cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Interaction of alveolar macrophages with Nocardia asteroides: immunological enhancement of phagocytosis, phagosome-lysosome fusion, and microbicidal activity.

Abstract Normal and specifically activated rabbit alveolar macrophages were infected in vitro with Nocardia asteroides GUH-2. In the presence of serum from normal rabbits, no significant differences were noted between normal and activated alveolar macrophages with respect to phagocytosis, incidence of phagosomelysosome fusion, or nocardicidal activity. However, all of these macrophage functions were enhanced by various immunological components. Serum from immunized rabbits enhanced phagocytosis of nocardial cells by activated macrophages, and there was an additional increase in phagocytosis observed when alveolar lining material was present. Complement had no effect on the ability of the macrophages to phagocytize nocardial cells. The greatest percentage of organisms phagocytized was observed when specifically primed lymph node cells, alveolar lining material, and serum from immunized rabbits were present in the incubation medium. N. asteroides GUH-2 inhibited phagosome-lysosome fusion in normal macrophages in the presence of serum from normal rabbits. However, addition of serum from immunized rabbits or the addition of specifically primed lymphocytes increased the amount of phagosome-lysosome fusion, whereas complement had no effect on this fusion process. Nocardial viability was not reduced when either normal or activated macrophages were infected with bacteria in the presence of normal serum, immune serum, or alveolar lining material. However, specifically activated macrophages incubated with primed lymph node cells obtained from immunized rabbits were able to both decrease the number of viable organisms recovered and to increase the incidence and extent of bacterial cell damage. The greatest number of organisms were killed by specifically activated macrophages when the bacterial cells were incubated with primed lymph node cells suspended in immune serum and alveolar lining material. These results indicate that activated macrophages alone are not sufficient to kill ingested N. asteroides GUH-2 and that specifically primed lymphocytes are important in host resistance to nocardial infections.
Antibodies to SPARC inhibit albumin binding to SPARC, gp60, and microvascular endothelium

Albumin, through its binding to the endothelial glycocalyx, functions as a major determinant of capillary permeability and as a carrier for various small molecules in its transcytosis across continuous endothelium via plasma-lemmal vesicles. Several albumin-binding proteins (ABP) have been identified: three membrane-associated ABP, which we call gp60, gp30, and gp18, and one secreted protein, acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC). In this study, we used antiserum raised against bovine SPARC (BON) to investigate the possible interrelationships among ABP to better understand their role in binding and transcytosis. BON not only interacted with SPARC secreted by cultured endothelium but also recognized gp60 in lysates of cultured rat, human, and bovine endothelial cells. Purified SPARC inhibited BON interaction with gp60. BON immunoglobulin (Ig)G specifically inhibited albumin binding to both SPARC and gp60 extracts. This effect was eliminated by preabsorption of BON to immobilized SPARC. BON also significantly inhibited albumin binding to cultured microvascular endothelial cells via its interaction with gp60. Anti-SPARC peptide sera were also tested, and one serum raised against a peptide encompassing an NH2-terminal region of SPARC recognized both SPARC and gp60 but did not inhibit albumin binding; gp30 and gp18 were not recognized by any of these anti-SPARC antibodies. These results suggest that SPARC and gp60 are functionally and immunologically related ABP that may share a common albumin-binding domain. gp60 appears to be the major mediator of albumin binding to microvascular endothelium.
Mycotoxicosis Produced in Swine by Cultural Products of an Isolate of Aspergillus ochraceus II. Clinicopathologic Changes

Rice culture of a toxigenic strain of Aspergillus ochraceus was fed at a concentration of 25% to weanling pigs for 10 days. The clinicopathological abnormalities reflected renal damage. Activities of lactic dehydrogenase, glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase and isocitrate dehydrogenase were increased in the urine but not in the serum. Serum concentrations of urea nitrogen and creatinine were high. Cellular and granular casts, blood, protein, and glucose were in the urine of pigs fed toxic diet. Serum concentrations of K+, Na+ and Cl- were unchanged, but concentrations of these electrolytes were reduced in the urine.
Keratinocyte growth factor enhances early gut adaptation in a rat model of short bowel syndrome.

Objective— To evaluate the effects of keratinocyte growth factor (KGF) on intestinal adaptation after resection of 85% of the small intestine and consider its potential application in short bowel syndrome (SBS). Study Design— Experimental study using a known model of SBS. Animal Population— Thirty male Sprague Dawley rats. Methods— Four groups of animals were designated. Two groups underwent 85% resection of the small intestine, while the other two groups were sham-operated, undergoing transection and reanastomosis. Resected and sham-operated groups then received either 3 mg/kg KGF or vehicle subcutaneously daily for 3 days. Gut adaptation was evaluated by measurements of mucosal cellularity and biochemical activity in duodenal, jejunal, and ileal segments. Results— Significant small intestinal growth after bowel resection alone was confirmed in resected versus sham-operated rats. KGF further augmented this growth in the resected animals. Mucosal wet weight of the small intestine increased with resection and was further increased (by 20% or more) with KGF administration. Mucosal thickness, villus length, and crypt depth exhibited similar patterns of response. The KGF-induced increase in mucosal morphology was accompanied by increased mucosal DNA and protein content, followed by a trend toward increased mucosal enzyme activity. Histology demonstrated an increase in goblet cells in KGF-treated animals. In situ hybridization analysis demonstrated that KGF markedly increased mucosal expression of intestinal trefoil protein (ITF) mRNA. Conclusions— KGF enhances gut growth, differentiation, and gene regulation during adaptation in rat small intestine after massive resection. Clinical Relevance— KGF may be beneficial in the management of veterinary and human patients undergoing massive intestinal resection.
Evolutionary origins and ecological consequences of endophyte symbiosis with grasses.

Abstract: Over the past 20 yr much has been learned about a unique symbiotic interaction between fungal endophytes and grasses. The fungi (Clavicipitaceae, Ascomycota) grow intercellularly and systemically in aboveground plant parts. Vertically transmitted asexual endophytes forming asymptomatic infections of cool‐season grasses have been repeatedly derived from sexual species that abort host inflorescences. The phylogenetic distribution of seed‐transmitted endophytes is strongly suggestive of cocladogenesis with their hosts. Molecular evidence indicates that many seed‐transmitted endophytes are interspecific hybrids. Superinfection may result in hyphal fusion and parasexual recombination. Most endophytes produce one or more alkaloid classes that likely play some role in defending the host plant against pests. Hybridization may have led to the proliferation of alkaloid‐production genes among asexual endophytes, favoring hybrids. The ergot alkaloid ergovaline, lolitrems, and lolines are produced by only a ...
FINITE-SIZE SCALING ANALYSIS OF THE DECAY OF AN UNSTABLE STATE DURING A FIRST ORDER PHASE TRANSITION

We extend standard finite-size scaling methods to study the dynamical evolution of an unstable state far from equilibrium as the system undergoes a first order phase transition. We suggest that the nonequilibrium structure factor S(q, t, L), at late times and for large enough lattice sizes, scales as S(q, t, L)=LdF(qL, t1/x/L). L is the linear dimension of the system and 1/x is the domain growth exponent. We obtain x=2 in the case of the kinetic Ising model with a nonconserved order parameter. For a critical quench in a system with conserved order parameter, scaling of the peak of the structure factor gives 1/x≈0.27. Higher wavenumbers, however, are more consistent with x=3.
Isoproturon degradation as affected by the growth of two algal species at different concentrations and pH values.

Metabolism of [14C-u-phenyl]isoproturon [3-(4-isopropylphenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea] by two soil and freshwater microorganisms, green alga Chlorella kesslerei and cyanobacterium Anabaena inaequalis, was studied as a function of pH, pesticide concentration, and incubation time. Metabolized isoproturon, in the media, ranged from 0% (Chlorella at pH 5.5 after 1 d) to 22% (Anabaena at pH 5.5 after 10 d). Twenty-five percent faster degradation of isoproturon by Anabaena occurred at pH 5.5 versus pH 7.5, when measured over 10 d. Increased 14C incorporation into tissue, with time and at lower pH, was due mainly to bioaccumulation of [14C]isoproturon and/or its metabolites in the cells. Metabolic degradation resulted in four identifiable (by TLC) metabolites. Based on this, a degradation pathway is proposed, involving mono- and di-N-demethylation, hydroxylation of the isopropyl moiety, and hydrolysis to 4-isopropylaniline. Similarity in the metabolites produced suggests that the enzyme systems responsible for metabol...
Analytical solution for the linear ideal model of simulated moving bed chromatography

An analytical solution for linear ideal simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography is derived. This solution is a set of algebraic equations which allows the calculation of the concentration profiles along the columns and of the concentration histories at the raffinate and extract ports. Using this solution, the operations of SMB under steady-state conditions and during the transition from start-up to steady state are examined. An asymptotic property is found for the steady state. A comparison between SMB and true moving bed (TMB) illustrates their similarities and differences.
On the convergence of perturbation expansions in clean type II superconductors

Abstract Transport coefficients of clean type II superconductors are expanded in powers of the order parameter. The convergence of these series is discussed.
The Archimedean l-group tensor product

We introduce a construction (inZ F-set theory) for the Archimedean l-group tensor product. We relate this tensor product to the existing ones in the theory of Archimedean vector lattices and l-groups.
Interaction of transient radiation in fully developed laminar flows

The transient radiative interactions of nongray absorbing-emitting species in laminar fully-developed flows between two parallel plates are investigated analytically and numerically. The particular species considered are OH, CO, CO2, and H2O and different mixtures of these species. Transient and steady-state results are obtained for the temperature distribution and bulk temperature for different plate spacings, wall temperatures, and pressures. Results, in general, indicate that the rate of radiative heating can be quite high during earlier times. This information is useful in designing thermal protection systems for transient operations.
Regulation of striatal dopamine release by metabotropic glutamate receptors

In vivo microdialysis in conscious rats was used to assess the effect of metabotropic glutamate receptor stimulation on striatal dopamine release. Local application of the metabotropic glutamate agonist (±)-trans-1-aminocyclopentane-1,3-dicarboxylic acid (ACPD), via a microdialysis probe, produced a concentration-dependent response: infusion of 50 μM ACPD did not produce a significant effect on extracellular dopamine levels, while application of 100 μM or 500 μM ACPD increased dopamine release by approximately 50% or 100%, respectively. To examine the contribution of impulse flow and multisynaptic mechanisms to the ACPD-induced increase in dopamine release, 500 μM ACPD were coapplied with 2 μM tetrodotoxin (TTX). An increase in extracellular dopamine levels was observed after the application of 500 μM ACPD, despite the presence of TTX. To further study the actions of metabotropic glutamate receptor-stimulation on terminal release characteristics of dopamine, the effect of ACPD on 40 mM K+-stimulated dopamine release was investigated. It was found that application of ACPD reduces dopamine release in response to K+ stimulation. These data suggest that during basal conditions, metabotropic glutamate receptor activation facilitates striatal dopamine release, possibly through presynaptic, impulse-independent mechanisms. However, during conditions of hyperstimulation, activation of metabotropic receptors, in contrast to ionotropic receptors, reduces excess dopamine release. Synapse 28:220–226, 1998. © 1998 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Picard-Fuchs equations for elliptic modular varieties

Abstract We determine the Picard-Fuchs equations for the elliptic modular varieties E3 and E4 associated to an elliptic fibration φ : E → X over a Riemann surface X.
Determination of the electrical conductivity of liquid Ge0.95Si0.05

We have measured the electrical conductivity of molten germanium-silicon Ge(0.95)Si(0.05) from the liquidus temperature (1050 C) up to 1220 C. The data were acquired with a unique apparatus which utilizes the standard four-probe technique. The basic unit consists of a fused silica enclosure that contains hermetic glass-to-tungsten seals that can support vacuum pressures down to 10(exp -7) Torr. With calibration, the measurement error for the low vapor pressure materials of this study was typically less than 7%. The temperature dependence of the electrical conductivity of a Ge(0.95)Si(0.05) melt was found to vary from approximately 22,300/ohm/cm at the liquidus temperature down to approximately 16,000/ohm/cm at 1220 C. The negative temperature coefficient as well as the magnitude of these data clearly indicate that the molten material is metallic in nature despite the semiconducting properties of the solid.
EDITORIAL: PROSTATE CANCER DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis and staging of carcinoma of the prostate have become increasingly sophisticated since Young and Davis stated 70 years ago that the rectal examination was the sole resource in the diagnosis of the disease.' Nothing has had such an impact on the diagnosis and subsequent followup of the disease than the use of prostate specific antigen (PSA). With its use there was the fear that there would be a plethora of situations when urologists would diagnose and treat insignificant cancer.2 However, increasing evidence is pointing to the fact that clinically insignificant carcinoma of the prostate most probably will remain undetected, while PSA driven biopsies are finding significant disease.3.4 It has been suggested that cancers less than 0.5 ml. in volume may be clinically insignificant.5 The dilemma for the practicing urologist is to be able to classify which patients have this low volume disease. In the excellent assessment of volume of carcinoma of the prostate in needle biopsies by Cupp et a1 (page 1543), biopsies from 130 men (84 with stage T2 and 46 with stage Tlc disease) who subsequently underwent radical prostatectomy were analyzed for volume of cancer in the specimens. Three parameters were measured: percentage of biopsy cores involved, millimeters of cancer per core and percentage of cancer in the biopsy specimen. Transrectal needle biopsy specimens did not allow them to differentiate clinically insignificant and life threatening disease on an individual basis. In this study only 3 patients (2.3%) had cancer less than 0.5 ml. in volume when the prostatectomy specimens were examined. Most disease detected in patients by digital rectal examination and/or PSA will be significant and treatment options must be presented, while, of course, considering all of the usual parameters of patient age, health and so forth. With emphasis being placed on transrectal ultrasonographic examination, not only for patients with carcinoma of the prostate but also for the evaluation and followup of those with benign prostatic hyperplasia, accurate determination of volume is of critical importance. One has only to reflect on the occasional open prostatectomy for benign prostatic hyperplasia in which there was a struggle to remove an embarrassingly small gland that was "large" on digital rectal examination to appreciate the importance of volume. With transrectal ultrasound these encounters have decreased but, as Aarnink et a1 (page 1549) point out, large variations in clinical prostate volume determination exist due to interpretation of individual investigators. Planimetric measurements are the most accurate but are also the most time-consuming. Therefore, an automated technique for volume determination based on their method holds promise, although as they note there are still limitations to the system, for example volume is underestimated in patients with a reference volume of less than 50 cc.
Photostability of High μβ Electro-Optic Chromophores at 1550 nm†

We present the photostability results of seven novel electro-optic chromophores made to be used in high-speed fiber optic signal modulators. We measured the photobleaching rate of the chromophores at room temperature by using a fiber optic pump−probe technique. Thin polymer film guest−host samples were deposited on the end of SMF-28 fiber pigtails and bleached by using 100 mW of 1550 nm radiation as the pump. The bleaching rate was measured by monitoring the main absorption band of the chromophores by using a 660 nm probe beam that was multiplexed into the fiber pigtail. The relative photostability was reported as a figure of merit which is proportional to the 1/e bleaching lifetime of the chromophore. We found the bleaching rate to increase linearly with incident 1550 nm power at the end of the single-mode fiber up to at least 100 mW. Our results show that the photobleaching rate is reduced dramatically when the test is conducted in an inert atmosphere. We also show that the presence of the singlet oxyge...
The origin of chloroplastic acetyl coenzyme A.

Abstract Pyruvic dehydrogenase activity has been examined in a number of highly purified leaf organelles. In spinach leaf cell, the major activity is in the mitochrondrion with low activity in isolated chloroplasts. The major source of CO2 derived from pyruvic acid metabolism in the isolated chloroplast is via the acetolactic synthase reaction localized in the chloroplast. Evidence is presented that the leaf mitochondrion contains both the pyruvic acid dehydrogenase and an acetyl coenzyme A hydrolase. It is suggested that free acetic acid is generated in the mitochrondrion and then moves to the chloroplast where acetyl coenzyme synthetase converts it from the metabolically inert acid to the very metabolically active acetyl coenzyme A.
Mass shell of strong-field quantum electrodynamics

The ponderomotive potential provides the essential key to the explanation of the electron's modified kinematical properties in strong fields.
Comparison of Extractive Distillation and Pressure-Swing Distillation for Acetone-Methanol Separation

Two of the most common methods for separating a binary homogeneous azeotrope are pressure-swing distillation and extractive distillation. The former is effective if the composition of the azeotrope changes significantly with pressure. The latter method is effective if a suitable solvent can be found. This paper compares the steady-state design and the dynamic control of these two methods when applied to the acetone-methanol binary system. The minimum-boiling azeotrope at 1 atm contains 77.6 mol % acetone at 328 K. At 10 atm the azeotropic composition is 37.5 mol % acetone at 408 K, so pressure-swing separation is feasible. Extractive distillation is also feasible using water as the solvent. Both systems require two distillation columns. Purities of the two products are set at 99.5 mol %. Results show that the extractive distillation system has a 15% lower total annual cost. However, a third component (water) is introduced that appears as trace impurities in both the acetone and methanol products. It is also much more difficult to attain higher purities in the extractive distillation system than in the pressure-swing system because of ternary vapor-liquid equilibrium constraints. The dynamic controllabilities of the two alternative processes are quite similar. Steady-state designs and control structures are also developed for the two methods when the columns are heat integrated. Heat integration is straightforward in the pressure-swing system because the condenser temperature in the high-pressure column is 60 K higher than the base temperature in the low-pressure column. In the extractive distillation system, the pressure in the second solvent recovery column must be increased from 1 to 5 atm to provide the necessary temperature differential driving force.
Mathematical model for silicon electrode – Part I. 2-d model

Abstract This paper presents a 2-dimensional transient numerical model to simulate the electrochemical lithium insertion in a silicon nanowire (Si NW) electrode. The model geometry is a cylindrical Si NW electrode anchored to a copper current collector (Cu CC) substrate. The model solves for diffusion of lithium in Si NW, stress generation in the Si NW due to chemical and elastic strains, stress generation in the Cu CC due to elastic strain, and volume expansion in the Si NW and Cu CC geometries. The evolution of stress components, i.e., radial, axial and tangential stresses in different regions in the Si NW are presented and discussed. The effect of radius of Si NW and lithiation rate, on the maximum stresses developed in the Si NW are also discussed.
Transient anesthetic-induced worsening of existing left-sided weakness in a patient undergoing elective anterior cervical discectomy

The differential diagnosis of new or worsening focal neurologic deficits on emergence from anesthesia is broad. Cerebral ischemia or hemorrhage, focal seizures, and acute metabolic abnormalities can all result in similar neurologic findings. Intravenously administered anesthetic agents also have been reported to cause new or worsening focal neurologic deficits in patients with a history of preexisting deficits. A patient who suffered such a reversible deficit related to anesthesia is presented.
A new genus of cleptoparasitic bees from the West Indies (Hymenoptera: Halictidae)

Nesosphecodes gen. nov., a new genus of cleptoparasitic bees (Halictinae: Halictini) is described and figured. Nesosphecodes is most similar to Microsphecodes but differs most notably by the larger body size, more sparse punctation, coal-black integu- ment with the absence of any yellowish areas on the head and mesosoma, and shorter free portion to the marginal cell with submarginal cells extending just barely beyond the pterostigmal apex, among other characters. The genus is differentiated from other sphe- codines (e.g., Sphecodes, Microsphecodes, Eupetersia). Three new species are described: Nesosphecodes anthracinus sp. nov. from Puerto Rico, N. halictophagus sp. nov. from the Dominican Republic, and N. cubicola sp. nov. from Cuba. A key to the species is pre- sented.
Polarization effect of electroactive cellulose

ABSTRACT The piezoelectric effect of electroactive cellulose has been studied. Hardwood and softwood papers were selected toestimate a bending actuation performance in connection with electromechanical coupling factors. The cantileverunimorph actuators are considered. The results show that the coupling is highly non-linear particularly at high k31 for both papers but not at low k31. The effect of the thickness ratio is a critical operating factor at lower k31. In comparison of both papers, softwood paper showed larger coupling factors than that of hardwood paper due to lowerYoung's modulus affecting its stiffness as expected. The future study will center around the sensitivity analysis onthe performance analysis of different types of electroactive cellulose actuators. Also, the temperature dependence ofthe coupling factors will be investigated due to the change of crystalline structure of cellulose in a form of paper. Key words: Cellulose, Electroactive Paper, Piezoelectric 1. INTRODUCTION
Use of Blackbody Optical Fiber Thermometers in High-Temperature Environments

A blackbody optical e ber thermometer consists of an optical e ber whose sensing tip is given a metallic coating. The sensing tip of the e ber forms an isothermal cavity, and the emission from this cavity is approximately equal to the emission from a blackbody. Temperature readings are obtained by measuring the spectral intensity at the end of the e ber at two wavelengths. The ratio of these measurements is used to infer the temperature at the sensing tip. However, readings from blackbody optical e ber thermometers are corrupted by self-emission when extended portions of the e ber are exposed to elevated temperatures. Two possible methods are described for correcting the problem caused by self-emission by the e ber. The e rst method is two-e ber optical e ber thermometry. In this method a second e ber is positioned parallel to the original e ber. The e bers are identical except that the second e ber has a ree ecting coating instead of a blackbody cavity at its tip. Because both the emitting and ree ecting e bers are exposed to the same thermal environment, measurements of the intensity at the end of the ree ecting e ber can be used to eliminate error caused by emission by the e ber. The second approach is spectral remote sensing. In this method the intensity exiting the e ber is measured in portions of the visible and infrared spectrum. The measured spectral intensities are used to reconstruct the temperature proe le along the e ber.
Obesity and Its Impact on Breast Cancer: Tumor Incidence, Recurrence, Survival, and Possible Interventions

A positive association between obesity and the risk of incident postmenopausal breast cancer has been consistently observed in epidemiologic studies. Although most studies of premenopausal women have not found a similar relationship between breast cancer and obesity, the prognosis for both pre- and postmenopausal breast cancer is substantially worse among obese than normal-weight individuals. Increasing evidence suggests that these associations may be mechanistically related to sex hormones, insulin, and certain adipokines. Insulin, for example, has important mitogenic/antiapoptotic activity in addition to its metabolic effects, and many breast tumors express high levels of the insulin receptor (IR)-A isoform. Further, the use of metformin, a diabetes medication that reduces insulin levels, has been epidemiologically associated with reduced breast cancer risk among patients with diabetes, and a recent observational study found a higher rate of pathologic complete responses among patients with diabetes and breast cancer who were using metformin. Formal clinical trials of metformin as adjuvant breast cancer therapy have been initiated and are ongoing. Similarly, the effect of lifestyle changes on breast cancer outcomes is actively being investigated. Several lifestyle intervention studies have demonstrated that weight loss, increased physical activity, and dietary changes are feasible in breast cancer populations, and that individuals who make lifestyle changes after breast cancer diagnosis experience several physical and psychologic benefits. In this article, the authors review the evidence linking obesity with breast cancer risk and outcomes and provide an overview of lifestyle intervention studies in patients with breast cancer.
Boys with Asperger's disorder, exceptional verbal intelligence, tics, and clumsiness

Five boys with both Asperger's disorder and Tourette syndrome, exceptional verbal intelligence, and clumsiness are reported. Each presented at early elementary school age with a prominent complaint of social difficulties with peers. History was notable for a flapping stereotypy and the neurological examination revealed motor and/or vocal tics and numerous motor soft signs. Highly specialized interests were characteristics. Language prosody and/or pragmatics was impaired. Despite exceptional verbal intelligence, the children were not, according to their teachers and parents, faring well either socially or academically. Motor difficulties, manifested psychometrically as a significant performance IQ disadvantage, interfered with school performance and social adjustment. Tics, although not noted by parents in the clinical history, compounded their social difficulties. Asperger's disorder in these highly verbal children overlaps with pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) on account of the socioemotional difficulties and stereotypies seen in both. Asperger's disorder and Tourette syndrome overlap in these children on account of the tics. Finally, Asperger's disorder and the right-hemisphere-based learning disorders overlap on account of the visuoperceptual and attentional deficits that can occur in both.
Airlines’ competition in aircraft size and service frequency in duopoly markets

Abstract We are interested in how airlines make decisions on aircraft size and service frequency in a competitive environment. We apply three game-theoretic models to analyze airlines’ choices in duopoly markets: one short-haul market and one long-haul market. We study how airlines’ choices in a competitive environment may vary with flight distance, and also do sensitivity analysis to explore how the equilibrium results may change when air travel demand is higher, as it may happen in the future. Our research considers the competition factor in airlines’ decisions on both aircraft size and service frequency, and the impact of these decisions on both the cost and demand sides of airlines’ business. Different from previous studies, our research is based on cost, market share and demand models derived from empirical studies.
Bonjour’s Arguments against Skepticism about the A Priori

I reconstruct and critique two arguments Laurence BonJour has recently offered against skepticism about the a priori. While the arguments may provide anti-skeptical, internalist foundationalists with reason to accept the a priori, I show that neither argument provides sufficient reason for believing the more general conclusion that there is no rational alternative to accepting the a priori.
Morphology of multilayer Ag/Ag(100) films versus deposition temperature: STM analysis and atomistic lattice-gas modeling

Scanning tunneling microscopy is used to analyze the nanoscale morphology of 25 ML films of Ag deposited on Ag(100) at temperatures (T) between 55 and 300 K. A transition from self-affine growth to ''mound formation'' occurs as T increases above about 140 K. The roughness decreases with increasing T up until 140 K in the self-affine growth regime, and then increases until about 210 K before decreasing again in the mounding regime. We analyze mounding behavior via a lattice-gas model incorporating: downward funneling of depositing atoms from step edges to lower fourfold hollow adsorption sites; terrace diffusion of adatoms with a barrier of 0.40 eV leading to irreversible island formation in each layer; efficient transport of adatoms along island edges to kink sites; and downward thermal transport of adatoms inhibited by a step-edge barrier of 0.06--0.07 eV along close-packed step edges (but with no barrier along kinked or open steps). This model reasonably recovers the T-dependence of not just the roughness, but also of the mound slopes and lateral dimensions above 190 K. To accurately describe lateral dimensions, an appropriate treatment of the intralayer merging of growing islands is shown to be critical. To describe behavior below 190 K, onemore » must account for inhibited rounding of kinks by adatoms at island edges, as this controls island shapes, and thus the extent of open steps and of easy downward transport. Elsewhere, we describe the low-T regime of self-affine growth (with no terrace diffusion) accounting for a breakdown of the simple downward funneling picture.« less
On multi-cycle test cubes

This article studies the generation of test sets that consist of multi-cycle test cubes. Such test cubes have partially-specified scan-in states, and several functional clock cycles between scan operations. Test cubes are important for test data compression. In addition, multi-cycle tests can detect delay defects that are not detected by single-cycle tests. The use of multi-cycle test cubes is shown to reduce the number of test cubes required for detecting single stuck-at faults compared with the case where single-cycle test cubes are used. This article also shows that a multi-cycle test cube for a single stuck-at fault can have fewer specified scan-in values than a single-cycle test cube for the same fault. As a result, multi-cycle test cubes can be more effective for test data compression. This article also discusses the conditions under which multi-cycle test cubes can be merged in order to further reduce the number of test cubes in a test set.
Writing (and Rewriting) About the Psychology of Women

Sex Roles is celebrating its 35th anniversary by inviting articles from authors of relevant textbooks. I wrote The Psychology of Women because I have a long-standing concern for social justice and because I actually enjoy writing textbooks. The structure of the 7th edition of this textbook is not markedly different from other recent editions. However, our discipline has changed substantially in terms of the volume of research, the growing emphasis on intersectionality, the awareness that gender biases and gender comparisons are often relatively subtle, and the changing nature of the research findings. Current textbook authors face challenges such as the overwhelming amount of new information, the difficulty of presenting information about social justice, and problems with publishing companies. Achieving gender equality will continue to be a challenging goal.
The Effect of Communities In Schools on High School Dropout and Graduation Rates: Results From a Multiyear, School-Level Quasi-Experimental Study

Communities In Schools, Inc. (CIS) is a nationwide initiative designed to connect needed community resources with schools to help students, particularly those identified as at-risk, successfully learn, stay in school, and prepare for life. As part of a comprehensive 5-year national evaluation of CIS, ICF International conducted a school-level quasi-experimental study on 123 CIS high schools and 123 matched comparison high schools, using public use data from 7 different states. The study examined the differences in high school dropout and graduation rates between CIS and its comparison schools over a 4-year period, starting from the year prior to CIS implementation to 3 years after implementation. Our analyses showed that CIS high schools made stronger gains in on-time graduation rates, and had greater reductions in dropout rates, than comparison schools over the same period. Results were considerably stronger for CIS schools that implemented the CIS model with a high degree of fidelity.
Ozonolysis Rates of Some Atmospheric Gases

Rate constants were measured for the gas phase reactions of ppm concentrations of ozone in air with acetylene, acetaldehyde and toluene as 8.6 ± 0.9, 3.4 ± 0.5 and 1.2 ± 0.6 × 10-20 cm3 molecule-1 sec.-1, respectively, using the O3/NO chemiluminesence detector. Toluene, xylene, methane and carbon monoxide were also investigated and upper limits for the rate constants were obtained. Combination with data on olefins and oxides of nitrogen gives a quantitative assessment of the various contributions to the removal of atmospheric ozone.
Numerical evolution of general relativistic voids.

In this paper, we study the evolution of a superhorizon-sized void embedded in a radiation-dominated Friedmann-Robertson-Walker universe. We numerically solve the spherically symmetric general relativistic equations in comoving, synchronous coordinates. Initially, the fluid inside the void is taken to be homogeneous and nonexpanding. When the fluid inside the void is relativistic, we find that radiation diffuses into the void at approximately the speed of light as a strong shock---the void collapses in general. We also find the surprising result that the cosmic collapse time (the first-crossing time) for a relativistic or nonrelativistic void is much smaller than previously thought, because it depends not only on the initial void radius, but also on the ratio of the temperature inside the void (or the particle mass if the void is nonrelativistic) to the temperature outside. Under certain conditions (e.g., if the void is empty enough), the collapse occurs in less than the Hubble time outside the void. This quick collapse time revises the current picture of superhorizon-sized void evolution after first-order inflation. In addition, it introduces the possibility that superhorizon-sized voids may thermalize and homogenize relatively quickly.
A stock redistribution model

Multi-depot supply systems are subject to stock distribution imbalances; i. e., the fraction of total system stock located at a depot may be too small to support the fraction of system demand expected to be placed on it. In the supply system of concern, a cutomer is always satisfied if there is stock anywhere in the system. Stock redistributions to correct imbalances may reduce both transportation costs and customer waiting times. A model for determining optimum redistribution quantities is formulated, and a practical method of solution for the two depot case is described. Selected numerical illustrations are given.
CLASP MOVES AND STICK NUMBER

We introduce a geometric construction, called a clasp move, which is used to prove several results on stick numbers of links. In particular, we show that all two-component six-crossing links have stick number 8, produce small crossing number knots that can be constructed with fewer sticks than crossings, and improve known upper bounds for the stick number of certain classes of links.
Laser-induced preionization of a rare-gas halide discharge

Modest-energy-density KrF laser radiation has been used to provide uniform preionization in a 5-atm, 2.5 × 2.5-cm2 XeCl discharge. With ~1 mJ/cm2 of KrF radiation and the utilization of benzene additives at the level of a few parts in 106, an initial ionization density of ~107 cm−3 is produced. The technique is scalable to large volumes and provides an effective means of controlling the preionization conditions.
Learned aversions to intracerebral carbachol.

Abstract The learned taste aversion paradigm was employed to test for aversive effects of microinjections of carbachol to the medial septum, lateral ventricle and ventral hippocampus. To determine the locus of action of carbachol, either a central cholinergic blocker (atropine sulfate) or a peripheral cholinergic blocker (atropine methyl nitrate) was administered concomitantly with carbachol. Carbachol administered to the medial septum resulted in a learned taste aversion that was mediated by central cholinergic systems. Administrations to the lateral ventricle resulted in a learned taste aversion mediated by a peripheral cholinergic effect. Administrations to the ventral hippocampus did not result in a learned taste aversion but appeared to condition an aversion to being handled. It is concluded that centrally administered carbachol produces an altered internal state which is aversive to the animal, and the mechanism underlying this phenomenon is dependent upon the site of administration.
Comparative analysis of different laparoscopic hysterectomy procedures

To compare the antecedent gynecological characteristics, indications for, and complications associated with, the different laparoscopic approaches to hysterectomy, in women with benign gynecological conditions. A retrospective cohort study of 957 patients who underwent laparoscopic supracervical (LSH), total (TLH), and assisted vaginal (LAVH) hysterectomies between January 2003 and December 2009. Among 957 LH, 799 (83.5%) were LSH, 62 (6.4%) TLH, and 96 (10.1%) LAVH. Demographic characteristics were not different among the groups. Antecedent gynecologic conditions that were associated with the type of laparoscopic hysterectomy (LH) performed were: postmenopausal bleeding [LAVH vs. LSH, odds ratio (OR) 2.20; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.04–4.65], previous pelvic surgery (TLH vs. LSH, OR 1.92; CI 1.05–3.52), previous cesarean delivery (LAVH vs. LSH, OR 0.39; CI 0.21–0.76), and prior hysteroscopy (LAVH vs. LSH, OR 0.29; CI 0.16–0.50). Preoperative diagnoses that were associated with the choice of LH were: menometrorrhagia (LAVH vs. LSH, OR 0.23; CI 0.14–0.38; TLH vs. LSH, OR 0.50; CI 0.26–0.98), uterine fibroids (LAVH vs. LSH, OR 0.25; CI 0.15–0.41), endometrial hyperplasia (TLH vs. LSH, OR 5.5; CI 2.04–14.84), and cervical dysplasia (TLH vs. LSH, OR 17.1; CI 6.83–42.79; LAVH vs. LSH, OR 8.05; CI 3.05–22.06). Estimated blood loss, operating time, and length of hospital stay were significantly reduced with LSH. Antecedent gynecological history and the indications for surgery were associated with the type of LH performed in our institution. LSH was the most common approach and was associated with significantly less morbidity.
Exploratory analysis of child protection mediation permanency placement outcomes

Using a merged data set constructed from empirical data obtained from Child Protective Services (CPS) and a nonprofit agency tasked with conducting an evaluation of a child protection mediation pilot project in the state in which this study was conducted, this study (N = 311) explores how various child and family factors in child protection mediation cases affect placement outcomes for children in care. RESULTS of the multinomial logistic regression (MLR) analyses found that children for whom parent/caregiver substance abuse and/or mental illness was an issue were less likely to be reunified with their parents than remain in care. Those children who experienced a higher number of placements and those who were male were less likely to be placed with relatives. Children whose parents experienced mental health issues were less likely to be placed with a relative. With regard to the permanency outcome of adoption, the findings showed that as the age of the child at time of removal increased, children were less likely to be adopted than remain in care. Additionally, African American children in the sample were less likely to be adopted.
Classical trajectory studies of hydrogen dissociation on a Cu(100) surface

Abstract Classical trajectory calculations are performed on an empirical model potential surface representing the interaction of hydrogen and a copper (100) surface. The results, although only exploratory in nature, provide several insights into the dynamics of the activated surface induced dissociation including the effects of rotational and vibrational energy on the reaction probabilities for a system for which the interaction resembles this model. However, the results do not compare well with dissociative adsorption probabilities measured in recent molecular beam experiments. It is concluded that to the extent that this model is applicable, we have not represented the actual features of the interaction potential surface sufficiently well, and that a systematic variation in the potential surface would be worthwhile before a significantly more complex calculation be undertaken.
Olivine composition in chondrites

Abstract Olivine is almost omnipresent in chondrites, being absent only in the enstatite chondrites and a few carbonaceous chondrites. In most chondrites it is the dominant mineral. Since it shows a considerable range of composition, which is directly related to the FeO MgO ratio in the individual meteorite, and since its composition is readily determined either by X-ray diffraction or by refractive index measurement, its composition provides an excellent criterion for the classification of chondrites. This paper reports the olivine composition in about 800 of the approximately one thousand chondrites known; of the chondrites examined, 14 are enstatite chondrites, 364 are olivine-bronzite chondrites, 427 are olivine-hypersthene chondrites, 12 are olivine-pigeonite chondrites, and 17 are carbonaceous chondrites. The significance of these data for theories of the origin of chondrites is briefly discussed, and it is suggested that the different types of chondrites may represent samples from different regions of the pre-planetary solar system.
Acculturation Among Three Racial/Ethnic Groups of Host and Immigrant Adolescents

This study compares Latino host, Latino immigrant, Asian-American host, Asian-American immigrant and European-American host groups of adolescents with respect to four acculturation-related variables: ethnic identity exploration, ethnic identity affirmation/belonging, outgroup orientation, and American identity. Using the five ethno-generational categories as a grouping variable, we conducted analyses of 313 survey responses to the acculturation items at two time periods, 9 weeks apart. Results showed that differences among the three host racial/ethnic groups can best be explained by a group dominance perspective, whereby the two racial/ethnic minority groups are more similar to each other than they are to the European-American group. Furthermore, the relationship between American identity and ethnic identity components is stronger among the three host groups, as compared to the immigrant groups. Implications for future research with adolescent members of the host group whose heritage culture is non-European are drawn.
“Three disconnects” and China's rural election: A case study of Hailian Village

Abstract With the case study of the local elections in a poverty-stricken, largely illiterate and isolated village in the remote and mountainous Yi minority village, this article is intended to address the so-called “three disconnects” phenomenon in the development of China's rural election. They refer to the disconnect between economic development and democratic elections, the disconnect between democratic elections and democratic consciousness, and the disconnect between direct local elections in the rural areas and the higher level elections in urban regions. The article examines the political reasons and institutional logic behind this unique development of rural democracy in China as well as the existential value of the three “disconnects.”
X-ray scattering evidence for the value of the critical exponent η in Argon

Abstract A comparison of results from X-ray scattering and other methods suggests that for argon, η = 0.10 ± 0.05. The isothermal compressibility at the critical density has been determined in the one-phase region near the critical temperature.
Hardness, hydrophobic and optical properties of fluorine and boron co-alloyed diamond-like carbon films

Abstract Fluorine (F) and boron (B) co-alloyed diamond-like carbon (FB-DLC) films were prepared on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate, glass, and silicon 〈100〉 wafer using a B2H6+C2H2+C2F6 plasma immersion ion processing (PIIP) technique. The chemical composition and atomic bonding of FB-DLC films were analyzed to investigate their influence on the hardness, optical band gap and contact angles of water. Compared to B-alloyed or F-alloyed DLC films, BF-alloyed DLC films exhibited enhanced hardness, high optical gap energy, and improved hydrophobic properties.
Personhood and the practical

Traditionally, it has been assumed that metaphysical and practical questions about personhood and personal identity are inherently linked. Neo-Lockean views that draw such a link have been problematic, leading to an opposing view that metaphysical and ethical questions about persons should be sharply distinguished. This paper argues that consideration of this issue suffers from an overly narrow conception of the practical concerns associated with persons that focuses on higher-order capacities and fails to appreciate basic practical concerns more directly connected to our animality. A more inclusive alternative is proposed.