cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
High phase order transmission

The technology of high phase order (HPO) transmission and its benefits to the power industry are described. Instead of transmitting power with the same number of phases as it was generated, HPO transmission alters the power generated into 6, 9, or even 12 phases. This process results in some unique benefits, which are described. HPO transmission is explained by reviewing the phasor relationships for three, six, and twelve-phase systems. A brief outline of the history of HPO research in the United States is included. An explanation of the reasons behind the environmental benefits as well as technical issues covering the equipment modifications for the conversion is considered. Some of the factors necessary to determine the economic value of HPO transmission as an alternative to conventional three-phase designs are outlined. >
Comparison among three types of dynamic current distribution control strategies

The authors present comparisons of the performance of three types of dynamic current distribution control strategies for power converters connected in parallel. The controls considered are static ramp pulse width modulation (PWM) control (SRPWM), dynamic ramp PWM control (DRPWM), and peak current PWM control (PCPWM). All of these controls are capable of dynamically distributing the total output current among converters in the system, although there exist several different features in their performance characteristics. The comparison is concentrated primarily on the aspects of controller implementation, system stability, transient behavior, and deviation of current distribution from the desired value. >
Determination of arsenic and arsenicals in foods and other biological materials.

Arsenic residues in food and in the tissues of man and animals have long been recognized as indicative of wide-spread environmental contamination by arsenicals. Although appreciable quantities of arsenic are introduced into the atmosphere through smelting operations, the principal cause of pollution of the general environment is the use of arsenicals for crop protection. Inorganic arsenicals have been used as pesticides for over 250 years, the first published references for which date to 1681 (see ROBBINS et al. 1942). In modern times, organic, as well as inorganic, arsenic compounds have been and continue to be used as insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides. While there was a steady decline in arsenical use in the United States until the early 1970s, demand has recently increased because of restrictions on the use of persisent organochlorine pesticides. In 1973 the agricultural industry consumed over 80% of all arsenic compounds used in the United States (U.S. Department of Interior 1975).
STRATEGIES FOR PASSENGER CAR DESIGNS TO IMPROVE OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN REAL WORLD SIDE CRASHES

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) upgraded the side impact protection requirement in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 214 and added dynamic requirements to reduce the likelihood of thoracic injuries in side crashes. As part of the agency's research in developing the requirements of the standard, NHTSA developed a mathematical model for simulation of side impacts. This paper investigates the overall safety performance, based on Thoracic Trauma Index (TTI) as the criteria for passenger cars in real world side crashes, with the aid of the simulation model. A Thoracic Trauma Index Factor (TTIF) is utilized to compare relative safety performance of passenger cars under various conditions of impact. The concept of relating energy dissipation in various side structure and padding countermeasures is used to develop a family of curves that are representative of a design platform. Anticipated improvement in overall TTI and the influence of certain countermeasure characteristics when the vehicle is exposed to many different impact conditions is also presented. The methodology described in the paper could be used by vehicle designers and manufacturers in setting design goals.
Legal Stories, Change, and Incentives – Reinforcing the Law of the Father

This article addresses the problems for women and children latent in recent suggestions to use the law to create incentives for men to use birth control. It examines these problems in the context of exploring the ways in which various narratives about the family are generated and used as society confronts changes in intimate behavior. The search for incentives is undertaken as part of a contemporary reexamination of what constitutes responsible male sexuality and fatherhood. The story of responsible reproduction and the role of incentives has significant social consequences that are perhaps even more important than the potential for individual harm. The focus on paternity proceedings designed to tie men to single mothers and their children financially is a moral to the story, which has significant ideological implications. It obscures the magnitude and dimensions of the economic deprivations that make it difficult for women who make decisions to reproduce or to raise their children. The stories we are telling our families, whether traditional or reconfigured, continue to justify sanctions and punitive reforms that create disadvantages for women and children.
The correction of ill-formed input using history-based expectation with applications to speech understanding

A method for error correction of ill-formed input is described that acquires dialogue patterns in typical usage and uses these patterns to predict new inputs. Error correction is done by strongly biasing parsing toward expected meanings unless clear evidence from the input shows the current sentence is not expected. A dialogue acquisition and tracking algorithm is presented along with a description of its implementation in a voice interactive system. A series of tests are described that show the power of the error correction methodology when stereotypic dialogue occurs.
Components of the nuclear envelope and their role in human disease.

The nuclear envelope is composed of the nuclear lamina, nuclear pore complexes and nuclear membranes. The outer nuclear membrane is very similar to the rough endoplasmic reticulum. The pore membranes contain unique integral proteins and are associated with nuclear pore complexes. The inner nuclear membrane is associated with heterochromatin and the nuclear lamina, a meshwork of intermediate filament proteins called lamins. In humans, lamins are encoded by three genetic loci, LMNA, LMNB1 and LMNB2. Mutations in LMNA cause a spectrum of inherited diseases, including autosomal dominant Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy and related striated muscle disorders, partial lipodystrophies, a peripheral neuropathy and progeria syndromes. Eighty or more transmembrane proteins may reside primarily in the inner nuclear membrane but only several have been fairly well characterized. These include emerin, which is mutated in X-linked Emery-Dreifuss muscular dystrophy, LAP2, MAN1 and LBR. LBR binds to B-type lamins and chromatin proteins and shares sequence similarities with sterol reductases. Heterozygous mutations in LBR cause Pelger-Huet anomaly, characterized by morphologically abnormal neutrophil nuclei, and homozygous mutations cause HEM/Greenberg skeletal dysplasia, characterized by developmental abnormalities and 3 beta-hydroxysterol-epsilon-14-reductase deficiency. Further studies of nuclear envelope proteins may uncover additional unsuspected relationships to human disease.
Isolation of a herpes simplex virus-specific antigenic fraction which stimulates the production of neutralizing antibody.

Abstract Infection of mammalian cells with herpes simplex virus (HSV) results in the production of a number of virus-induced soluble antigens. Immunodiffusion analyses of the soluble antigen mixture (SAM) obtained from HSV-infected KB or BHK cells revealed at least six well-defined immunoprecipitin bands. Calcium phosphate chromatography (Brushite) was employed to separate one immunoprecipitin (designated CP-1) from the remaining viral and host antigens. We conclude that CP-1 is a viral-specific antigen because (i) specific antiserum, which had been repeatedly absorbed with uninfected cell extracts or serum components, still retained the capacity to react in gel diffusion with CP-1 antigen; (ii) anti-CP-1 serum reacted in gel diffusion with SAM, yielding one precipitin band in identity with the band formed against human gamma globulin; (iii) the CP-1 fraction stimulated the production of HSV-neutralizing antibody of high capacity. The last observation suggests that fraction CP-1 contains a biologically active structural component of the virus which is associated with the envelope. The CP-1 immunoprecipitin was separated from SAM by an alternative method by using a cyanogen bromide-linked immunosorbent prepared from anti-CP-1 gamma globulin. The observation that the CP-1 antigen isolated from the immunosorbent effectively blocked serum-neutralizing activity provided further evidence that neutralizing antibody was directed against CP-1. Acrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunological experiments suggest that the CP-1 antigen is in part a glycoprotein. The finding that CP-1 contains only one antigenic component of the virus will permit future biological studies to be made with a monoprecipitin antiserum. In addition, the techniques described in this paper represent initial steps in the purification of HSV antigens.
The ins and outs of erythroid heme transport

Within the cell, heme is synthesized in the mitochondria and is subsequently transported to the cytosol for incorporation into hemoglobin and other hemoproteins. Because excess free heme is cytotoxic, intracellular heme must be maintained at levels that support function while preventing cellular damage. There is growing evidence that the tight control of intracellular heme lev els is accomplished by coordination of heme synthesis, degrada tion, and trafficking between intracellular compartments. 2 In contrast to the well-characterized biochemistry of heme synthe sis and degradation, the mechanisms of heme transport remain somewhat obscure. Feline leukemia virus subgroup C receptor ( Flvcr1 ) is the cellsurface receptor for a retrovirus that causes pure red cell aplasia in cats. It was first cloned by Janis Abkowitz’s group, who later demonstrated that Flvcr1 exports heme and is essential for fetal erythropoiesis using Flvcr1 -null mice.
Some Endocrine Aspects of Skin Sensitization and Primary Irritation

1. OBSERVATIONS ON THE INFLUENCE OF CORTISONE ON CUTANEOUS IRRITATION AND SENSITIZATION INDUCED BY VARIOUS CHEMICAL COMPOUNDS It has long been known that there is some relationship between immune reactions and the function of the adrenal cortex. Thus, Wolfrom and Zwemer (1935) (1) have shown that adrenalectomized animals are more sensitive to anaphylactic shock than are normal animals, and that injection of adrenal cortex hormone increases the resistance to anaphylactic shock. It has not been possible, however, to obtain the same effect with ACTH or cortisone (2). Dougherty, Chase and White (3, 4) have found that injections of ACTH or adrenal cortex hormone into immunized animals cause a marked destruction of their lymphocytes and an increase in the concentration of gamma globulin and antibodies in their blood. These experiments have stimulated an increased interest in the antibody mechanism, and a number of papers concerning this problem have been published. The results vary in many respects. Thus, for example, Fischel, LeMay and Kabat (5) could not demonstrate any increase in the antibody concentration after treatment with cortisone, while Bj0rneboe, Fischel and Stoerk (6), as well as Germuth and Ottinger (7) found a decrease.
Nonmonotonic OWA operators

The basic properties of the Ordered Weighted Averaging (OWA) operator are recalled. The role of these operators in the formulation of multi-criteria decision functions, using the concept of quantifier guided aggregation, is discussed. An extended class of OWA operators, one based upon a relaxation of the requirements on the OWA operators, is introduced. This relaxation allows us to consider a new branch of OWA operators, NOMOWA operators, which have negative weights and which exhibit nonmonotonicity. Some special cases of these operators are discussed and then we investigate the role of these nonmonotonic operators in the formulation of multi-criteria decision functions.
Strength and Creep Behavior of Rare‐Earth Disilicate–Silicon Nitride Ceramics

The flexural strength and creep behavior of RE2Si2O7–Si3N4 materials were examined. The retention in room-temperature strengths displayed by these ceramics at 1300°C was 80–91%, with no evidence of inelastic deformation preceding failure. The steady-state creep rates, at 1400°C in flexural mode, displayed by the most refractory materials are among the lowest reported for sintered Si3N4. The creep behavior was found to be strongly dependent on residual amorphous phase viscosity as well as on the oxidation behavior of these materials. All of the rare-earth oxide sintered materials, with the exception of Sm2Si2O7–Si3N4, had lower creep strains than the Y2Si2O7–Si3N4 material.
Effects of a polychlorinated biphenyl and a polychlorinated dibenzofuran on molting of the fiddler crab, Uca pugilator.

Several species of aquatic crustaceans have been found to accumulate polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) from their environment. Specifically~ NIMMO et al. (1971b) showed that the fiddler crab, Uca pugi!ator , accumulates the PCB, Aroclor 1254~ from contaminated sediments. However, there are no published reports on the possible effects of PCBs on the physiology of the fiddler crab. We undertook a series of experiments to determine the effect of the PCB, Aroclor 1242, on the rate of molting of the fiddler crab, Uc__~apugilator. Fairly recently, however, polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) have not only been shown to be impurities in PCBs, but also to exceed the toxicity of PCBs in chick embryo assays by approximately four to six orders of magnitude (VOS et al., 1970; BOWES et al., 1975a,b). Consequently, reported effects of PCBs, as in mortality studies such as that of NIMMO et al. (1971a) with the pink shrimp, Penaeus duorarum, may have been due in large measure to contaminating PCDFs. Therefor~ in the present investigation experiments were also performed to determine the effect of a PCDF on the rate of molting, the PCDF concentration used being that found in Aroclors by BOWES et al. (1975b). Use of such a PCDF concentration would allow us to determine whether any effects on molting were due to Aroclor 1242 or to perhaps only PCDF contamination of the Aroclor.
Ca/P ratio effects on the degradation of hydroxyapatite in vitro.

Phase purity is a well-recognized but not well-understood variable affecting the biological integration of hydroxyapatite (HA)-based biomaterials. Minor amounts of specific, relevant impurities--calcium oxide (CaO) and tricalcium phosphate (TCP)--may often be present either as deliberate additions or as a result of decomposition during sintering. We investigated the influence of these two impurities in terms of their effects on surface morphology, weight loss/gain, and microstructural-level degradation. Phase purity variations were deliberately introduced into an otherwise-standardized HA matrix--the parent HA grain size and bulk density were relatively constant--produced using identical fabrication conditions. Stability varied markedly during exposure to mildly acidic, neutral, and pH 7.4 phosphate-buffered saline. Equivalent molar variations in the Ca/P ratio (1.62 vs 1.72) on either side of the stoichiometric ratio produce relatively small volumetric amounts of CaO (1.6 vol%) versus TCP (27 vol%) in HA. However, the relatively small amounts of CaO render the bulk more susceptible to degradation and more likely to have negative effects on a biological milieu. Interestingly, the presence of CaO is also a potent nucleating agent for the precipitation of new surface phases and detectable weight gain. The TCP-containing ceramic, in contrast, paradoxically exhibited slightly greater resistance to degradation than HA.
ON-LINE VISCOMETRY FOR PUREED BABY FOOD: CORRELATION of BOSTWICK CONSISTOMETER READINGS and APPARENT VISCOSITY DATA

The relationship between Bostwick Consistometer (BC) readings and apparent viscosity was evaluated as an initial step in developing an on-line viscometer for pureed baby food. Rheological properties of three baby food products (applesauce, carrots, and vegetable beef dinner) were investigated using a BC and a concentric cylinder viscometer in a temperature range from 73 to 92 C. Shear-thinning, power law fluid behavior was found for all products. the overall correlation between results of the two methods of measurement, considered in terms of the Bostwick readings and apparent viscosity, was very poor. Developing an on-line viscometer for pureed baby food products based on the relationship between Bostwick readings and apparent viscosity is not recommended.
A two-step feature selection method for monitoring tool wear and its application to the coroning process

Coroning is a complex and multi-directional gear finishing process involving metal removal of gear teeth surface, and condition monitoring has not been applied to this process. In order to capture the progress of wear, an acoustic emission (AE) sensor is used, but the large data size of AE requires extensive dimension reduction and feature selection. The conventional method of averaging to reduce the data size may have the risk of losing information as higher frequencies are filtered off. A two-step feature selection method is implemented using class mean scatter criterion and modified relevance/redundancy analysis. This method results in feature dimension reduction and enhances classification performance. It involves first ranking candidate features by calculating their separability. Features which are correlated are then combined to reduce dimensions without averaging. Application of this two-step feature selection technique enables coroning tool wear to be monitored with a classification rate of 98.3 % compared to 94.1 % using conventional feature selection.
Macon Memories: An Oral History Project at Randolph-Macon College

Librarians at Randolph-Macon College's McGraw-Page Library initiated an oral history project to capture the memories of long-time faculty, staff, and alumni. This article describes the mission and development of the Macon Memories Oral History Project; reviews administrative, legal, and policy considerations surrounding research design, technology issues, preservation, description, and access; and outlines the procedures and resources necessary for initiating and maintaining an oral history project.
Importance of the Lon Protease in Mitochondrial Maintenance and the Significance of Declining Lon in Aging

Mitochondria are a major intracellular source of free radicals and related oxidants. It is generally agreed that the mitochondrial production of such reactive oxygen and nitrogen species increases with age. Antioxidant systems in the mitochondria play an important role in limiting the amount of oxidative damage to tolerable levels. The Lon protease degrades oxidatively modified proteins in the mitochondrial matrix, a function similar to that of the 20S proteasome in the cytoplasm. Recently it was shown that inactive aconitase, a preferential substrate for the Lon protease, might be involved in the maintenance of the mitochondrial genome. Lon protease expression and activity declines with age, which may contribute to the accumulation of the oxidatively modified protein aggregates typically observed in aging and diseased cells. In addition, Lon has multiple functions, such as DNA binding and chaperone activity, for the assembly of respiratory complexes in the Electron Transport Chain. Taken together, Lon and aconitase may be key players in the maintenance of mitochondrial homeostasis under conditions of stress, and (partial) compromise of their function may contribute to both aging and degenerative diseases.
Influence of Prior Knowledge and Interest on Fourth- and Fifth-Grade Passage Comprehension on the Qualitative Reading Inventory—4

Purpose In 2 experiments, we examined the influence of prior knowledge and interest on 4th- and 5th-grade students' passage comprehension scores on the Qualitative Reading Inventory—4 (QRI–4) and 2 experimenter-constructed passages. Method In Experiment 1, 4th- and 5th-grade students were administered 4 Level 4 passages or 4 Level 5 passages from the QRI–4. Prior knowledge was assessed by key concept questions from the QRI–4. Interest was rated on a 5-point scale. In Experiment 2, 4th- and 5th-grade students were administered 2 passages from the QRI–4 and 2 experimenter-constructed passages. One general question was used to assess prior knowledge, and 3 measures were used to assess interest. Results Prior knowledge as measured by key concept questions on the QRI–4 or a general question had minimal impact on passage comprehension. More important, only one third of the prior knowledge questions on the QRI–4 were related to a comprehension question. When these question pairs were analyzed, having prior knowl...
Comment on “The role of electrostatic induction in secondary isotope effects on acidity” by E. A. Halevi, New J. Chem., 2014, 38, 3840

We reaffirm our conclusion that secondary deuterium isotope effects on acidity are due to n–σ* delocalization that decreases vibrational frequencies and zero-point energies. We reject an electrostatic or inductive explanation that arises from the anharmonicity of the C–H bond. We address calculated values of atomic charges, dipole moments, and dipole-moment derivatives dμ/dr, and we show the isotope effect to be a stereoelectronic phenomenon arising from harmonic vibrations.
Delivery of cold hydrogen in glass fiber composite pressure vessels

Abstract We are proposing to minimize hydrogen delivery cost through utilization of glass fiber tube trailers at 200 K and 70 MPa to produce a synergistic combination of container characteristics with properties of hydrogen gas: (1) hydrogen cooled to 200 K is ∼35% more compact for a small increase in theoretical storage energy (exergy); and (2) these cold temperatures (200 K) strengthen glass fibers by as much as 50%, expanding trailer capacity without the use of much more costly carbon fiber composite vessels. Analyses based on US Department of Energy H2A cost and efficiency parameters and economic methodology indicate the potential for hydrogen delivery costs below $1/kg H 2 . Dispensing cold hydrogen may also allow rapid refueling without overtemperatures and overpressures which are typically as high as 25%, simplifying automotive vessel design and improving safety while potentially reducing vessel weight and cost. Based on these results, we suggest hydrogen delivery by truck with trailers carrying hydrogen gas at pressures as high as 70 MPa, cooled to approximately 200 K in glass fiber vessels.
Topoisomerase IV is a target of quinolones in Escherichia coli

We have demonstrated that, in Escherichia coli, quinolone antimicrobial agents target topoisomerase IV (topo IV). The inhibition of topo IV becomes apparent only when gyrase is mutated to quinolone resistance. In such mutants, these antibiotics caused accumulation of replication catenanes, which is diagnostic of a loss of topo IV activity. Mutant forms of topo IV provided an additional 10-fold resistance to quinolones and prevented drug-induced catenane accumulation. Drug inhibition of topo IV differs from that of gyrase. (i) Wild-type topo IV is not dominant over the resistant allele. (ii) Inhibition of topo IV leads to only a slow stop in replication. (iii) Inhibition of topo IV is primarily bacteriostatic. These differences may result from topo IV acting behind the replication fork, allowing for repair of drug-induced lesions. We suggest that this and a slightly higher intrinsic resistance of topo IV make it secondary to gyrase as a quinolone target. Our results imply that the quinolone binding pockets of gyrase and topo IV are similar and that substantial levels of drug resistance require mutations in both enzymes.
Blood pressure surge precedes intracerebral hemorrhage

Introduction: Most patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) have very high blood pressure (BP) on presentation, but it is unclear whether such pressure elevation is the cause or a consequence of the ICH. This controversy could be clarified by determining the exact temporal relationship between the BP elevation and the onset of the ICH. Several case reports have attributed ICH to specific situations in which the BP was inferred to be high. Unfortunately, those cases lacked continuous monitoring of BP and neurological exam.
Resistance to Taking a Critical Stance

Although empowerment education has had much success in adult literacy programs, its future depends on preparing teachers to work within an empowerment framework. A common challenge in empowerment education, whether in adult literacy programs or teacher education programs, is student resistance to the whole notion of empowerment. In this paper, we explore such resistance in the graduate ESL teacher preparation program at the University of Massachusetts. Using a postmodern critical and feminist framework, we analyze student resistance to the invention and critique of “facilitation,” a role designed to help small groups invent and critique theories and methods of teaching. Both students and professors alike resist taking a critical stance toward their own inventions. Two practices, however, have been helpful in our struggles to deal with our mutual resistance in ways that maintain the empowerment framework: (a) communities of resistance and (b) student writing and research. Our goal in documenting our struggles is to help those who want to work within the empowerment framework deal with resistance in their classrooms.
Guidelines for the Prevention of Intravascular Catheter-related Infections: Recommendations Relevant to Interventional Radiology for Venous Catheter Placement and Maintenance

The 2011 Guidelines for the Prevention of Intravascular Catheter-Related Infections contain comprehensive, current recommendations for the selection, placement, maintenance and replacement of catheters used for venous access. This material is directly relevant to the day-to-day practice of interventional radiology. Highlights of the Guidelines are presented here. The Guidelines contain additional recommendations related to pediatric use, arterial lines and other topics, and extensive background information and references. Review of the entire document is suggested for all physicians who perform venous access procedures.
Outcome after major renovascular injuries: a Western trauma association multicenter report.

BackgroundMajor renal vascular injuries are uncommon and are frequently associated with a poor outcome. In addition to renal dysfunction, posttraumatic renovascular hypertension may result, although the true incidence of this complication is unknown. The objective of this study was to describe the f
Cardiovascular effects of cocaine during pregnancy

Cocaine administration during pregnancy results in major maternal cardiovascular effects that in some cases exceed those observed in the nonpregnant state. Animal studies have shown increases in heart rate and blood pressure and decreases in regional organ blood flow. Fetal effects include arterial hypoxemia, increases in blood pressure and heart rate, and increases in cerebral blood flow that may be related not only to hypertension and hypoxemia, but also to direct effects on cerebral blood vessels. Fetal intestinal blood flow is decreased. These effects may be related to the clinical consequences of cocaine use during pregnancy.
Comparison of low-frequency piezoceramic shunt techniques for structural damping

In this paper, the performances of two novel low frequency piezoceramic shunt techniques for structural damping are compared to the traditional passive tuned resonant shunt circuit techinque. The first novel technique, state switching, is a semi-active variable stiffness technique in which bonded piezoceramic actuators are switched from the short circuit to open circuit states. This technique changes the stiffness of the structure for two quarters of its vibration period, thus dissipating energy. The second novel technique, synchronized switching, is a semi-active continuous switching technique in which a resistor/inductor shunt circuit is periodically connected to the bonded piezoceramic actuators. This technique applies charges to the piezoceramic actuators in a manner similar to the Direct Velocity Feedback and Bang-Bang time optimal control techniques. A brief description of each of the damping techniques is given. Numerical simulations of the switching techniques are shown and compared to the resonant shunt damping technique. Finally, preliminary experimental results are presented for the resonant shunt, state, and synchronized switching techniques on a simply supported beam.© (2001) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Federal democracy and liberty

Federalism figures prominently in Alexis de Tocqueville's Democracy in America (1969) because federalism is a fundamental constitutive principle of the American polity and because federalism aims to achieve conditions that Tocqueville regarded as essential for liberty in a democratic age. These conditions lie principally, though not entirely, in the preservation of local liberty. Local liberty allows and encourages individuals in small civil communities to participate together in defining and addressing their common needs and aspirations and, thereby, to learn how to express their self-interest-as rightly, rather than wrongly or selfishly, understood-in ways that defend individual liberty and republican citizenship against the atomizing, enervating effects of a mass democracy driven toward centralization and uniform legislation by popular clamoring for equality. Yet, federalism has an uncertain future, even in the United States, according to Tocqueville, as well as limited applicability to democratic polities forged in the ashes of an ancien regime.
Vitamin K2 stimulates osteoblastogenesis and suppresses osteoclastogenesis by suppressing NF-κB activation

Several bone protective factors are reported to exhibit stimulatory activities on bone formation coupled with inhibitory effects on bone resorption; one such factor is vitamin K2. Vitamin K species [K1 (phylloquinone) and K2 (menaquinone)] have long been associated with bone protective activities and are receiving intense interest as nutritional supplements for the prevention or amelioration of bone disease in humans. However, the mechanisms of vitamin K action on the skeleton are poorly defined. Activation of the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) signal transduction pathway is essential for osteoclast formation and resorption. By contrast, NF-κB signaling potently antagonizes osteoblast differentiation and function, prompting us to speculate that NF-κB antagonists may represent a novel class of dual anti-catabolic and pro-anabolic agents. We now show that vitamin K2 action on osteoblast and osteoclast formation and activity is accomplished by down-regulating basal and cytokine-induced NF-κB activation, by increasing IκB mRNA, in a γ-carboxylation-independent manner. Furthermore, vitamin K2 prevented repression by tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) of SMAD signaling induced by either transforming growth factor s (TGFs) or bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2). Vitamin K2 further antagonized receptor activator of NF-κB (RANK) ligand (RANKL)-induced NF-κB activation in osteoclast precursors. Our data provide a novel mechanism to explain the dual pro-anabolic and anti-catabolic activities of vitamin K2, and may further support the concept that pharmacological modulation of NF-κB signal transduction may constitute an effective mechanism for ameliorating pathological bone loss and for promoting bone health.
Absolute isotopic abundance ratios of three common lead reference samples

Abstract The absolute isotopic abundance ratios have been determined for three common lead reference samples, using solid-sample mass spectrometry. Samples of known isotopic composition, prepared from nearly pure separated 206Pb and 208Pb isotopes, were used to calibrate the mass spectrometers. The resulting absolute values are as follows: GS 4: 204Pb/206Pb = 0.061888 ± 0.000065, 207Pb/206Pb = 0.95342 ± 0.00036, 208Pb/206Pb = 2.2181 ± 0.0010; NBS 200: 204Pb/206Pb = 0.068353 ± 0.000072, 207Pb/206Pb = 1.00538 ± 0.00038, 208Pb/206Pb = 2.3675 ± 0.0011; C.I.T. Pb Std.: 204Pb/206Pb = 0.060151 ± 0.000063, 207Pb/206Pb = 0.93081 ± 0.00035, 208Pb/206Pb = 2.1835 ± 0.0010. The indicated uncertainties are overall limits of error based on 95% confidence limits for the mean and allowances for effects of known sources of possible systematic error.
Estimating operation times from machine center arrival and departure events

We develop a methodology for using bar code scanner timing information from an automated shop floor data collection system to estimate operation times within a flexible manufacturing system environment. The purpose of the methodology is to estimate mean operation times for multiple product types when the scanning only occurs when products arrive to and depart from a machine center. This methodology partially reconstructs the shop floor operations from captured bar code scanner timing information and then through the use of regression techniques estimates the mean operation times for each of the product types. This paper develops and evaluates the methodology within an operational context. The accuracy and precision of the estimators is evaluated via discrete event simulation under various experimental conditions to identify key factors which effect the performance of the estimators. We identified guidelines for achieving estimator accuracy and we applied the estimator to an actual industrial situation.
Regression Analyses of Race and Sex Bias in Seven Preschool Tests

Tests for bias under the regression definition were carried out for seven major tests used to predict first-grade performance on the Metropolitan Achievement Tests, over a 12-month interval, using Potthoff's (1966) method. Analyses were con ducted to evaluate bias in prediction for 322 children across sex and race (black-white). In the 112 tests for bias, only 13 significant differences in prediction occurred; in each case intercept bias was present that resulted in the overprediction of minority performance on the criterion measures. Correlation coefficients between pre- and post-tests were also compared across groups. For the 112 comparisons of validity coefficients, only two showed any race or sex differences, a chance finding at p < .05.
An in situ oxidation strategy towards overcoming hERG affinity

In an effort to overcome hERG affinity with a lead compound, several S-oxide and N-oxide analogues were synthesised with a much improved hERG profile but low in vivo absorption. This led to the implementation of an in situ oxidation strategy wherein a sulfide was dosed orally and systemic levels of the corresponding sulfoxide and sulfone were monitored. SAR and pharmacokinetic data to support this as a possible strategy are presented, although ultimately the approach was shown not to be suitable due to very low levels of active circulating metabolites.
A Device for Making Time Studies

Time studies are used in dc arc emission spectrography to establish certain arcing parameters through observations of the selective volatilization process. The time of entrance of an element into the arc gap, its rate of volatilization, and its time of exhaustion are important facts to be determined when analytical procedures are being set up. Further, time-sampling can provide information as to changing temperatures in the arc gap and lead to a means of making matrix corrections.
A Comparison of Some Tropical Ocean Models: Hindcast Skill and El Niño Evolution

Abstract Tropical Pacific SST hindcasts are examined in the Zebiak and Cane (Lamont), Latif (MPIZ), Oberhuber (OPYC), and GFDL ocean models, each forced by the same wind-stress fields over the 1970–85 time interval. Skill scores reveal that, although all the models exhibit significant skill, the regions where the skill is maximized differ from model to model. The simplest model (Lamont) has maximum skills in the eastern basin near the boundary while the three GCMs have maxima in central Pacific regions. We also examine, via canonical correlation analysis (CCA), the heat budgets of the surface layers of the Lamont, MPIZ, and OPYC models. We find that although similar spatial relationships exist for the mechanisms that excite SST anomalies (i.e., zonal advection, meridional advection, and vertical advection/mixing), the balance of the strength of them terms is different for each model. Vertical advection tends to control the large-scale structure of SST in the Lamont model, meridional advection provides the...
Preoperative Gastrointestinal Assessment Before Bariatric Surgery

Obesity is a major health problem throughout the world. Bariatric surgery is frequently considered among the treatment options for the severely overweight, and surgically induced weight loss has become the best treatment for many morbidly obese people. A preoperative assessment to evaluate the suitability of a patient for a given operation and to clarify factors that may affect the outcome of a planned procedure should be carried out before the surgery. Preoperative evaluation of the gastrointestinal tract by a gastroenterologist before bariatric surgery yields important information that can lead to changes in planned treatments. This article discusses the factors that a gastroenterologist should assess before the surgery.
Cd4, cd8 and the tcr-cd3 complex: a novel class of protein-tyrosine kinase receptor

A novel form of receptor-kinase interaction was first described in the interaction between the CD4 and CD8 antigens and the protein-tyrosine kinase p56lck. This linkage, between a regulatory antigen on T cells and a member of a family of intracellular molecules with an established ability to activate and transform cells, is likely to be of great importance in the regulation of T-cell growth. Recently, data have been obtained on the molecular basis of regulation of the CD4/CD8-p56lck interaction and an interaction between the T-cell receptor complex (TCR-CD3) and another src-kinase p59fyn has been described. Here, Christopher Rudd examines these interactions and outlines their potential roles in normal and malignant T-cell growth.
Evaluation of different marking methods for spiny-cheek crayfish (Orconectes limosus)

Different methods of marking were evaluated for Orconectes limosus (CL = carapace length, 12–37 mm) under laboratory conditions: the use of passive integrated transponders, visible implant elastomers, visible implant alphanumeric tags, and cauterization. High survival (> 90%) was obtained with all methods tested. Tag retention and readability were evaluated immediately after marking, before and after ecdysis, with moult increments and number of moults been recorded. Marking using cauterization negatively affects the percent moult increment (PMI) of crayfish. The average PMI of 15 ± 0.88% did not differ between males (15 ± 1.41 mm) and females (15 ± 1.12 mm). It was found that PMI gradually decreased with an increase in CL. Sixty-one moults were observed, with 12 crayfish (6 juveniles and 6 adults) presenting two moults. Time between moults varied from 3 to 7 weeks. CL was increased with over 28 ± 2.68% due to two moults. Three females moulted twice after successful hatching and carrying of juveniles.
The Determination of Quartz in Airborne Respirable Granite Dust by Infrared Speetrophotometry

An infrared technique for the determination of quartz in respirable granite dusts is described which has been used in a survey of the granite industry to obtain with reasonable confidence a general picture of the quartz dust concentrations to which workers are exposed. The procedure is simple and can be carried out by technicians. In our laboratory we have been processing 30 to 35 samples per day, with about an additional ⅓ day required for scanning the KBr pellets. Pellets are mounted and may be permanently retained. Sample calculation is simple and can be readily adapted for machine calculation or computer. By this method of analysis, it should be possible to establish a TLV based on milligrams of respsrable quartz per cubic meter or air, either in place of or in addition to the presently accepted TLV.
Rapid protein profiling with a novel anion-exchange material

Abstract A new anion-exchange material has been developed which allows very rapid resolution of protein mixtures. The MicroanalyzerTM MA7P matrix consists o Chromatography on Microanalyzer MA7P columns is characterized by very narrow bandwidths, even at relatively high flow-rates. This is due to the combine
Synthesis, Characterization, and Thermal Properties of Poly(trimethylene-1,1-dicarboxylate) Polyelectrolytes

The potassium salt of poly(trimethylene-1,1-dicarboxylic acid), the first member of a new polyelectrolyte family where the carbon backbone is substituted on every third carbon by two carboxylate anions, was obtained by hydrolysis of a monodisperse di-n-propyl ester polymer (CH2CH2C(COOnPr)(2))(n). This precursor can be synthesized by anionic ring-opening polymerization of di-n-propylcyclopropane-1,1-dicarboxylate using a polymerization procedure already proved to be living for a similar cyclopropyl monomer. The polyelectrolyte potassium salt was fully characterized by solid-state C-13 NMR, FT-IR, elemental analysis, and thermogravimetry; (TGA), providing clear evidence for a very selective and clean hydrolysis. The malonate ion substructure on the polymer is very stable and does not decompose below 350 degreesC. No procedure could be identified to cleanly decarboxylate the polymer to the monosubstituted system. The polymer is very insoluble in water unless high concentrations of potassium hydroxide are used (> 1 mol L-1), a behavior consistent with the very high symmetry of the polymer and its high tendency to crystallize.
One-loop lattice vacuum energy

Abstract We propose that lattice Monte Carlo methods be used to measure the vacuum energy due to one-loop gauge boson exchange. Depending on the theory involved, this quantity is related to mφ2+−mφ20, to the vacuum alignment problem, or to the masses of composite Higgs bosons.
Adrenocortical cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase: purification, characterization, and modification of its activity by calmodulin, and its relationship with steroidogenesis.

Abstract Cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase has been purified to apparent homogeneity from bovine adrenal cortex and its presence in the rat adrenal cortex has been demonstrated. Sucrose density sedimentation studies indicated that the M r of the enzyme was 145,000. This protein was composed to two identical subunits each with M r of 75,000. The enzyme molecule was asymmetric with a frictional coefficient of 1.54, Stokes radius of 53.5 A and a sedimentation coefficient of 6.5. The enzyme self-phosphorylated and the stoichiometry of cyclic GMP binding was two molecules per holoenzyme. Calmodulin or troponin C markedly stimulated the apparent maximal velocity of cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase without affecting its basal activity. This effect of protein modulators was independent of calcium. Sucrose density gradient studies indicated that the stimulatory effect of calmodulin was due to its interaction with histones. An interaction of calmodulin with the enzyme was not observed. The steroidogenic potential of cyclic GMP and its analogs correlated closely with their ability to stimulate cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase; the order of potency for both activities was 8-bromocylic GMP > cyclic GMP > N 2 -monobutyryl cyclic GMP > N 2 , O 2 -dibutyryl cyclic GMP. In each case, calmodulin enhanced the cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase activity for histone phosphorylation. These results indicate that although cyclic GMP is the primary regulator of cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase, other modulator proteins such as calmodulin could act as additional regulators of the phosphorylation of substrate proteins. In addition, the demonstration of cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase in rat adrenal glands, and the results with cyclic GMP and its analogs relating to their activation of protein kinase and steroidogenesis are consistant with the concept that cyclic GMP is one of the mediators of adrenal steroidogenesis.
The Prediction of Predictability Revisited: Differential Predictability Applied to Managerial Selection

Ghiselli's (1956) differential predictability procedure was applied to individual managerial assessment. Candidates for managerial positions (N = 452) were administered a battery of tests as part of the individual assessment selection procedure. This sample was divided into two equal-size groups; a Derivation Group and a Cross-Validation Group. The criterion was the candidate's organizational level; the predictor was a measure of cognitive ability provided by scores on the Adaptability Test. Need for Financial Reward, a subscale of the Self-Description Inventory, was identified as a moderator in the Derivation Group, however, sub grouping chi-square analyses and moderated multiple regression failed to corroborate this finding. Dependent on the selection ratio, use of the moderator was shown to have some limited utility in the Cross-Validation Group, however, its accuracy did not exceed that obtained through use of regression analysis.
Unemployment, credit rationing, and capital accumulation: a tale of two frictions

This paper develops a model in which two information frictions are embedded into an otherwise conventional neoclassical growth model; an adverse selection problem in the labor market and a costly state verification problem in the credit market. The former allows equilibrium unemployment to arise endogenously while the latter is responsible for equilibrium credit rationing. This structure is used to investigate a theoretical link between the level of unemployment and the extent of credit rationing (and capital formation). The presence of the labor market friction is enough to generate scope for multiple steady state equilibria. The model also generates a large class of endogenous cyclical and chaotic dynamical equilibria. Development trap phenomena may also appear.