cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Diet of the Delacour's langur (Trachypithecus delacouri) in Van Long Nature Reserve, Vietnam.

The six limestone langur taxa of Southeast Asia inhabit the rugged limestone karst mountains, although the reason for their current restriction to this habitat is unclear. From August 2007 to July 2008, I collected data on the diet and feeding behavior of the critically endangered Delacour's langur (Trachypithecus delacouri) in Van Long Nature Reserve, Vietnam. I used these data to evaluate the hypothesis that limestone langurs are found on karst habitat because they depend on endemic limestone plants. Feeding accounted for 29% of the langurs' activity budget. Young leaves dominated the diet monthly, seasonally, and annually. The annual diet consists of nearly 79% foliage with almost 60% young leaves. Despite a distinct wet and dry season, over the study period, seasonal variation in plant part consumption was slight. Fruit and seeds were a small contribution to the diet. Delacour's langurs ate 42 of 145 available species, and they concentrated on a subset of this number. Five plant species comprised more than 60% of the diet and 16 species comprised more than 93%. More than half of the diet came from climbers. Delacour's langurs are among the most highly folivorous of studied colobines and, along with the closely related T. leucocephalus of southern China, the most folivorous of the Asian langurs. Whether high folivory is owing to a lack of available fruits and seeds in limestone habitats is unknown. What is certain, however, is that the plant species most important in the Delacour's langurs' diet at VLNR, throughout the study, were not plants endemic to limestone. Feeding dependence alone, therefore, cannot explain the current distribution of limestone langurs on karst habitat. Am. J. Primatol. 72:317–324, 2010. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
LAVA: an open-source approach to designing LAMP (loop-mediated isothermal amplification) DNA signatures.

We developed an extendable open-source Loop-mediated isothermal AMPlification (LAMP) signature design program called LAVA (LAMP Assay Versatile Analysis). LAVA was created in response to limitations of existing LAMP signature programs. LAVA identifies combinations of six primer regions for basic LAMP signatures, or combinations of eight primer regions for LAMP signatures with loop primers, which can be used as LAMP signatures. The identified primers are conserved among target organism sequences. Primer combinations are optimized based on lengths, melting temperatures, and spacing among primer sites. We compare LAMP signature candidates for Staphylococcus aureus created both by LAVA and by PrimerExplorer. We also include signatures from a sample run targeting all strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. We have designed and demonstrated new software for identifying signature candidates appropriate for LAMP assays. The software is available for download at http://lava-dna.googlecode.com/ .
Isolation and characterization of a membrane-associated, calcium-dependent phospholipase A2 from rabbit lung

This paper describes the subcellular localization, solubilization and partial purification of an otherwise tightly membrane-bound phospholipase A2 in lung. Homogenates of rabbit and dog lung had maximal phospholipase A2 activity at pH 7.0–7.5 in the presence of 5 mM CaCl2. Calcium-dependent phospholipase A2 activity was equally enriched (4–5 fold) in mitochondrial, lysosomal, and microsomal-rich fractions obtained by differential centrifugation of whole lung homogenates. Lacking a specific subcellular localization, the phospholipase A2 was successfully extracted from whole lung by homogenization in 0.18 N H2SO4. The acid extract (pH 1.0) contained 200% of the homogenate’s phospholipase A2 acitvity and was enriched 3.2 fold. The solubilized phospholipase A2 was most active at pH 7.0, and was absolutely dependent on and extremely sensitive to low concentrations of CaCl2. Maximal activity was found with less than 0.5 mM added Ca2+; Mg2+ and Mn2+ would not substitute for Ca2+, and EDTA was a potent inhibitor. The phospholipase A2 showed absolute specificity for the 2-acyl position; lysophospholipase, phospholipase C, and triglyceride lipase activities were not detectable in the acid extract. The enzyme was purified 2924-fold with respect to the homogenate by ion exchange and hydrophobic interaction chromatography. Activity was inhibited to approximately the same extent by indomethacin, mepacrine, and chlorpromazine (ID50=5 × 10−4 M) but was not inhibited by dexamethasone or aspirin.
Woody plant seed dispersal and gap formation in a North American subtropical savanna woodland: the role of domestic herbivores

The relationship between domestic cattle and vegetation change in a savanna woodland was evaluated with respect to dung deposition and the dispersal and establishment of mesquite (Prosopis glandulosa var. glandulosa, Mimosaceae), a cosmopolitan woody invader of grasslands in the southwestern USA. Dung deposited in autumn disintegrated rapidly, leaving patches of bare ground ranging from 50 to 900 cm2. Herbaceous cover on gaps created by dung deposition recovered to levels comparable to neighboring vegetation by the end of the following growing season. Vegetation colonizing gaps consisted primarily of grasses not found in the surrounding vegetation. Dung deposition increased species diversity and spatial heterogeneity of the herbaceous vegetation and contributed to the development of a fine-grain mosaic of small patches of varying successional age-states. The role of cattle in facilitating the ingress and establishment of mesquite has broader implications with regard to the conversion of grasslands to woodlands. On the site with cattle, mesquite seedlings were found in 75% of dung pats surveyed in September (mean =4.2 seedlings per pat; maximum =50). Although seedling survival in dung (79%) was only 16% greater than that of mesquite emerging from seeds experimentally sown away from dung, no seedlings were found on areas without cattle. Mean (± SE) density of mesquite seedlings ranged from 12±2 to 15±2 m-2 on the site with cattle. Seed densities away from parent plants averaged 10.7 m-2 and 0.0 m-2 on areas with and without cattle, respectively. Seed densities beneath adult plants were comparable between sites. The high density of seedlings on areas with cattle, in contrast to absence of seedlings on the area without cattle, suggests rates of invasion of grasslands by mesquite would have increased substantially in North America following the settlement and introduction of domestic ungulates. Prior to the introduction of livestock, poor seed dissemination and germination may have limited its Holocene spread.
Minimal cut sets of s–t networks with k-out-of-n nodes

Abstract In this paper, we extend traditional directed s – t network by letting nodes have k -out-of- n property: To generate output flows, a node must receive at least k flows from its n input links, where k is an integer assigned for the node and its value can be any number from 1 to n . To evaluate the system reliability, minimal cut sets for the extended network are defined for nodes. Under this definition, an extended network and its sink node have the same minimal cut sets. A new algorithm is designed to generate minimal cut sets for all nodes, starting with the source node and ending with the sink node. With different initializations, the algorithm can be applied for extended s – t networks with or without node failures.
A direct injection high efficiency nebulizer interface for microbore high-performance liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry

A simple, relatively low-cost interface is investigated for high-performance liquid chromatography using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) detection. The interface consists of a one-piece micronebulizer (direct injection high efficiency nebulizer, DIHEN), positioned in the ICP torch for the direct nebulization of solution into the base of the argon plasma. Microcolumn separations were performed in two modes: one, reverse-phase separation of three naturally occurring cobalamin species (hydroxocobalamin, cyanocobalamin, and adenosylcobalamin); and two, ion-pairing reverse-phase separation of five organolead and organomercury species [triethyllead (Et3Pb+), triphenyllead (Ph3Pb+), methylmercury (MeHg+), ethylmercury (EtHg+) and phenylmercury (PhHg+)]. For a 10 µL injection, absolute sensitivity in the ion pairing mode ranged from 2430 counts pg−1 (EtHg+) to 35880 counts pg−1 (Ph3Pb+) and peak area reproducibility (%RSD, n = 5) ranged from 0.7% (EtHg+) to 5.1% (PhHg+). Absolute detection limits were in the low- to sub-picogram range. Importantly, no plasma instability or carbon deposition on the nebulizer tip was observed using organic modifiers in the mobile phase of up to 20%.
Variability in Negation in African American Vernacular English.

For quantitative sociolinguists, one of the goals of investigating variability in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) is to understand better the nature of the grammar. Specifically, researchers have been interested in whether the variation observed in AAVE is inherent to a single system or the result of interaction between two separate systems of AAVE and Standard English (SE). Variability in negation is an area of the AAVE grammar that has received minimal attention, but one that may offer some interesting insights into the nature of the system or systems at work. This article provides a framework to describe the variability between negative auxiliaries in predicative constructions based on a quantitative analysis of data collected in Columbus, Ohio. Five variables are investigated in this study. One involves interaction between third-person singular inflection and non-inflection in present do-support constructions (NEG pres). A second involves variation between ain't and don't with the predicates got or gotta (NEG GOT(ta)). And the other three involve interaction between ain't and negative auxiliaries in present copular (NEG COP), present perfect (NEG perf), and past do-support (NEG past) constructions. The results of this study show that, with the possible exception of the (NEG pres) variation, these alternations all appear to belong to one underlying system.
Do carbohydrates affect food intake via neurotransmitter activity

The consumption of a carbohydrate-rich, protein-poor meal or snack can increase the synthesis of the brain neurotransmitter serotonin; proteins block this effect. The mechanism of the rise in brain serotonin involves the secretion of insulin, and the decrease that the hormone produces in plasma levels of certain amino acids that compete with tryptophan, serotonin's precursor, for transport across the blood-brain barrier. The rise in serotonin can thus be produced by any carbohydrate that elicits insulin secretion, independent of its sweetness. Pharmacologic treatments that amplify serotonin-mediated neurotransmission can selectively decrease the consumption of carbohydrate (i.e., in relation to that of protein). A group of diseases seems to exist in which depressive symptoms are associated with "carbohydrate-craving", and the consumption of large quantities of carbohydrate-rich, protein-poor snacks. Patients describe positive subjective responses to the dietary carbohydrates which are unrelated to hunger. These responses may be mediated by the rise in brain serotonin.
Tumor necrosis factor α down-regulates expression of the α1(I) collagen gene in rat hepatic stellate cells through a p20C/EBPβ- and C/EBPδ-dependent mechanism

Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) is one of the key cytokines of the acute phase response and of many inflammatory processes. This cytokine has several antifibrogenic actions and down-regulates the expression of the type I collagen genes and induces the expression of metalloproteinases. Because TNF-α directly antagonizes some fibrogenic actions of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1 ), we considered it important to map the cis-acting regulatory element of the α1(I) collagen (col1a1) promoter involved in TNF-α responsiveness in hepatic stellate cells (HSC), to investigate the transcription factors that bind to it, and to establish possible mechanisms by which TNF-α down-regulates its expression. In this article, we show the presence of a functional TNF-α–responsive element (TaRE) in the −378 to −345 region of the col1a1 promoter. This element colocalizes with a previously reported TGF-β1 –responsive element. We further demonstrate that TNF-α induces nuclear translocation and binding of transcriptional complexes containing p20C/EBPβ, p35C/EBPβ, and C/EBPδ to this sequence of the promoter. Transient overexpression of C/EBPδ or p20C/EBPβ, the natural dominant negative form of C/EBPβ in HSC, down-regulated activity of a CAT reporter vector driven by −412 to +110 of the col1a1 promoter. Taken together, these data suggest that the −378 to −340 region of the col1a1 promoter is the site of convergence of different stimuli that ultimately modulate col1a1 gene transcription.
Depth of phonological recoding in short-term memory

In testing the hypothesis that surface phonetic form is included in short-term memory (STM) representation, the tone sandhi phenomenon in Mandarin Chinese was exploited, and, as a prerequisite, the hypothesis that tonal similarity affects STM of verbal material in a tone language was also tested. In Experiment 1, subjects recalled visually presented sequences of seven monosyllabic Chinese morphemes having either the same tone or different tones. More errors were made on the monotonal sequences than on the multitonal sequences, confirming the effect of tonal similarity on STM. In Experiment 2, subjects recalled visually presented sequences of disyllabic nonsense words. The sequences were designed in such a way that half of them were subject to the tone sandhi rule in Mandarin Chinese, whereas the other half were not. The consequence of applying the tone sandhi rule, as designed, was to make all the first characters in the sequences identical in pronunciation, thus creating potential phonological confusion. More errors, indeed, occurred on the sequences subject to the tone sandhi rule than on those not subject to it, indicating the existence of a surface phonetic representation in STM. The findings in this study provide further insight into the phonological mechanism of STM. Different accounts for this mechanism are also discussed in the light of the new findings.
Flow Effects on Coagulation and Thrombosis

Thrombosis occurs in a dynamic rheological field that constantly changes as the thrombus grows to occlusive dimensions. In the initiation of thrombosis, flow conditions near the vessel wall regulate how quickly reactive components are delivered to the injured site and how rapidly the reaction products are disseminated. Whereas the delivery and removal of soluble coagulation factors to the vessel is thought to occur via classic convection-diffusion phenomena, the movement of cells and platelets to the injured wall is strongly augmented by flow-dependent cell-cell collisions that enhance their ability to interact with the wall. In addition, increased shear conditions have been shown to activate platelets, alter the cellular localization of proteins such as tissue factor (TF) and TF pathway inhibitor, and regulate gene production. In the absence of high shearing forces, red cells, leukocytes, and platelets can form stable aggregates with each other or cells lining the vessel wall, which, in addition to altering the biochemical makeup of the aggregate or vessel wall, effectively increases the local blood viscosity. Thus, hemodynamic forces not only regulate the predilection of specific anatomic sites to thrombosis, but they strongly influence the biochemical makeup of thrombi and the reaction pathways involved in thrombus formation.
Beyond Progression in Specialization Research: Leisure Capital and Participation Change

Recent specialization research shows that progression along a unidirectional continuum from novice to expert is more the exception than the rule. We argue that a capital metaphor of changing leisure investments provides a better way to explain multidirectional participation. We propose four mechanisms of leisure capital investments. First, contemporary diversification of leisure opportunities may encourage people to use their leisure capital in more, rather than fewer activities. Second, limitations in one's abilities, desire, or situation may produce casual or declining activity participation. Third, people may develop casual leisure routines that provide organization, routine, and predictability in everyday life. Finally, life-course change leads to activity attrition as leisure capital is devoted to new age and life-stage appropriate activities. These mechanisms enhance the ability of the specialization framework to overcome the unidirectional nature of progression, and allow a more dynamic conceptual ...
Proximal common bile duct obstruction secondary to a periampullary duodenal diverticulum: successful treatment with endoscopic stenting.

Biliary obstruction resulting from the mechanical effects of a periampullary duodenal diverticulum is a rare condition. We describe a case in which this was responsible for chronic recurrent abdominal pain and an episode of cholangitis following ERCP. The ob­ struction was treated with a biliary endoprosthesis, resulting in excellent clinical and symptomatic con­
Angiotensin II decreases the rate of production of cerebrospinal fluid

The choroid plexus, which produces cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), contains receptors for angiotensin II and a very high concentration of angiotensin-converting enzyme. Circulating angiotensin II decreases blood flow to the choroid plexus. The first goal of this study was to examine the hypothesis that angiotensin II decreases the production of CSF. The second goal was to determine whether effects of angiotensin II on the production of CSF were receptor-mediated. Production of CSF was measured in chloralose-anesthetized rabbits using ventriculocisternal perfusion of artificial CSF containing blue dextran. Rabbits received either vehicle, angiotensin II, angiotensin II in the presence of an angiotensin II antagonist (saralasin), or saralasin intravenously. Increases in blood pressure, during administration of angiotensin II, were prevented by withdrawal of blood. Under control conditions, CSF production averaged 7.2 +/- 0.2 microliters/min (mean +/- S.E.). Angiotensin II (100 ng/kg/min i.v.) decreased CSF production by 24 +/- 3% (P 0.05, n = 7). Vehicle did not affect CSF production significantly (-2 +/- 6%, P > 0.05, n = 7). Saralasin alone decreased production of CSF (-21 +/- 5%, P < 0.05, n = 7). To test the specificity of saralasin in blocking effects of angiotensin II receptor stimulation on CSF production, the carbonic anhydrase inhibitor acetazolamide was administered in the presence and absence of saralasin.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
Microstructural effects on fracture toughness of polycrystalline ceramics in combined mode I and mode II loading

Fracture toughness of polycrystalline alumina and ceria partially-stabilized tetragonal zirconia (CeO2-TZP) ceramics were assessed in combined mode I and mode II loading using precracked disk specimens in diametral compression. Stress states ranging from pure mode I, combined mode I and mode II, and pure mode II were obtained by aligning the center crack at specific angles relative to the loading diameter. The resulting mixed-mode fracture toughness envelope showed significant deviation to higher fracture toughness in mode II relative to the predictions of the linear elastic fracture mechanics theory. Critical comparison with corresponding results on soda-lime glass and fracture surface observations showed that crack surface resistance arising from grain interlocking and abrasion was the main source of the increased fracture toughness in mode II loading of the polycrystalline ceramics. The normalized fracture toughness for pure mode II loading, (KII/KIc), increased with increasing grain size for the CeO2-TZP ceramics. Quantitative fractography confirmed an increased percentage of transgranular fracture of the grains in mode II loading.
Refugees, Rights, and Race: How Legal Status Shapes Liberian Immigrants' Relationship with the State

Drawing on three years of participant observation in a Liberian immigrant community, this article examines the role of legal refugee status in immigrants' daily encounters with the state. Using the literature on immigrant incorporation, claims making, and citizenship, it argues that refugee status profoundly shapes individuals' views and expectations of their host government as well as their interactions with the medical, educational, and social service institutions they encounter. The refugees in this study use their refugee status to make claims for legal and social citizenship and to distance themselves from native-born blacks. In doing so, they validate their own position vis-a-vis the state and in the American ethno-racial hierarchy. The findings presented demonstrate how refugee status operates as a symbolic and interpretive resource used to negotiate the structural realities of the welfare state and American race relations. These results stress the importance of studying immigrant incorporation from a micro perspective and suggest mechanisms for the adaptational advantages for refugees reported in existing research.
Formation of triplet excimers and dimers in amorphous organic thin films and light emitting devices

Abstract We examine triplet excimers in neat films of the phosphorescent molecule: platinum (II) (2-(4′,6′-difluorophenyl)pyridinato-N,C2) acetyl acetate (FPt1). This molecule was chosen because of its square planar structure, allowing it to facially pack in a crystal with an intermolecular separation of only 3.4±0.1 A, thereby facilitating excimer formation between adjacent molecules. The transient and steady-state photoluminescent and electroluminescent properties of FPt1 are used to understand the formation of triplet excimers ( 3 E 0 * ) and dimers ( 3 D * ) in amorphous films grown by thermal evaporation. We find that 3 E 0 * and 3 D * have peak emission intensities at 2.07 and 1.83 eV, and have lifetimes of (1.6±0.3) μs and (800±80) ns at room temperature, respectively. When films are optically pumped, triplet excitons form on monomers and then diffuse via thermally activated hopping to nearby excimer sites with an activation energy of (37±4) meV. We find that the energy transfer efficiency from the monomer to the excimer state approaches 100% at room temperature, and that the photoluminescence efficiency of the excimer is three times less than that of the monomer. Further, excitation of triplet aggregate states, or metal–metal dimers via the association of cations and anions of electrically pumped FPt1 is achieved in an organic light-emitting device, which achieves a maximum internal quantum efficiency of ∼14%. Electrical pumping also reveals dimer states unresolved in photoluminescent studies. The high efficiency of the triplet excimers of FPt1 is significant since dimeric species, especially triplets, are often associated with concentration quenching and low quantum yields.
A study of solutions of titanium of low oxidation states

Abstract A study of a series of aqueous and non-aqueous solutions of titanium of low valence has shown that titanium exists in these solutions in the form of titanium (III). Polar titanium (II) chloride does not dissolve in the non-polar solvents studied. Solvents with active hydrogens react with the titanium (II) and in acetonitrile and dimethylformamide titanium (II) chloride undergoes disproportionation. TiCl 2 (solid) → TiCl 3 (solution) + Ti (solid)
The androgen receptor: a biologically relevant vaccine target for the treatment of prostate cancer

The androgen receptor (AR) plays an essential role in the development and progression of prostate cancer. However, while it has long been the primary molecular target of metastatic prostate cancer therapies, it has not been explored as an immunotherapeutic target. In particular, the AR ligand-binding domain (LBD) is a potentially attractive target, as it has an identical sequence among humans as well as among multiple species, providing a logical candidate for preclinical evaluation. In this report, we evaluated the immune and anti-tumor efficacy of a DNA vaccine targeting the AR LBD (pTVG-AR) in relevant rodent preclinical models. We found immunization of HHDII-DR1 mice, which express human HLA-A2 and HLA-DR1, with pTVG-AR augmented AR LBD HLA-A2-restricted peptide-specific, cytotoxic immune responses in vivo that could lyse human prostate cancer cells. Using an HLA-A2-expressing autochthonous model of prostate cancer, immunization with pTVG-AR augmented HLA-A2-restricted immune responses that could lyse syngeneic prostate tumor cells and led to a decrease in tumor burden and an increase in overall survival of tumor-bearing animals. Finally, immunization decreased prostate tumor growth in Copenhagen rats that was associated with a Th1-type immune response. These data show that the AR is as a prostate cancer immunological target antigen and that a DNA vaccine targeting the AR LBD is an attractive candidate for clinical evaluation.
Novel peptides targeting the hepatocyte growth factor receptor c-Met for the treatment of cancer

Dysregulated growth factor signalling is an important hallmark of cancer. The receptor tyrosine kinase c-Met has been implicated in the development of many carcinomas and sarcomas, and multiple therapeutic approaches to target the hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)/c-Met signalling axis are being pursued by several companies. Here, monomeric peptides or chemically-conjugated multimeric polypeptides that antagonise binding of HGF to c-Met and abrogate c-Met function are claimed as a treatment for cancer.
Titanium-titanium boride (Ti-TiB) functionally graded materials through reaction sintering: Synthesis, microstructure, and properties

The study demonstrates an effective method to synthesize titanium-titanium boride (Ti-TiB) functionally graded material (FGM) tiles by exploiting the simultaneous TiB whisker formation in situ and the densification occurring during the reaction sintering process. The macrostructure of the graded material was designed to have a beta-titanium (β-Ti) layer on one side with the composite layers of Ti-TiB mixture having increasing volume fraction of the TiB through the thickness. The approach used an optimized tri-modal powder mixture consisting of α-Ti powder, a master alloy of the β-stabilizing-element powders (Fe-Mo), and TiB2. The structure and properties of both of these FGMs were systematically characterized by X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy, and microhardness measurements. Interestingly, it has been found that two different kinds of TiB whisker morphologies were observed in the FGMs. The Ti-rich layers were found to have large and pristine TiB whiskers uniformly distributed in the Ti matrix. On the other hand, the TiB-rich layer was found to have a network of interconnected and relatively smaller TiB whiskers appearing as clusters. The layers of intermediate TiB volume fractions were found to consist of both the morphologies of TiB. The effectiveness of the X-ray direct comparison method for the determination of volume fractions of phases in the FGM layers was also demonstrated. The Vickers microhardness level was found to increase dramatically from 420 kgf/mm2 in the β-Ti layer to 1600 kgf/mm2 in the TiB-rich layer. The elastic residual stresses retained in the graded layers after fabrication were determined based on an elastic multilayer model. The nature of microstructure, the hardness variation, and the distribution of residual stresses in these novel FGMs are discussed.
Chebyshev Spectral Methods for Limited-Area Models. Part II: Shallow Water Model

Abstract Chebyshev spectral methods were studied in Part I for the linear advection equation in one dimension. Here we extend these methods to the nonlinear shallow water equations in two dimensions. Numerical models are constructed for a limited domain on a β-plane, using open (characteristic) boundary conditions based on Rieman invariants to simulate an unbounded domain. Reflecting boundary conditions (wall and balance) are also considered for comparison. We discuss the formulation of the Chebyshev–tau and Chebyshev–collocation discretizations for this problem. The tau discretization avoids aliasing error in evaluating quadratic nonlinear terms, while the collocation method is simpler to program. Numerical results from a linearized one-dimensional test problem demonstrate that with the characteristic boundary conditions the stability properties for various explicit time differencing schemes an essentially the same as obtained in Part I for the linear advection equation. These open boundary conditions al...
UMBILICAL SURGERY IN CALVES

Calves benefiting from umbilical surgery can be affected by several different conditions. However, the practitioner should be able to correct any of these conditions surgically, especially in young calves, as a field procedure. Like other aspects of veterinary practice, the individual must decide what services he/she wishes to offer clients in the field or clinic setting and which ones will be referred. The objective of this article is to equip practitioners who wish to treat umbilical masses surgically with the information they need.
ESPI and Digital Speckle Correlation Applied to Inspection of Crevice Corrosion on Aging Aircraft

A recent advance in the nondestructive inspection of crevice corrosion is reported. Crevice corrosion is one of the most hazardous defects that threaten the integrity of aging aircraft. Two optical techniques, electronic speckle pattern interferometry (ESPI) and digital speckle correlation (DSC), are employed to reveal the existence of crevice corrosion, which is usually undetectable from outside by visual inspection. The ESPI is configured to measure out-of-plane displacement. Both thermal loading and vacuum loading are used. The anomaly of fringe patterns reveals the existence of crevice corrosion hidden between two metallic plates. Not only the location of defects, but also the approximate size can be estimated. The digital speckle correlation technique takes advantage of laser speckle properties. The speckle decorrelation due to out-of-plane displacement in the region with crevice corrosion is larger than the region without defects. This difference is calculated by a digital correlation algorithm, which reveals the crevice corrosion. These two techniques can be used alternatively for field inspection of aircraft. While digital speckle correlation offers a simple, rapid approach to qualitatively detect defects, ESPI can be used as a supplementary tool if a more sensitive and quantitative evaluation is required.
Discharge of P2+ ions in the beamline of medium current implanters

Abstract The P 2+ ion beam has been analyzed behind the beam-filter at the target area of medium current implanters. It has been found that a discharge of P 2+ ions occurs with varying setup conditions of the ion beam. Depending on the source pressure, almost any fraction of the P 2+ ions is discharged before reaching the target even with the beam filter in the “on” position. The dose monitor is not able to handle an unknown mixture of P 2+ and P + ions so that the implanted doses are higher than anticipated. The influence of the discharge phenomena on a P 2+ implanted N-well process will be shown.
Influence of seed source upon phenology of flowering of Spartina alterniflora Loisel and the likelihood of cross pollination

Seedlings of Spartina alterniflora Loisel., from seed harvested from nine marshes ranging from Maine to Virginia, were grown for three seasons in plots established on two different soils in Delaware and were flooded regularly with water from two estuarine sources. Substantial differences in the time of flowering were observed. Each year plants from Maine seed flowered first and were followed by those from Connecticut and New York. Last to flower were plants from Virginia seed. The latter initiated flowering after flowering of the Maine source had been completed. These two would not cross-pollinate under this circumstance. The phenology of anthesis and number of seeds set on inflorescences enclosed in bags indicate that this species is largely open pollinated. SPARTINA ALTERNIFLORA LOISEL. is the dominant grass of many tidemarshes of eastern United States. Reproduction occurs both by means of rhizomes and seed. It is observed commonly that more vigorous, tall stands along stream banks flower more abundantly than do short stands on the same marsh. These two growth forms, which have been considered to be ecophenes (Mooring, Cooper and Seneca, 1971; Shea, Warren and Niering, 1975; Valiela, Teal and Deuser, 1978), appear to flower more or less simultaneously. However, it has been observed that plants grown from seed collected
New concept for in-line OLED manufacturing

A new concept of a vertical In-Line deposition machine for large area white OLED production has been developed. The concept targets manufacturing on large substrates (≥ Gen 4, 750 x 920 mm 2 ) using linear deposition source achieving a total material utilization of ≥ 50 % and tact time down to 80 seconds. The continuously improved linear evaporation sources for the organic material achieve thickness uniformity on Gen 4 substrate of better than ± 3 % and stable deposition rates down to less than 0.1 nm m/min and up to more than 100 nm m/min. For Lithium-Fluoride but also for other high evaporation temperature materials like Magnesium or Silver a linear source with uniformity better than ± 3 % has been developed. For Aluminum we integrated a vertical oriented point source using wire feed to achieve high (> 150 nm m/min) and stable deposition rates. The machine concept includes a new vertical vacuum handling and alignment system for Gen 4 shadow masks. A complete alignment cycle for the mask can be done in less than one minute achieving alignment accuracy in the range of several 10 μm.
Composition of Government Budget, Non‐Single Peakedness, and Majority Voting

In this paper we study whether majority voting equilibria exist when preferences over public policies are not single peaked. The government levies a proportional income tax. Tax revenue is used to finance a uniform lump-sum transfer and public education. Individuals vote on the composition of the government budget. We show that the single-crossing property cannot be invoked to establish existence of a majority voting equilibrium. In a simple parametric example we find that cycles are pervasive.
A randomized trial comparing the Ambu ® Aura-i ™ with the air-Q ™ intubating laryngeal airway as conduits for tracheal intubation in children.

Summary Objectives To assess the clinical performance of the Ambu Aura-i (Aura-i) in children. Aim To compare the Aura-i with the air-Q intubating laryngeal airway (air-Q) for the purposes of fiberoptic-guided tracheal intubation. Background The Aura-i is a new supraglottic airway designed for tracheal intubation. Materials/Methods One hundred twenty children, ages 1 month to 6 years, were randomized to receive either the Aura-i or air-Q, and divided into three equal subgroups (Group 1, 2, 3) based on weight. The time for successful tracheal intubation was primarily assessed. The ease, time, and number of attempts for successful device insertion, leak pressures, fiberoptic grade of laryngeal view, number of attempts time for removal of the device after tracheal intubation, and complications were secondarily assessed. Results Device placement, tracheal intubation, and removal after tracheal intubation were successful in all patients. There were no differences in the time to successful tracheal intubation through the Aura-i (32.9 ± 13.3 s), and the air-Q (33.9 ± 13 s; P = 0.68), or fiberoptic grade of view between devices. There was not a statistically significant correlation between the time to intubation and the fiberoptic grade of laryngeal view in any of the groups. There were no statistically significant differences in the overall leak pressures, air-Q (18.3 ± 6.1 cm H2O) vs Aura-i (16 ± 5.1 cm H2O; P = 0.05). In Group 1 (5–10 kg), leak pressures were higher with the air-Q (23.4 ± 7.2 cm H2O) than the Aura-i (16.1 ± 5.2 cm H2O; P = 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in the time for removal between the two devices (P = 0.11). However, with the size 1.5 Aura-i, the pilot balloon of the tracheal tube was removed in order to facilitate the removal of the device after tracheal intubation. Conclusions Both devices served as effective conduits for fiberoptic-guided tracheal intubation. The limitation of the narrower proximal airway tube of the size 1.5 Aura-i should be considered if cuffed tracheal tubes are to be utilized.
Preconception Health of Reproductive Aged Women of the Mississippi River Delta

Optimal preconception health (PCH) may improve maternal and infant outcomes, priority issues in Mississippi (MS). Our study objective was to compare the PCH of women in the MS Delta to other regions. We analyzed Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data from 2005, 2007, and 2009, and limited analyses to 171,612 non-pregnant black and white women 18–44 years of age. Region was defined as 14 MS Delta counties (MS Delta), remainder of MS (MS non-Delta), Delta states (LA, AR, TN), and non-Delta US states. We calculated adjusted prevalence ratios (aPR) to assess associations between region and 16 indicators of optimal PCH, controlling for demographic characteristics. Healthy PCH factors such as consuming ≥5 fruits and vegetables daily and normal body mass index (18.5 kg/m2 to <25 kg/m2), respectively, were more prevalent in the MS non-Delta (aPR = 1.3; 95 % CI: 1.0,1.7 and aPR = 1.2; 95 % CI: 1.0,1.4), non-MS Delta (aPR = 1.5; 95 % CI: 1.2,2.0 and aPR = 1.3; 95 % CI: 1.1,1.5) and non-Delta states (aPR = 1.7; 95 % CI: 1.3,2.2 and aPR = 1.4; 95 % CI: 1.2,1.6) compared to the MS Delta. Physical activity levels were higher among non-Delta US states compared to the MS Delta (aPR = 1.3; 95 % CI: 1.1,1.4). Household income and race confounded the associations between region and PCH. Reproductive aged women in the MS Delta had poorer PCH, particularly for physical activity and nutrition, than women in other regions. MS Delta service providers and public health practitioners should consider implementing or enhancing lifestyle, nutrition, and physical activity interventions, with a special focus on reducing income-based and racial disparities.
Toxicity of triorganotin compounds to the brine shrimp, Artemia salina

The 14 triorganotin compounds that were screened against the brine shrimp, Artemia salina, were least effective against the first nauplii stage (24 h). This was attributed to the presence of a yolk membrane which reduced the contact between the triorganotin compounds and the organism. The data indicated that the species responsible for the toxicity is primarily the hydrated triorganotin cation. However, the anion X group may also play a minor role in the toxicity of these compounds. The observed order of activity for the triorganotins does not parallel their hydrophobicities, indicating that other factors must be involved in the toxicity mechanism. Copyright © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integrability of the periodic Kostant–Toda flow on matrix loops of level k

Abstract In this note, we announce results on the Liouville integrability of the periodic Kostant–Toda flow on loops of matrices in s l ( n , C ) of level k.
Reason and Guesswork in the Definition of Rape

I want to thank Professors Berger, Thomas, and Wertheimer for their generous remarks. Our few disagreements are all either trivial or adequately discussed in our respective essays. But I will correct a couple of minor misimpressions that I may have created. I agree with Professor Wertheimer that (at least in most contexts) consent is better understood in objective rather than subjective terms. I think that my analysis suggested this, but my terminology probably did not. Perhaps I should have said “lack of desire” instead of “subjective nonconsent.” Concerning drinking, I’m not sure that Wertheimer and I disagree at all, except (apparently) in our hunches about whether, in a “substantial” number of drunken-victim cases, the victim is wholly passive. Naturally, I welcome Professor Berger’s graceful retraction of her remarks about Alston. Professor Berger points out that Schulhofer’s parable about the doctor is not essential to the case for an affirmative-consent rule. I agree that it is not essential, but it may be decisive. At least in the abstract, everyone favors an affirmativeconsent rule in the surgical context. Therefore, if Schulhofer’s analogy is valid, it follows that the same rule should be adopted in the sexual context. Professor Schulhofer himself goes so far as to suggest that the procedure for consent to a rectal probe is analogous to the proper procedure for consent to sex. In other words, he
Study on the Harmless Treatment of Valve Regulated Lead-Acid Batteries in Substations

It is reported that large quantities of valve regulated lead-acid batteries used in the substations shall be harmlessly treated, for lead plates, sulfuric acid and other compositions are direct hazard for the environment. Herein, we have carried out the investigation on the reconstruction and reuse of the used VRLA, battery reconditioning, influence of spent VRLA to the environment, storage condition obeying to environment of state grid and directed cycle model of recycling technologies.
Quantitative Assessment of Supraorbital Osseous Bar Stability and Symmetry after Frontal Orbital Advancement for Unilateral Coronal Craniosynostosis

Frontal-orbital advancement is the accepted surgical treatment for correcting the cranial deformity associated with premature fusion of one of the coronal cranial sutures. Removal and reshaping of the brow and lower forehead bone is performed to correct ipsilateral frontal flattening and parietal bulging, recession of the supraorbital rim, and contralateral forehead bossing. In addition to the functional aspects of the treatment, bilateral symmetry is one desirable outcome that is difficult to achieve because of the recessive movement and shape changes of the supraorbital rim that continue to occur over a prolonged period of time after the operation. Surgeons often over correct the deformity to compensate for post-operative recession and achieve better symmetry at skeletal maturity. This study is to quantitatively evaluate the stability and symmetry of the repaired supraorbital rim after the craniofacial reshaping procedures in patients with unilateral fusion of the coronal suture. CT scans taken at pre-op, post-op and two years later were available for digital analysis. Quantitative methods are developed to calculate the magnitude of advancement, magnitude of movement in the two years period following the surgery, and supraorbital bilateral symmetry at all three time points. Quantitative statistics of the post-op supraorbital rim stability will provide clinically relevant information for surgical planning that could optimize surgical technique.
Psychological effects of liver disease and transplantation

Psychological adjustment in children with liver disease was investigated. Three groups of children 6–15 years old participated: ten had undergone a liver transplant (Gp1), 15 had ongoing chronic liver disease (Gp2) and 15 were healthy controls (Gp3). Children who had had a transplant appeared well adjusted and thought of themselves as healthy rather than ill, although areas of vulnerability were present, for example increased anxiety. No differences emerged in terms of coping with common or illness-related problems or understanding of the causes of illness and use of medication. Gps 1 and 2 showed higher levels of understanding of the functions of the liver but less understanding of illness prevention when compared to their healthy peers. Gp2 experienced less control over their health when compared to the other two groups. Gp1 rated themselves as more “healthy” than Gp2 but less so than Gp3. Conclusion Children with chronic liver disease are able to communicate how they deal with the stresses of the condition. Though well adjusted in many ways, those who have had a transplant still show areas of psychological vulnerability which need to be addressed in clinical practice.
Exchange of N2O and CH4 between the atmosphere and soils in spruce-fir forests in the northeastern United States

We measured the exchange of N2O and CH4 between the atmosphere and soils in 5 spruce-fir stands located along a transect from New York to Maine. Nitrous oxide emissions averaged over the 1990 growing season (May–September) ranged from 2.1 ug N2O-N/m2-hr in New York to 0.4 ug N2O-N/m2-hr in Maine. The westernmost sites, Whiteface Mtn., New York and Mt. Mansfield, Vermont, had the highest nitrogen-deposition, net nitrification and N2O emissions. Soils at all sites were net sinks for atmospheric CH4 Methane uptake averaged over the 1990 growing season ranged from 0.02 mg CH4-C/M2-hr in Maine to 0.05 mg CH4-C/m2-hr in Vermont. Regional differences in CH4 uptake could not be explained by differences in nitrogen-deposition, soil nitrogen dynamics, soil moisture or soil temperature. We estimate that soils in spruce-fir forests at our study sites released ca. 0.02 to 0.08 kg N2O-N/ha and consumed ca. 0.74 to 1.85 kg CH4 C/ha in the 1990 growing season.
Overview of the halogen occultation experiment

The HALOE experiment will fly on the Upper Atmosphere Research Satellite (UARS) in the last quarter of 1991. The experiment uses the solar occultation limb sounding approach, in combination with gas filter and broadband radiometry to provide measurements of temperature profiles and key gases in the ClO(y), NO(y), and HO(y) chemical families of the middle atmosphere. The instrument has been characterized in great detail to determine gains, spectral response, noise, crosstalk, field-of-view, and thermal drift characteristics. A final end-to-end test using a gas cell to simulate the atmosphere demonstrated measurement repeatability to about 1 percent and agreement between measured and calculated signals to within about 1 percent to 3 percent. This latter agreement provides confidence in knowledge of both the hardware as well as the software.© (1991) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Screening methods for influenza antiviral drug discovery

Introduction: Influenza antiviral high-throughput screens have been extensive, and yet no approved influenza antivirals have been identified through high-throughput screening. This underscores the idea that development of successful screens should focus on the exploitation of the underrepresented viral targets and novel, therapeutic host targets. Areas covered: The authors review conventional screening applications and emerging technologies with the potential to enhance influenza antiviral discovery. Real-world examples from the authors' work in biocontained environments are also provided. Future innovations are discussed, including the use of targeted libraries, multiplexed assays, proximity-based endpoint methods, non-laboratory-adapted virus strains, and primary cells, for immediate physiological relevance and translational applications. Expert opinion: The lack of successful anti-influenza drug discovery using high-throughput screening should not deter future efforts. Increased understanding of the fu...