cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A 480 MHz 11 mW PR4 Viterbi detector and margin circuit in 0.25 /spl mu/m CMOS

This paper describes a Viterbi detector and margin circuit for PR4 magnetic recording channels. The implementation uses a modified difference-metric formulation of the Viterbi algorithm (VA). A Viterbi margin (VM) function is included for channel quality checking purposes. Modifications and implementation techniques that optimize power consumption and speed are described. The VA+VM circuit includes 24+24 bits of path and margin memory, uses 11 mW of power (7 mW for VA alone) at 480 MHz and occupies 0.052 mm/sup 2/ in a 0.25 /spl mu/m 1.8 V CMOS process.
A simplified approach to determination of saturated synchronous reactances of large turbogenerators under load

This paper details the use of computerized magnetic field solutions, based on magnetic vector potential, to develop a simplified approach to the calculation of saturated values of steady state reactances of turbogenerators under various load conditions. When magnetic nonlinearity of the stator and rotor materials is taken into account, the turbogenerator reactances become dependent on the saturation conditions in the machine, which are a function of the operating conditions (terminal voltage, current and power factor). Quadrature axis synchronous reactances are reduced by as much as 40% from their classical unsaturated values under rated load. Torque angles deduced from the model at rated load are lower by as much as 20% than values obtained by standard methods. The method is applied to two typical 4-pole, 659 MVA and 2-pole, 733 MVA turbogenerators of the gas inner-coaled type. Supportive shop floor test results are provided.
Photorefractrivity in polymers with photoconductivity heated by an electric field

A generalized photorefractive model, that includes influence of the electric field on photoconductivity and birefringence is presented. This model is applied for description of Bragg and non-Bragg self-diffraction in photorefractive polymers in the schemes, suitable for holographic electro-optic modulation.
Behavior of Rydberg atoms at surfaces: energy level shifts and ionization

The ionization of xenon atoms excited to the extreme red and blue states in high-lying Xe(n) Stark manifolds at a metal surface is investigated. The data show that, despite their very different initial spatial characteristics, the extreme members of a given Stark manifold ionize at similar atom/surface separations. This is explained, with the aid of complex scaling calculations, in terms of the strong perturbations in the energies and structure of the atomic states induced by the presence of the surface which lead to avoided crossings between neighboring levels as the surface is approached.
Thermo-chemical nonequilibrium effects on the aerothermodynamics of aerobraking vehicles

A three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics algorithm is developed to study the effect of chemical and thermal nonequilibrium on blunt body aerodynamics. Both perfect gas and five species air reacting gas models are used to compute the flow over the Apollo command module. The reacting gas air mixture is assumed to be governed by a translational-rotational temperature and a vibrational temperature. The Navier-Stokes computations are compared to wind-tunnel and flight-aerodynamic data from the Apollo missions. The effects of chemical reaction and vibrational excitation on lift-to-drag ratio and trim angle are investigated. It is shown that including real gas effects results in a lower trim angle and L/D than predicted by nonreacting gas wind-tunnel simulations. The reacting gas numerical results are consistent with flight data from the unmanned Apollo AS-202 mission, whereas the perfect gas computations agree with the extrapolated preflight wind-tunnel results.
Ultraviolet Radiation as an Attractant for Adult Horn Flies

The positive phototactic response of horn flies, Haemalabia irritans (L.), to the UV and violet-blue regions of the spectrum was evaluated as a possible attractant. Fifteen and 40-watt Blacklight Blue, Blacklight, and Daylight fluorescent lamps were used as light sources in small-cage studies where only flies were present and in large-cage studies where both flies and a cow were present. At night attraction of horn flies was greatest to light from a Blacklight Blue lamp. This lamp was more attractive to the flies than a cow which was present in the cage.
The “visco-plastic” approximation to Hart's constitutive law for inelastic deformation

Abstract Hart's constitutive law for inelastic deformation of metals in uniaxial loading is described. For sufficiently low temperature or high strain rates, Hart's constitutive law in uniaxial loading is accurately approximated by a simpler law termed the visco-plastic approximation. In the viscoplastic approximation Hart's “plastic” element reduces to a classical rate independent power-law work hardening plastic material. An error bound for the visco-plastic approximation is estimated. Analyses are carried out for some simple deformation histories, including a constant plastic strain rate test, to elucidate the content of Hart's law.
Pregnancy-Associated Laminitis in Mares

From the Departments of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery; Biomedical Science Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri Columbia, MO. Results of this study were presented as an abstract at the Fourth International Conference on Laminitis and Diseases of the Foot, West Palm Beach, FL. Reprint requests: Philip J. Johnson, Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at Clydesdale Hall, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, 900 Ea Campus Drive, Columbia, MO 65211. 0737-0806/$ see front matter 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. doi:10.1016/j.jevs.2008.11.009
Cost reductions or reputation enhancement as motives for mergers: The logic of multihospital systems

This paper examines two motives for the formation of local multihospital systems: cost reduction and reputation enhancement. Systems may reduce costs by eliminating redundancies and reducing administrative costs. Integration may also lower costs for consumers seeking consistently high qualiiy. We hypothesize that if systems achieve either cost or reputation benefits, then member hospitals will ‘look’ different from random collections of hospitals. We find that local systems do not appear to have lower costs but do appear to enjoy reputation benefits over nonsystem hospitals. Our findings challenge the assumptions behind popular health reform initiatives.
Increasing use of stimulants warns of potential abuse

SIR — Your Editorial ‘Defining natural’ (Nature452, 665–666; 2008) indicates that cognitive-enhancing drugs have only mild effects similar to caffeine, and the News story ‘Poll results: look who's doping’ (Nature452, 674–675; 2008) highlights the general increase in availability through Internet purchase and possibly diversion of prescriptions of the cognitive enhancers. However, by far the most frequently prescribed of these — the stimulant medications amphetamine and methylphenidate — have abuse potential and warrant particular concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) tracks by country the yearly production, supply and consumption of psychotropic substances, including stimulant drugs. The most recent figures suggest to us that diversion of methylphenidate and amphetamine may be increasing in the United States. From 1995 to 2006, consumption estimates by the WHO and prescriptions recorded by the healthcare information company Verispan®-One National have both increased linearly. Moreover, the relative increase in the WHO estimates of consumption (268.9%), from 4.66 to 17.9 defined daily doses per 1,000 population, during this decade far exceeded the relative increase in number of prescriptions per year, from 15,044,359 to 30,137,136 (100.3%). The greater increase in consumption could be related to a shift in the age of individuals treated for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, as more adults are now seeking diagnosis and treatment. This could influence debate over whether some prescriptions for clinical treatment of adults are being appropriated instead for performance enhancement or recreational purposes. History teaches us that either of these could escalate into misuse. We have serious concerns that the dramatic increase in national consumption and the smaller, but still large, increase in annual prescriptions of stimulant medications could be signalling possible diversaion, and should make us vigilant to avoid a potential repeat of past episodes of potential abuse.
Studies on the Utilization of Vitamin E Alcohol and Esters by the Chick

Abstract Experiments were conducted to evaluate the utilization of dl-α-tocopherol, dl-α-tocopheryl acetate and a water-soluble ester, d-α-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol 1000 (TPGS), as dietary sources of vitamin E for the chick. Results showed that tocopheryl acetate is utilized with efficiency equal to that of vitamin E alcohol at dietary concentrations less than or equal to approximately 40 ml dl-α-tocopherol equivalents per kg. At greater dietary concentrations of the vitamin, the alcohol form appeared to be better utilized than the acetate when it was adequately stabilized in the diet. However, TPGS was poorly utilized at all dietary levels examined. Saponification of both esters improved the utilization of vitamin E from these sources. The utilization of all forms of vitamin E was depressed in hypervitaminotic A chicks and, to a lesser extent, in chicks fed ethoxyquin.
High-damage-threshold pinhole for glass fusion laser applications

We are investigating methods to fabricate high-damage-threshold spatial-filter pinholes that might not be susceptible to plasma closure for relatively high energies and long pulses. These are based on the observation that grazing-incidence reflection from glass can withstand in excess of 5 kJ/cm{sup 2} (normal to the beam) without plasma formation. The high damage threshold results from both the cos q spreading of the energy across the surface and the reflection of a large fraction of the energy from the surface, thereby greatly reducing the field strength within the medium.
Abstract 2226: Loss of STAG2 in bladder cancer

Proceedings: AACR Annual Meeting 2014; April 5-9, 2014; San Diego, CA Bladder cancer (BC), 90% of which have transitional cell histology, is the fourth most common malignancy in the US. Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC), which occurs predominantly in men and whose incidence appears to be increasing, occurs most frequently as superficial disease which, while prone to recurrence, is not life threatening. However, TCC which invades the muscle layer of the bladder (stage T2-T4) is lethal in ∼50% of individuals. Stage T2-T4 TCC is present at initial diagnosis in ∼30% of patients and superficial TCC progresses to T2-T4 disease 20% of the time. We sequenced whole exomes of 28 muscle-invasive bladder tumors and performed an additional screen of over 200 genes in 119 additional TCCs. We found frequent alterations (10%) in STAG2, a gene encoding a subunit of the cohesin complex, which regulates the sister chromatids segregation process. Most mutations identified on STAG2 were nonsense, missense or frameshift. Genetic disruption of the sister chromatid segregation process leads to aneuploidy, which is one of the hallmarks of cancer. Based on recently published studies, however, it is uncertain whether a loss of STAG2 causes aneuploidy or not. In this study we sought to elucidate the role of STAG2 loss of expression in bladder tumorigenesis. We have analyzed the expression of STAG2 in 14 urothelial cell lines at both mRNA and protein levels by means of q-PCR and western blots, respectively. We found that STAG2 expression was lost in 2 of the 14 urothelial cell lines (HB-CLS-2 and UM-UC-3) analyzed. We chose SV-HUC (immortalized normal urothelium cells) along with two bladder cancer cell lines that had high expression of STAG2 (HB-CLS-1 and TCC-SUP) to study effects of STAG2 loss by transient knockdown. Knockdown of STAG2 in SV-HUC, TCC-SUP and HB-CLS-1 cells did not affect proliferation. Cell cycle analysis on TCC-SUP cells revealed that STAG2 knockdown resulted in a lower percentage of cells in the G0/G1 phase in comparison to the scrambled control. Taken together, these data suggest that STAG2 has a role in modifying DNA content but not proliferation. Our ongoing studies utilizing bladder cancer tissue microarray (TMAs) and copy number variation (CNV) array will help to clarify the consequences of STAG2 loss in bladder cancer. Citation Format: Nithya Krishnan, Anna Woloszynska-Read, Jianmin Wang, Song Liu, Carl Morrison, Khurshid Guru, Evelyn Smit, Donald Trump, Candace Johnson. Loss of STAG2 in bladder cancer. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 105th Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2014 Apr 5-9; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2014;74(19 Suppl):Abstract nr 2226. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2014-2226
OPTIMAL ALLOCATIONS OF JOINT (COMMON) COSTS: A PARAMETRIC PROGRAMMING APPROACH

A parametric programming model for allocating joint costs is described and illustrated. Given M mutually exclusive missions and P alternative systems for accomplishing such missions, the model first determines the optimal choice of systems for all missions simultaneously. It then allocates both joint and separable costs such that no mission receives a greater cost allocation than any other mission alternative that might be suboptimal for the mission but nonoptimal when all missions are simultaneously considered. Although the model initially assumes a mission priority ranking, this assumption is relaxed later on as alternative rankings are evaluated and cost allocation ranges under all priority rankings are evaluated.
Peer Debriefing in Qualitative Research: Emerging Operational Models:

Using a qualitative research methodology detailed by Lincoln and Guba, peer debriefing sessions were examined by interviewing education graduate students who completed dissertations and who partici...
Induced hypotensive anesthesia for adolescent orthognathic surgery patients

ments would require a cleaner surgical field, and the surgeon would be more likely to assign a poorer rating to a complex case given a similar surgical field. The cases in each group were not randomly distributed with respect to this parameter. Contraindications to the use of IHA often relate to preexisting poor organ perfusion and oxygen delivery, but these problems are not typically or routinely found in healthy adolescent population. Thompson et al’ demonstrated that there was no difference in organ function indices between a control group and an induced hypotensive group undergoing total hip arthroplasty. In that study, the mean ages of the control and two study groups were over 57 years. Enderby reported nine deaths during 9,107 hypotensive anesthetics. McNulty et al9 showed no adverse clinical sequelae after induced hypotensive anesthesia using labetalol in 10 orthognathic surgery patients. Similarly, no significant complications were cited in the studies using various methods of IHA.‘.‘,‘” There also were no indications of poor organ perfusion, as demonstrated by clinical followup and laboratory assessment parameters in our group of patients. In conclusion, induced hypotensive anesthesia results in decreased blood loss and improves the surgeon’s rating of the surgical field.
Experimental determination of the chromium-aluminum mixing parameter in garnet

Abstract The equilibrium Grossular + Quartz = Anorthite + 2 Wollastonite was used to obtain the mixing properties of Cr and Al in grossular-uvarovite solid solutions by determining displacement of the univariant boundary curve for measured values of x gross gt . Experiments were performed in a piston cylinder apparatus with initial garnet compositions Gr100, Gr80Uv50, Gr50Uv50, and Gr20Uv80. Reversals were obtained in the temperature range 1040°C–1320°C and corrected pressure range 10–17 kbar. Results indicate that grossular-uvarovite solutions can be modeled as nearly ideal two-site solid solutions. WGCr,Al of +200 to + 1000 cal/mole is consistent with our experimental results.
“Classical” and “atypical” antipsychotic drugs: Differential antagonism of amphetamine- and apomorphine-induced alterations of spontaneous neuronal activity in the neostriatum and nucleus accumbens

The ability of clozapine and haloperidol to antagonize the depression of firing rate produced by d-amphetamine and apomorphine in the neostriatum and nucleus accumbens was tested in immobilized, locally anesthetized rats. In the neostriatum, an intraperitoneal injection of 2.5 mg/kg d-amphetamine or 1.0 mg/kg apomorphine produced a prolonged inhibition of neuronal activity that was reversed by a subjsequent injection of either 20 mg/kg clozapine or 2.0 mg/kg haloperidol. An analysis of the onset and magnitude of the blockade revealed that clozapine was more effective than haloperidol in reversing the amphetamine response but that both antipsychotic drugs produced a comparable blockade of the apomorphine-induced depression. Similar results were obtained in the nucleus accumbens. The data indicate that although clozapine acts equieffectively in the neostriatum and nucleus accumbens, this atypical antipsychotic drug, aside from blocking postsynaptic dopamine receptors, may exert at least some of its effects by preventing dopamine release.
Orientational properties of fibrous aerosols in atmospheric turbulence

Abstract Experimental and computational results of the orientational properties of relatively large fibrous aerosols dispersed in the turbulent atmospheric boundary layer are presented. The mean orientation of the fibers is compared with independent measurements of the variance in the strain rate field, 〈E2ij〉, associated with the turbulent air motion. Millimeter wave depolarization measurements were used to obtain ensemble average orientation of the dispersed fibers. A spectral analysis of data obtained from nearly collocated and simultaneous high-frequency hot wire probe measurements was employed to estimate 〈E2ij〉. A distinctive correlation is found between decreasing 〈E2ij〉 and increasing horizontal orientation of the fibers. For a given 〈E2ij〉 significantly different levels of horizontal orientation are observed depending on the fiber length and diameter. A simple model of the motion of a straight rigid fiber in a turbulent viscous medium is presented. This model qualitatively describes the relationship between fiber geometry and relative mean orientation; However, it consistently over estimates the observed mean orientation. Discrepancies may be due to either deficiencies in the model, the quality of the dispersed fibers, or both.
WOMEN ATHLETES AS FALSELY ACCUSED DEVIANTS: Managing the Lesbian Stigma

As the behavior of women athletes is often interpreted to violate gender norms, women athletes are frequently devalued and stigmatized. The present study examines the manner in which such devaluati...
Polyaromatic assembly mechanisms and structure selection in carbon materials

This article reports on the interfacial behavior of large liquid-phase polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in pitches that are common precursors to carbon materials. Experiments were conducted to identify preferred angles of molecular orientation (“surface anchoring” states) and to measure contact angles on a variety of well-characterized substrates. The results show that the large disklike polyaromatic molecules exhibit anomalously weak noncovalent interactions with a variety of surfaces, a fact that we attribute to inhibition of dispersion forces due to geometric mismatch at the interface. It is further found that large polyaromatics prefer edge-on molecular orientation at most interfaces, a configuration that preserves internal aromatic π−π bonds at the expense of inhibited π−surface bonds. A theory of π−π bond preservation is proposed to explain many aspects of wetting, adsorption, anchoring, and supramolecular assembly in this important class of compounds, including the formation mechanism for the class...
Solenoidal circulations resulting from lateral mixing

Within the broad current-systems of the atmosphere, lateral (isentropic) shearing stresses must develop whenever the gradient wind-velocity varies from one current-filament to the next within the same isentropic sheet. If such a current-filament moves more rapidly than its isentropic environment, it will be subjected to a retarding force; if it moves more slowly, it will be subjected to an accelerating force. It is evident that the frictional volume-forces resulting from isentropic miximg must be very nearly parallel to the current-axis whenever steady motion prevails.
Class Ethos and Politeness

This article lends quantitative support to the notion that politeness is variable across social strata, and provides linguistic evidence for the notion of a "social class ethos.' This difference is shown to be encoded in ordinary usage, within the genre of direction giving. Interpretation of the natural language data collected is based here on Brown and Levinson's "politeness theory" (1978, 1987). The data give evidence that middle-class speakers are more likely to make use of the more elaborated negative politeness strategy, with suggestions being issued in an indirect way. Workingclass speakers tend to choose the "bald-on record" strategy, suggesting directions in the form of direct bald imperatives. Variable speaker perceptions of social distance across the two classes give the results found in the data.
Evolving Roles of NGOs in Member State Decision-Making in the UN System

NGOs have become involved in virtually all issues on the agendas of organizations throughout the UN system, with their presence facilitated by 90 liaison offices. They play a diversity of roles in public sessions of decision-making bodies and also perform a variety of roles in private meetings in which preparations arc made for public meetings. At the same time, their involvements with secretariats involve an even broader range of activities, including regular meetings, representation on committees, involvement in symposia, receiving papers posted on UN websites, joint research, joint implementation and monitoring of UN programs and even standing in for UN agencies. Involvement of NGOs in global governance is growing in dynamic ways at a time in which financial restraints are severely limiting capacity of the UN system to respond.
Observation of Spin Injection at a Ferromagnet-Semiconductor Interface

Spin injection at a ferromagnet-semiconductor interface is observed by projecting the spin-polarized current in the ferromagnet onto the spin-split density of states of a high mobility two-dimensional electron gas (2DEG). For a given polarization of carriers in the 2DEG, reversing the magnetization orientation of the ferromagnet modulates the interface resistance. Equivalently, reversing the polarization of the 2DEG carriers by reversing the bias polarity gives the same resistance modulation. Interface resistance changes of order 1% at room temperature indicate interfacial current polarizations of order 20%.
A hepatocyte-targeted conjugate capable of delivering biologically active colchicine in vitro.

A derivative of colchicine was synthesized, in a manner that preserved its important structural features, and conjugated to an asialoglycoprotein. The conjugate was characterized by ultraviolet−visible spectrophotometry and protein analysis. An average coupling ratio of 2 mol of colchicine per mole of asialoglycoprotein was achieved. The conjugate was stable to incubation in serum but was split into its separate components under chemically reducing conditions. Incubation with cells in culture revealed that the conjugate had antiproliferative activity similar to that of colchicine, but only in asialoglycoprotein receptor-containing cells. There was no effect at all on asialoglycoprotein receptor (−) cells. Furthermore, the antiproliferative effect of the conjugate on receptor (+) cells was blocked by addition of a large molar excess of free asialoglycoprotein. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed disruption of microtubules in cell cultures that were pretreated with the conjugate. These results indicate t...
A model for load-transfer from an embedded fiber to an elastic matrix

Abstract A model is presented for approximating load-diffusion from axially loaded fibers embedded in elastic matrices. The fundamental elastostatic solutions used are for a point force and a point dilatation in either a fully-infinite or semi-infinite space. Tangential tractions across the fibermatrix interface are included explicitly in the analysis. The model is applied to the three-dimensional analogs of Melan's first problem and Reissner's problem and comparisons are made with exact results in the case of the former to help establish the validity of the model.
A Random-walk, Particle Tracking Model for Well-mixed Estuaries and Coastal Waters

Abstract Random-walk particle tracking models have been advantageously applied to the simulation of transport by groundwater. This paper presents the development and analysis of a depth-averaged random-walk particle tracking model for simulating transport in vertically well-mixed estuaries and coastal waters. The model is tested by comparing simulated concentrations and residence times with corresponding analytical solutions for a one-dimensional estuary. Excellent agreement is obtained.
A Raman spectral study of the dehydration of calcium oxalate monohydrate

Calcium oxalate monohydrate (CaC2O4·H2O) is a major constituent in human urinary calculi. Vibrational spectral studies for this compound provide useful structural information concerning such calculi. Shippey measured the vibrational spectra of calcium oxalate monohydrate at room temperature, and made band assignments for these spectra. Recently, Duval and Condrate measured the Raman spectra of this compound through the P21/n-I2/m phase transition at 45°C, and were able to make band assignments for the two phases. They noted that the high-temperature phase coexisted with the low-temperature phase in powdered samples at room temperature. This study systematically explained the temperature dependence of band features below the dehydration temperature. The current study investigates the Raman spectra for calcium oxalate monohydrate at higher temperatures and through the dehydration temperature. Structural information is also obtained at higher temperatures for anhydrous calcium oxalate that is thermodynamically stable.
SU‐FF‐T‐313: Low Energy Experimental Elastic Cross Sections for Medical Physics Application

Purpose: Elastic cross sections for electron energies below 10 MeV are fundamental quantities needed in treatment planning systems used at hospitals and health facilities. To date, there is very little if not no data within that energy regime. Method and Materials: In collaboration with the high current, high energy resolution continuous electron beam of the Department of Energy's Jefferson Lab accelerator, we have performed a first stage of dedicated experiments with energies of 100–150 keV to collect data for this type of reactions. The targets used were gold,copper and silver. A Mott scattering chamber was used to detect the outgoing electrons. Results: We will present the first results of this program that aims at performing a wide range of measurements including the use of polarization data for spin studies. Conclusion: This research will provide much needed electron cross section data in the 100–150 keV range for treatment planning,dose calculation, and development of mono energetic Brachytherapy sources. The effects of polarization on cancer cell response will also be studied.
Crystal structure of 2,4-di- para -methoxyphenylcyclobutadiene-1,3-quinone

The crystal structure of 2,4-di-p-methoxyphenylcyclobutadiene-1,3-quinone has been been determined using three-dimensional X-ray data collected by means of a Picker FACS-1 four-circle diffractometer. The crystal used was one of four modifications of this compound, two low density (1.38 g cm−3) and two high density (1.54 g cm−3) forms, obtained by us, depending on crystallization conditions. The space group isP¯1, with unit cell dimensionsa = 3.89,b = 10.80,c = 9.03 A, α = 77.88, β = 74.12, γ = 85.15 °D m = 1.38 g cm−3 andZ = 1. A least-squares refinement of the positional and anisotropic thermal parameters gave a finalR-value of 6.0% for 364 reflections and 121 variables. The zwitter-ionic nature of the molecule can be seen in both the partial delocalization of the bonds in the 4-membered ring (which is square-planar) and the bonds joining thep-phenylene and 4-membered rings. The nearly planarp-phenylene rings themselves are quinone-like in structure and are parallel, but not coplanar. The columnar packing of the molecules resembles that of graphite, and observed interplanar spacing is 3.64 A.
Photoenhanced oxidation of stainless steels: An Auger electron spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy study

Abstract The photoenhanced oxidation of several types of stainless steels under high flux (about 2 MV m −2 ) visible-UV irradiation has been investigated. Oxidation rates were studied under photoirradiation with both a broad-band xenon discharge source and a variety of lasers. Substantial enhancement of oxidation was observed for all photoirradiated samples as compared with reference samples oxidized under similar conditions but with IR heating. A quadratic dependence on photon flux was obtained for the oxide thickness over the flux range 0–2 MW m −2 . A threshold wavelength for the oxidation enhancement was found at about λ = 410 nm. The enhanced oxidation under photoirradiation is believed to result from the photoreduction of the antidiffusion barrier oxides Cr 2 O 3 and FeCr 2 O 4 otherwise found under IR heating. This photoreduction of the barrier oxides was found to occur at wavelengths consistent with the threshold wavelengths ( λ = 400–425 nm) for the photodesorption of CO and CO 2 from stainless steels, indicating that the two events are intimately related.
Glycohydrolase contamination of commercial enzymes frequently used in the preparation of fungal cell walls

Commercial enzyme preparations frequently used in the preparation of fungal cell walls, viz., proteases, a lipase, and a phosphatase, were examined for the presence of contaminating glycohydrolase activity, since such activity could result not only in the removal of cytoplasmic constituents but also in the removal of portions of the wall itself. Glucosidase activities were detected in a protease of fungal origin, in a lipase from wheat germ, and in a phosphatase from potatoes. Additionally, two commercial protease preparations from Streptomyces griseus contained β-1,3-glucanase activity in significant amounts, a third contained trace amounts of the glucanase, but a fourth was totally free of glycohydrolase activity. The protease preparations from S. griseus released laminaribiose from yeast-phase cell walls of Histoplasma capsulatum chemotypes I and II, but only trace amounts of glucose were released. One protease was examined more closely and was found to be optimally active on laminarin at pH 5.5 and 50°C. It was also highly active on the same substrate at pH 8.0 and 37°C, however. A protease preparation from Aspergillus oryzae released glucose from the yeast-phase cell walls of H. capsulatum chemotypes I and II as well as from cell walls of Blastomyces dermatitidis, suggesting that the preparation contained both α- and β-glucanases.
A review of the Monopeltis capensis complex in southern Africa (Reptilia: Amphisbaenidae)

BROADLEY, D.G. 1997. A review of the Monopeltis capensis complex in southern Africa (Reptilia: Amphisbaenidae). Afr. J. Herpet. 46(1): 1–12. The amphisbaenians presently assigned to Monopeltis capensis and M. zambezensis appear to represent a complex of five sibling species. In 1978, Branch found that M. C. rhodesiana has a very different karyotype (2n = 36) from typical M. capensis (2n = 34), suggesting that it should be treated as a full species. M. capensis Forms A, B and C interdigitate and are sometimes sympatric or parapatric in the Limpopo basin with no indication of intergradation, so “Form B” is named as a new species (infuscata sp. nov.) and the name M. decosteri Boulenger 1910 is revived for “Form C”.
The metabolic demands of swimming behavior influence the evolution of skeletal muscle fiber design in the brachyuran crab family Portunidae

We investigated the influence of intracellular diffusion on muscle fiber design in several swimming and non-swimming brachyuran crabs. Species with sustained swimming behavior had aerobic dark fibers subdivided into small metabolic functional units, creating short diffusion distances necessary to support the high rates of aerobic ATP turnover associated with endurance activity. This dark fiber design was observed in all swimming species including Ovalipes ocellatus, which has apparently evolved swimming behavior independently of other Portunidae. In addition, we observed fiber and subdivision size-dependent differences in organelle distribution. Mitochondria, which rely on oxygen to function, were uniformly distributed in small fibers/subdivisions, but were clustered at the fiber periphery in larger fibers. The inverse pattern was observed for nuclei, which are not oxygen dependent, but rely on the transport of slow diffusing macromolecules. Phylogenetically independent contrast analysis revealed that these relationships were largely independent of phylogeny. Our results demonstrate cellular responses to diffusion that were necessary for the evolution of swimming and that are likely to be broadly applicable.
Localization of insulin-like growth factor-1 mRNA in murine central nervous system during postnatal development.

Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is believed to play a role in the regulation of brain growth. The identity of cells responsible for its synthesis in the immature brain, however, has not been established. To identify potential sites of IGF-1 synthesis, in situ hybridization has been utilized to localize IGF-1 mRNA in the murine brain during the first postnatal month. Although IGF-1 mRNA was detected in all regions of the neonatal brain, there was considerable regional variation in the level of expression. Neurons were the principle sites of IGF-1 mRNA expression and expression was typically restricted to one or two neuronal cell types within each region. In the cerebellar cortex, for example, only Purkinje cells hybridized to the IGF-1 probe. In contrast to gray matter, IGF-1 labeled cells were rarely found in presumptive white matter tracts of the forebrain. The hybridization signal was most prominent in regions where neurogenesis persisted after birth, including the cerebellum, olfactory bulb, and hippocampal complex. The timing of IGF-1 mRNA expression appeared to be temporally related to local neuronal proliferation. The number of labeled cells and intensity of hybridization signal was greatest during the first 2 postnatal weeks, a period of rapid neuronal proliferation in these regions. At the end of the first month, when neurogenesis had essentially ceased, IGF-1 signal strength had declined to background levels. The temporal and spatial pattern IGF-1 mRNA expression in the immature CNS was consistent with a role for locally produced IGF-1 in the regulation of brain development.
Short-distance walking speed tests in people with Parkinson disease: Reliability, responsiveness, and validity

Abstract Purpose The aims of this study were to determine test–retest reliability and responsiveness of short-distance walking speed tests for persons with Parkinson disease (PD). Discriminant and convergent validity of walking speed tests were also examined. Methods Eighty-eight participants with PD (mean age, 66 years) with mild to moderate severity (stages 1–4 on the Hoehn and Yahr Scale) were tested on medications. Measures of activity included the comfortable and fast 10-m walk tests (CWT, FWT), 6-min walk test (6MWT), mini balance evaluations systems test (mini-BEST Test), fear of falling (FoF), and the Activity-Specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC). The mobility subsection of the PD quality of life-39 (PDQ39-M) served as a participation-based measure. Results Test–retest reliability was high for both walking speed measures (CWT, ICC2,1 = 0.98; FWT, ICC2,1 = 0.99). Minimal detectable change (MDC95) for the CWT and FWT was 0.09 m/s and 0.13 m/s respectively. Participants at Hoehn & Yahr levels 3/4 demonstrated significantly slower walking speed with the CWT and FWT than participants at Hoehn & Yahr levels 1 and 2 (P Conclusions Short-distance walking speed tests are clinically useful measures for persons with PD. The CWT and FWT are highly reliable and responsive to change in persons with PD. Short distance walking speed can be used to discriminate differences in gait function between persons with mild and moderate PD severity. The CWT and FWT had moderate to strong associations with other activity and participation based measures demonstrating convergent validity.
Investigation of the cytotoxic effects of DNA damaging agents on neurofibromatosis cells

Summary Cells cultured from individuals with neurofibromatosis, a genetic syndrome associated with a predisposition to malignancy, were studied. We examined survival as measured by colony formation in skin fibroblasts from 5 patients with neurofibromatosis after exposure to X-rays, ultraviolet light and an alkylating agent. We did not observe mutagen hypersensitivity in neurofibromatosis cells as compared to normal controls.
Patient race and surgical outcomes after total knee arthroplasty: an analysis of a large regional database.

Objective To examine racial differences in surgical complications, mortality, and revision rates after total knee arthroplasty. Methods We studied patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty using 2001–2007 Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council data. We conducted bivariate analyses to assess the risk of complications such as myocardial infarction, venous thromboembolism, wound infections, and failure of prosthesis, as well as 30-day and 1-year overall mortality after elective total knee arthroplasty, between racial groups. We estimated Kaplan-Meier 1- and 5-year surgical revision rates, and fit multivariable Cox proportional hazards models to compare surgical revision by race, incorporating 5 years of followup. We adjusted for patient age, sex, length of hospital stay, surgical risk of death, type of health insurance, hospital surgical volume, and hospital teaching status. Results In unadjusted analyses, there were no significant differences by racial group for either overall 30-day or in-hospital complication rates, or 30-day and 1-year mortality rates. Adjusted Cox models incorporating 5 years of followup showed an increased risk of revisions for African American patients (hazard ratio [HR] 1.39, 95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.08–1.80), younger patients (HR 2.30, 95% CI 1.96–2.69), and lower risk for female patients (HR 0.81, 95% CI 0.71–0.92). Conclusion In this sample of patients who underwent knee arthroplasty, we found no significant racial differences in major complication rates or mortality. However, African American patients, younger patients, and male patients all had significantly higher rates of revision based on 5 years of followup.
Induced pluripotent stem cells have similar immunogenic and more potent immunomodulatory properties compared with bone marrow-derived stromal cells in vitro

Aim: To evaluate the in vitro immunogenic and immunomodulatory properties of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) compared with bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Materials & methods: Mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) were isolated from C3HeB/FeJ and C57BL/6J mice, and reprogrammed to generate iPSCs. Mixed leukocyte reactions were performed using MHC-matched and -mismatched responder leukocytes and stimulator leukocytes, iPSCs or MSCs. To assess immunogenic potential, iPSCs and MSCs were used as stimulator cells for responder leukocytes. To assess immunomodulatory properties, iPSCs and MSCs were cultured in the presence of stimulator and responder leukocytes. MEFs were used as a control. Results: iPSCs had similar immunogenic properties but more potent immunomodulatory effects than MSCs. Co-culture of MHC-mismatched leukocytes with MHC-matched iPSCs resulted in significantly less responder T-cell proliferation than observed for MHC-mismatched leukocytes alone and at more responder le...
An improved automated procedure for the determination of calcium in biological specimens.

Abstract An improved automated spectrophotometric method for calcium has been described which is directly applicable to serum, plasma, urine, and tissue ash samples. Calcium is determined colorimetrically with CPC in the presence of 8-hydroxyquinoline, which eliminates significant magnesium error. Iron interference, which may be encountered in the analysis of specimens prepared from ashed tissue, has been eliminated by the precipitation of iron with cupferron prior to dialysis. Reproducibility studies, recovery data, and comparisons between other manual and automated calcium techniques are presented.
Multiple comparisons in interim analysis

Interim analysis schemes typically relate to accumulating acquisition of clinical data where statistical decisions facilitate medical or clinical studies with respect to primary endpoint and cost-benefit analysis, as well as examination of other therapeutic aspects. Basically, an interim analysis scheme aims to have multiple looks into accumulating datasets where conventional fixed-sample or sequential setups cannot be totally validated; even the group-sequential procedures may not be basically appropriate. Multiple endpoints, auxiliary and or concomitant variables and clinical designs often invalidate the regularity assumptions underlying conventional (linear) statistical inference tools in interim analysis schemes, and therefore alternative avenues incorporating suitable stochastic processes based on progressively censored schemes are explored. Gaussian approximations are quite helpful in this respect, and a general overview of multiple comparisons in such (time-sequential) setups is presented here with an eye on applications in clinical trials.
Biodiversity loss as material risk: Tracking the changing meanings and materialities of biodiversity conservation

Abstract Several international initiatives, including the World Economic Forum (WEF), aim to constitute biodiversity loss as a material risk to the ‘bottom line’ calculations of investors and insurers. The WEF claims that while no sector ‘escapes untouched by some form of biodiversity risk’, such risks can be transformed into opportunities, and ideally, profit. I trace the key actors, reports, and methodologies producing ‘biodiversity loss as risk’, and outline some of the challenges, paradoxes and implications of this transformation. In particular, I show how biodiversity loss is a difficult to transform into an individuated risk that can cause firms to act otherwise. However, new calculative devices are emerging to help individuate and calculate biodiversity risks for firms. In this paper I focus on two of such devices, the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT) and the Corporate Ecosystem Service Review (CESR). Both tools aim to render biodiversity loss legible in the language and metrics of financial risk. These tools devised to produce biodiversity risk, I argue, have effects. They are changing the way that conservation knowledge is produced, producing new spaces for investment and disinvestment, and are also re-defining the very subject of conservation.
Putative σ3 sites in mammalian brain have histamine H1 receptor properties: evidence from ligand binding and distribution studies with the novel H1 radioligand []-(−)-trans-1-phenyl-3-aminotetralin

Abstract A novel phenylaminotetralin (PAT) radioligand, [ 3 H ]-(1R,3S)-(−)-trans-1-phenyl-3-dimethylamino-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene ([ 3 H ]-[−]-trans-H2-PAT), is shown here to label a saturable (Bmax=39±6 fmol/mg protein) population of sites with high affinity (Kd=0.13±0.03 nM) in guinea pig brain. Consistent with previous studies which showed that PATs stimulate catecholamine (dopamine) synthesis in rat striatum, autoradiographic brain receptor mapping studies here indicate that [ 3 H ]-(−)-trans-H2-PAT-labeled sites are highly localized in catecholaminergic nerve terminal fields in hippocampus, nucleus accumbens, and striatum in guinea pig brain. Competition binding studies with a broad range of CNS receptor-active ligands and CNS radioreceptor screening assays indicate that the pharmacological binding profile of brain [ 3 H ]-(−)-trans-H2-PAT sites closely resembles histamine H1-type receptors. Comparative studies using the histamine H1 antagonist radioligand, [ 3 H ]mepyramine, indicate that the H1 ligand binding profile and guinea pig brain distribution of H1 receptors and [ 3 H ]-(−)-trans-H2-PAT sites are nearly identical; moreover, both sites have about 40-fold stereoselective affinity for (−)- over (+)-trans-H2-PAT. These results are discussed in light of previous studies which suggested that PATs stimulate dopamine synthesis through interaction with a novel sigma-type (σ3) receptor in rodent brain; it now appears instead that PATs represent a new class of ligands for brain histamine H1 receptors that can be stereoselectively labeled with [ 3 H ]-(−)-trans-H2-PAT.
Subsurface ocean argon disequilibrium reveals the equatorial Pacific shadow zone

[1] Surface water in the ocean invades the subsurface vertically, against the density gradient, and along constantdensity surfaces from surface outcrops in high latitudes. We present dissolved argon data that distinguishes a diapycnally ventilated upper thermocline in the equatorial Pacific versus an isopycnally ventilated subtropical location near Hawaii. The lower thermocline is shown to be isopycnally ventilated at both locations, in contrast with theoretical and model predictions. Citation: Gehrie, E., D. Archer, S. Emerson, C. Stump, and C. Henning (2006), Subsurface ocean argon disequilibrium reveals the equatorial Pacific shadow zone, Geophys. Res. Lett., 33, L18608, doi:10.1029/2006GL026935. [2] The chemistry of seawater is altered at the sea surface by exchange of naturally occurring atmospheric gases such as O2 ,C O2, and Ar. The atmospheric imprint on seawater is carried into the ocean interior by fluid flow from the Ekman layer and by mixing, processes known collectively as ‘‘ventilation’’. Pathways and mechanisms of ocean ventilation determine the circulation of the thermocline and affect the ocean response to climate change, uptake of anthropogenic CO2, and the distribution of oxygen and nutrients in subsurface waters. [3] Some parts of the subsurface ocean (e.g. the subtropics) are ventilated by fluid flow. Luyten et al. [1983] postulated that after a fluid parcel is isolated from the atmosphere, its trajectory is governed by conservation of potential vorticity. In oceanic ‘‘shadow zones’’ like the equatorial Pacific, vorticity-conserving fluid flow trajectories intersect the boundaries of the ocean or close in upon themselves, rather than outcropping at the sea surface. Ventilation of shadow zones takes place via eddy or turbulent diffusion, either in the vertical (diapycnal) direction or along isopycnal surfaces.
Higher order moment risk in efficient futures portfolios

Abstract This study examined whether mean–variance (M–V) framework helps to efficiently diversify away tail risk due to skewness, kurtosis, and other higher moments. We found that M–V efficient portfolios do not have significant higher moment risk, because the risk measured by the two-moment value-at-risk (VaR) was not significantly different from risk measured by the higher moment VaRs. This result was not caused by the large number of assets included in the portfolio. With only nine assets in the M–V portfolio, about 85% of the diversifiable loss measured by higher moment VaR was diversified away. Furthermore, with less than nine assets in M–V efficient portfolios, the M–V technique diversified away the higher moment risk even more efficiently than did volatility.