mercury levels in shrimp from the estuary, based upon a mathematical model of 203Hg-HgCl2 exchange in this species, showed that mercury concentrations in P. debilis were never at steady state during the sampling period. Shrimp appeared to rapidly concentrate solute mercury which periodically entered the estuary in storm runoff. Between rainstorms little of the mercury remaining in the estuary (primarily in sediment-bound form) appeared to be available to either the deposit-feeding shrimp or the worm. Because net loss of mercury from both species was slow relative to the rate of uptake, long periods of time were necessary to lose the mercury accumulated during the short rainstorms.
Fiscal Objectives in the Post IMF Program World: The Case of Albania

The paper discusses the challenges facing Albania's fiscal policy following the graduation from the IMF programs. It argues that Albania's public debt remains too high and needs to be reduced. Strengthening the fiscal framework, including by introducing a numerical fiscal rule, could help achieve this objective. The paper discusses two alternative rules, with the objective of achieving a gradual decline in the public debt ratio. One rule would limit nominal expenditure growth, with a correction mechanism to guard against revenue slippages and other shocks. An alternative rule would limit the growth in nominal public debt.
Relationships between nerves and myofibroblasts during cutaneous wound healing in the developing rat

Contraction of skin excision wounds is affected by age and the presence of peripheral nerves. The present study examined relationships between peripheral innervation, wound contractile cells, and rate of wound closure to determine whether these are altered during development. Full-thickness 4-mm-diameter circular flaps were excised from the interscapular skin of rats on postnatal day (PND) 5, PND 12, or PND 60. Wounds of PND 5 and PND 12 rats contracted 45% between post-wound days (WD) 3 and 5 and more slowly thereafter, with a scar 9–14% of the original wound size by WD 21. In contrast, PND 60 wounds contracted only 22% between WD 3 and 5, and the residual scar at WD 21 was 40% of the original wound size. In younger rats, α-smooth muscle actin-immunoreactive myofibroblasts first appeared on WD 2 and attained maximum density at WD 5. Innervation, as assessed by protein gene product 9.5 immunoreactivity, appeared by WD 3 and increased rapidly through WD 7 in younger rats. In PND 60 wounds, myofibroblasts did not appear until WD 5 and did not attain a maximum until day 10. Nerve ingrowth was not significant until WD 10 and was depressed relative to younger rats throughout the healing phase. Wound nerves were predominantly immunoreactive to calcitonin gene-related peptide, and synaptophysin-immunostaining revealed close associations between varicosities and myofibroblasts. These findings suggest that wound myofibroblasts may be a target of peripheral nerves, and delayed wound closure in mature rats is associated with deficiencies in both myofibroblasts and innervation.
Intolerance of uncertainty and personality: Experiential permeability is associated with difficulties tolerating uncertainty

Abstract Intolerance of uncertainty (IU) is an individual difference variable that is conceptualised as originating as the result of personality, particularly neuroticism. In the present study, we provided the first known examination as to whether IU is associated with maladaptive levels of openness to experience, labelled experiential permeability, using a sample of community adults ( N = 330). As predicted, IU was associated with experiential permeability and this association remained intact while controlling for other relevant personality dimensions (openness to experience, neuroticism, and extraversion). Results indicated that IU shared especially robust relations with two-of-the-four facets of experiential permeability (rigidity and superficial). These results indicate that experiential permeability can advance our understanding of IU beyond other personality dimensions.
The STEP Integration Information Architecture

Traditionally, when the term ‘integration’ is used to refer to the interoperability of disparate, heterogeneous computer systems, it means the ability to exchange digital data between the systems. For the more sophisticated systems designers, ‘integration’ may mean shared, distributed databases or a federated database system. Within the development of the STandard for the Exchange of Product model data (STEP — ISO 10303), ‘integration’ refers to an information architecture composed of conceptual constructs that is independent of implementation considerations.
Maximum entropy method spectral estimation applied to power cable diagnostics via cepstrum processing

Abstract The Cepstrum processing method has been used on power cables (1, 2) for determining regions of damage. The method consists of: (1) observing the spectrum of an original broad band signal source, (2) introducing the signal into the cable, (3) computing the change in the observed spectrum (as a result of echos from regions of cable non-uniformity) when the signal is injected into the cable, and finally (4) computing the power-spectrum of the change in observed spectrum. A limitation of this technique is the use of band-limiting spectrum analyzers. Their limited bandwidth reduces range resolution estimation when used with the Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) technique. The maximum entropy method (MEM) is a more useful spectral estimator for this measurement technique. Examples are presented which show a comparison of the FFT and MEM techniques applied to practical cables.
THE DIATOMS OF TIMPANOGOS CAVE NATIONAL MONUMENT, UTAH

A B S T R A C T The diatom flora of the cavern system of Timpanogos Cave National Monument was in- vestigated. Diatoms were found throughout the cave system and were distributed according to moisture and natural openings. Twenty-six species were identified and described, including eight not previously collected from caves and four new records for the state of Utah. permanent lighting system was established by 1925, and the cave system became an important local attraction. Soon after the lighting system was established, it was noted that several of the important natural formations in the caves began to be discolored. In addition, the areas immediately around the lights began to support thick growths of moss gameto- phytes. The discoloration of certain formations due to moss and algae apparently has become in- tensified during the past few years. As a result of these problems, we began an investigation of several prominent cave formations and other lo- calities in the cave system in order to determine what was growing there and to suggest possible control measures. The present paper treats the diatom species in the Timpanogos Cavern system.
Power system model validation study using wide-area frequency data

This paper uses wide-area monitoring system (WAMS) recordings of dynamic events to assess the validity of large-scale time-domain stability simulations. In 2003 there were four power system monitors installed in the Entergy transmission network ranging from Arkansas to New Orleans. We compared real and simulated measurements for a small set of events which had known causes. We applied an event location algorithm to the real and simulated frequency measurements. The actual frequency change resulting from a loss of generation event is about twice as large as that predicted by the model. We also observed that the simulation model was more oscillatory than the actual system.
Collateral efficacy in drug discovery: taking advantage of the good (allosteric) nature of 7TM receptors.

Seven-transmembrane receptors are prototypic allosteric proteins with the ability to adopt numerous conformations, many of which interact with cellular partners to initiate cellular biochemical processes. Defining efficacy as the ability of ligands to stabilize some of these conformations (which, in turn, possess physiological activity) presents a wider definition of efficacy beyond simple integrated cellular response; numerous or ‘pluridimensional' efficacies are required to describe ligands. Specifically, some agonists might only partially activate the library of potential signaling systems in a cell or some antagonists might actively induce receptor internalization without activation. This article reviews data to demonstrate that there is no longer support for a linear view of efficacy whereby a single receptor activation state triggers all possible receptor interactions with a cell. Instead, a view of collateral efficacy, in which ligands can produce portions of the possible behaviors of receptors, is presented. Concepts related to the molecular mechanism for this effect (discussed in the literature as ‘stimulus trafficking', ‘biased agonism' or ‘functional selectivity') and discussion of the possible therapeutic implications of this mechanism are presented.
Human Augmenter of Liver Regeneration: Probing the Catalytic Mechanism of a Flavin-Dependent Sulfhydryl Oxidase

Augmenter of liver regeneration is a member of the ERV family of small flavin-dependent sulfhydryl oxidases that contain a redox-active CxxC disulfide bond in redox communication with the isoalloxazine ring of bound FAD. These enzymes catalyze the oxidation of thiol substrates with the reduction of molecular oxygen to hydrogen peroxide. This work studies the catalytic mechanism of the short, cytokine form of augmenter of liver regeneration (sfALR) using model thiol substrates of the enzyme. The redox potential of the proximal disulfide in sfALR was found to be approximately 57 mV more reducing than the flavin chromophore, in agreement with titration experiments. Rapid reaction studies show that dithiothreitol (DTT) generates a transient mixed disulfide intermediate with sfALR signaled by a weak charge-transfer interaction between the thiolate of C145 and the oxidized flavin. The subsequent transfer of reducing equivalents to the flavin ring is relatively slow, with a limiting apparent rate constant of 12....
The specific binding of the platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor antagonist WEB 2086 and the benzodiazepine flunitrazepam to rat hepatocytes

Thieno-triazolodiazepines WEB 2086 and BN 50739 have been described as the potent PAF receptor antagonists. Binding of radiolabeled [3H]WEB 2086 has been widely employed to characterize PAF receptors in different cells. In a search for a PAF receptor in isolated rat hepatocytes, we discovered that the binding of [3H]WEB to rat hepatocytes was highly specific but had a relatively low affinity with a Kd of 113 nM and Bmax of 0.65 pmol/106 cells in freshly isolated cell suspension and Kd of 1.65 μM and Bmax of 2.0 pmol/plate in cultured hepatocytes. No consistent specific binding of [3H]PAF itself was found in the same cell preparations. The binding of [3H]flunitrazepam in the presence of the peripheral type of benzodiazepine receptor antagonist Ro 5-4864 was saturated and exhibited a Ki of 3.8 nM and Bmax of 3.5 pmol/plate. The central type of benzodiazepine receptor antagonist clonazepam also competed for the [3H]flunitrazepam binding, however with a much lower affinity. Various antagonists inhibited the binding of [3H]WEB 2086 with a rank order BN 50739⪢Ro 5-4864≥clonazepam. Interestingly, bicuculline, a specific antagonist of GABA(A) recognition sites, also significantly reduced the binding of [3H]WEB 2086. The binding of [3H]flunitrazepam was inhibited with a rank potency BN 50739⪢WEB 2086. Taken together, these findings suggest that the specific binding of PAF receptor antagonists WEB 2086 and BN 50739 in rat hepatocytes does not involve PAF receptors and occurs via peripheral benzodiazepine and, possibly GABA(A) receptor sites.
Drive-Through Medicine: A Novel Proposal for Rapid Evaluation of Patients During an Influenza Pandemic

Study objective During a pandemic, emergency departments (EDs) may be overwhelmed by an increase in patient visits and will foster an environment in which cross-infection can occur. We developed and tested a novel drive-through model to rapidly evaluate patients while they remain in or adjacent to their vehicles. The patient's automobile would provide a social distancing strategy to mitigate the person-to-person spread of infectious diseases. Methods We conducted a full-scale exercise to test the feasibility of a drive-through influenza clinic and measure throughput times of simulated patients and carbon monoxide levels of staff. We also assessed the disposition decisions of the physicians who participated in the exercise. Charts of 38 patients with influenza-like illness who were treated in the Stanford Hospital ED during the initial H1N1 outbreak in April 2009 were used to create 38 patient scenarios for the drive-through influenza clinic. Results The total median length of stay was 26 minutes. During the exercise, physicians were able to identify those patients who were admitted and discharged during the real ED visit with 100% accuracy (95% confidence interval 91% to 100%). There were no significant increases of carboxyhemoglobin in participants tested. Conclusion The drive-through model is a feasible alternative to a traditional walk-in ED or clinic and is associated with rapid throughput times. It provides a social distancing strategy, using the patient's vehicle as an isolation compartment to mitigate person-to-person spread of infectious diseases.
Evaluation of Processing and Mechanical Parameters of Dicyclopentadiene-Based Gumstocks

Because of preliminary research that indicates composite solid propellants, featuring polymerized dicyclopentadiene as the binder, offer potential advantages over commonplace binders, polymerized dicyclopentadiene gumstock samples were evaluated to support development of their use as a composite solid-propellant binder. This was done through an investigation of processing behavior and mechanical characteristics. Because of dicyclopentadiene’s rapid and highly exothermic polymerization process, pot life experimentation was conducted to determine the effectiveness of bulk-mixture temperature and inhibitor concentration at retarding dicyclopentadiene’s polymerization reaction. Gelling agents were examined as a possible way to tailor dicyclopentadiene’s rheological characteristics as a potential means of correcting observed quality issues, such as binder loss and particle separation. Mechanical characteristics, such as surface hardness and stress–strain parameters, were investigated through the testing of pol...
Dietary modulation of the effects of exposure to 56Fe particles

On exploratory missions to other planets, astronauts will be exposed to galactic cosmic rays composed of protons and heavy particles, such as 56Fe. Long-term exposure to these particles can cause cancer. However, there are significant uncertainties in the risk estimates for the probability of developing heavy particle-induced cancer, and in the amount of shielding needed to provide an adequate level of radiation protection. The results of this preliminary study, using a ground-based model for exposure to cosmic rays, show reduced tumorigenesis in rats maintained on diets containing blueberry or strawberry extract prior to exposure to 56Fe particles. Because the study was not initially designed to evaluate tumorigenesis following exposure to 56Fe particles, additional research is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of strawberry and blueberry supplementation. However, the preliminary results presented in this study suggest that diets containing antioxidant phytochemicals can provide additional radiation protection on interplanetary voyages.
Magic semi-joins

Abstract We study the properties of the magic semi-join, a new algebraic operator. In essence, a magic semi-join is the composition of a semi-join and a transitive closure. We present a theory for magic semi-joins that mirrors the theory for semi-joins; in particular, we define equivalence transformations of algebraic formulas using magic semi-joins, and we introduce the notion of full reducer program in this framework. The application of magic semi-joins is in the efficient evaluation of recursive DATALOG queries in centralized and in distributed databases.
FPGA Cluster Computing in the ETA Radio Telescope

Array-based, direct-sampling radio telescopes have computational and communication requirements unsuited to conventional computer and cluster architectures. Synchronization must be strictly maintained across a large number of parallel data streams, from A/D conversion, through operations such as beamforming, to dataset recording. FPGAs supporting multi-gigabit serial I/O are ideally suited to this application. We describe a recently-constructed radio telescope called ETA having all-sky observing capability for detecting low frequency pulses from transient events such as gamma ray bursts and exploding primordial black holes. Signals from 24 dipole antennas are processed by a tiered arrangement of 28 commercial FPGA boards and 4 PCs with FPGA-based data acquisition cards, connected with custom I/O adapter boards supporting InfiniBand and LVDS physical links. ETA is designed for unattended operation, allowing configuration and recording to be controlled remotely.
Pharmaceutical Uses of Near-Infrared Spectroscopy

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has been used extensively in the food and agricultural industries for the past twenty years. Recent technological advances have made NIRS an attractive analytical ...
Ballot Numbers, Alternating Products, and the Erdős-Heilbronn Conjecture

Let A be a subset of an abelian group. Let hA denote the set of all sums of h elements of A with repetitions allowed, and let h^A denote the set of all sums of h distinct elements of A, that is, all sums of the form a 1 + … + a h, where a 1, …, a h ∈ A and a i ≠ a j for i ≠ j.
The Effect of Synthetic Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Factor on Plasma LH Levels in Pituitary Disease

ABSTRACT Synthetic luteinizing hormone-releasing factor was administered intravenously in a dose of 150 μg to 15 normal subjects, 24 subjects with pituitary tumors, 5 subjects with Sheehan's syndrome and 4 subjects with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism to evaluate pituitary secretory reserve for LH. In normals plasma LH rose in all individuals from a mean level of 6.4 mIU/ml (range 3.7–10) to a mean level of 55 mIU/ml (range 16–230). In 5 subjects with pituitary tumors who maintained normal gonadotropin secretion, plasma LH levels following LRF rose normally in 4 indicating normal secretory reserve in most subjects. In all subjects with Sheehan's syndrome and idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and in 17 of 19 subjects with a pituitary tumor who had reduced gonadotropin secretion plasma LH levels following LRF did not rise or rose subnormally. These data suggest that decreased responsiveness to LRF was the cause of hypogonadotropism in these subjects. In 2 subjects with hypogonadotropism seco...
Chain end analysis of bisphenol A polysulfone and its relation to molecular weight

The preparation of amine-terminated polysulfone by step polymerization of the monomers bisphenol A and dichlorodiphenyl sulfone in the presence of end-capping reagent 4-aminophenol was investigated. A persistent problem with end-capping strategy as applied to step polymerization is the presence of end groups other than those introduced by the end-capping reagent. These unintended end groups, which can persist in the polymer product even when 100% of the end-capping reagent has reacted, are associated with a proportionate decrease in polymer chain length. This situation renders quantitative analysis of a single type of end group invalid as a method for molecular weight determination. The presence of unintended end groups does not appear to correlate with a particular set of reaction conditions; unintended end groups were found to occur in polymerizations conducted under strong base conditions (NaOH), under weak base conditions (K2CO3), and with a wide range of monomer feed ratios. A scheme for unambiguous quantification of chain ends and molecular weight for end-capped polysulfone is described. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci A: Polym Chem 36: 1309–1316, 1998
Health-related quality of life after open-heart surgery.

Objectives To determine health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in 1-year-old infants with congenital heart disease (CHD), to follow-up with these children at age 4 years, and to examine predictors of HRQoL. Study design Parents of 144 infants who had undergone cardiopulmonary bypass surgery for CHD before age 6 months were prospectively included in this cohort study. Parents completed a standardized questionnaire on child HRQoL at 1 year and 4 years of age; medical data were extracted from the patients' hospital records. Results Parents reported a significant reduction of the children's physical functioning compared with healthy controls at age 1 year. At age 4 years, children with CHD had poorer cognitive functioning but better social functioning compared with healthy controls. Lower HRQoL at age 4 years was not significantly predicted by univentricular or biventricular CHD but was predicted by the presence of an underlying genetic defect, tube feeding at 1 year, and lower HRQoL at 1 year. Conclusion This study shows that HRQoL of infants and preschool-age children with CHD is impaired in physical and cognitive dimensions. Children with lower overall HRQoL at age 1 year, an underlying genetic defect, and tube feeding need to be monitored carefully to provide appropriate and timely interventions.
The Impact of Role Stressors on Job Stress, Job Satisfaction, and Organizational Commitment among Private Prison Staff

Work can be stressful. The most common work-related stressors are the role stressors, which include role conflict, role ambiguity, role overload, and dangerousness. All have received attention in the correctional job stress literature. The vast majority of this research has examined the impact of these role stressors on job stress and job satisfaction. Little, if any, research has examined the impact of these stressors on correctional staffs' organizational commitment. Moreover, despite a growing body of literature, the influence of role stressors on private prison staff has rarely been examined. In filling this research void, the following study examines the impact of role stressors on job stress, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment among staff at a Midwestern private prison. Ordinary least squares (OLS) regression models showed that all four role stressors had statistically significant effects on job stress. Role conflict, role ambiguity, and role overload each had a significant impact on job satisfaction, while role conflict and role ambiguity had significant effects on the organizational commitment of private prison staff. This article concludes with the implications of these findings for correctional research and practice.