cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Skill in real-time solar wind shock forecasts

[1] Forecasts of 96 shocks in the solar wind at the L1 point made by the HAF kinematic solar wind model made between 5 February and 31 December 2001 are compared with algorithmically determined shocks from real-time data from the SWEPAM and MAG instruments aboard the ACE spacecraft. Traditional measures of forecast skill used by the meteorological community are applied to these forecasts and observations and indicate modest skill in the HAF model. Details of forecast skill are determined using the Briggs-Ruppert skill score which incorporates the costs of forecast error. This new metric is shown by the present example to be a potentially valuable tool to the customer of space weather forecasts in that it focuses on the actual application of the forecasts and identifies economic regimes where a given forecast is potentially valuable.
Laboratory Evaluation of Flex-Cracking Resistance

Abstract A machine has been designed for laboratory evaluation of the flex-cracking resistance of any stock from which a dumb-bell strip may be cut. The conditions under which the stock is tested may be varied at the will of the operator. The results obtained on this machine on tread and sidewall stocks have always evaluated the flex-cracking resistance of stocks in the same order that actual road tests have. MANY factors are involved in the proper compounding of rubber stock. In tread compounding wear resistance is the major consideration, but other factors closely approach it in importance. Among these is the ability to withstand repeated flexing without cracking. Flex cracking produces an unsightly appearance which conveys the idea of inherent weakness in the tire, and also, if the flex cracking becomes very pronounced, the tire may fail from carcass break at that point. A satisfactory tire must not, flex-crack. Flex-cracking resistance is dependent on two things—the stock itself and the stress under w...
Development of a microplate fluorescence assay for kynurenine aminotransferase.

Abstract Inhibition of kynurenine aminotransferases (KATs) is a strategy to therapeutically reduce levels of kynurenic acid (KYNA), an endogenous antagonist of glutamatergic N-methyl- d -aspartate (NMDA) and cholinergic α7 nicotinic receptors. Several methods of measuring KAT activity in vitro have been developed, but none is well-suited to high throughput and automation. In this article, we describe a modification of existing high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)-based methods that enables the development of a 96-well microplate assay in both enzyme- and cell-based formats using human KAT I as an example. KYNA enzymatically produced from l -kynurenine is measured directly in a reaction mixture fluorimetrically.
What Represents in a Representation? A Question Concerning Michel Foucault's "Age Classique"

Meme pendant la periode classique la representation n’est pas de la transparence sans problemes que Foucault lui attribue. Represantation implique re-presentation, donc difference; la representation ne vaut jamais l’original. Cette inevitable difference produit des paradoxes epistemologiques qu’on examinera chez Platon et Locke et dans les ecrits de D’Alembert sur l’Encyclopedie. On portera une attention particuliere a « Ce que tout le monde sait sur l’expression, et quelque chose que tout le monde ne sait pas » par Diderot.
PHENOTYPIC DESIGN, PLASTICITY, AND ECOLOGICAL PERFORMANCE IN TWO TADPOLE SPECIES

This study relates community ecology to phenotypic design in two species of hylid tadpole that share larval habitat on the rocky shoreline of Isle Royale, Michigan. The ecological results indicate that the two species partition a competition-predation gradient on the shore. Pseudacris crucifer is mostly high on the shore at low density in persistent pools with predators (dragonfly larvae, Aeshnajuncea); tadpoles have low individual growth rates and metamorphose late at large body size. Pseudacris triseriata is more variable in growth and development but typically grows more rapidly and metamorphoses earlier. All P. crucifer that attain metamorpho- sis emerge from pools with Aeshna, whereas P. triseriata metamorphose from a mixture of pools with and without predators. A reciprocal transplant experiment showed that both species survived poorly in the upper level pools with predators, which indicates that predation is more important there. The experiment did not show strong competition between the two species in either kind of pool. The phenotypes, including plasticity, of the two species are consistent with their ecological differences. Pseudacris triseriata has traits that functional arguments suggest should assist in processing food: in natural populations it hatches at large size, feeds actively and conspicuously, and has a relatively round body and small tail muscle and tail fin. Pseudacris crucifer has the opposite suite of characters, which functional arguments suggest favor predator avoidance. The variation in larval habitat correlated with differences in plasticity. In the trans- plant experiment, P. crucifer showed little change in phenotype, whereas P. triseriata reduced activity and increased tail fin and tail muscle size in the presence of Aeshna. This study illustrates that ecological differences in tadpoles correlate with behavioral and morphological phenotypes and that phenotypic traits can be used to predict ecological performance in manipulative experi- ments in natural settings. One of the underlying theses of ecology asserts that we can understand the control of communities in terms of interactions, notably competition and preda- tion, between the component populations. A rich experimental tradition has tested this proposition, focusing on interactions among populations. The impor- tance of causal factors is judged according to the impact on population dynamics, judged by experimentally excluding or adding member species in the community (Gause 1934; Connell 1961; Wilbur 1972). This experimental approach, termed phenomenological, has established the causal bases for an increasing number of natural patterns in communities, including the differences in habitat among closely related species.
Effect of jet nebulization on DNA: identifying the dominant degradation mechanism and mitigation methods

Jet nebulization is a common technique by which gene therapies can be delivered to the lungs, however current research has shown a reduction in activity and effectiveness of these treatments when not complexed with cationic agents. To date, a systematic investigation of chemical and mechanical degradation pathways has yet to be undertaken to identify the proximate cause of DNA instability. The purpose of this paper is to identify the dominant chemical and/or mechanical mechanism(s) by which DNA degrades when subjected to jet nebulization. Investigation of multiple degradation pathways revealed hydrodynamic shear to be primarily responsible for the observed loss in DNA integrity. Complexation of DNA with cationic agents polyethyleneimine or poly-L-lysine to DNA was sufficient to overcome these mechanical forces via a reduction in applied hydrodynamic forces.
Metal-Dusting Corrosion of Low-Chromium Steels

Metal dusting is an aggressive form of corrosive degradation that Fe−, Ni− and Co-base, high-temperature alloys undergo when subjected to environments supersaturated with carbon (ac > 1). This corrosion process leads to the actual conversion of bulk metal to powder or dust. The present study focuses on the fundamental understanding of the corrosion of low chromium steels containing about 1.25–13 wt.% Cr in carbon-supersaturated environments (CO–H2) over the temperature range, 650–1100 °F (343–593 °C). With increasing Cr content the overall corrosion rate decreases and the corrosion becomes more localized. All low-chromium steels in an overall sense disintegrate by metastable surface M3C growth and its subsequent decomposition upon carbon deposition in good agreement with earlier research on the metal-dusting mechanism of pure iron. While the presence of a continuous surface layer of M3C is characteristic of general corrosion, such a layer is absent in low chromium steels having more than 5% chromium (e.g. 9Cr and 13Cr). High-resolution electron microscopy of such steels reveals, in addition to metal particles and a mixture of graphitic and amorphous carbon, stable carbide (M7C3) particles in the corrosion product. The mechanistic aspects of metal dusting are discussed with particular attention to stages of microstructure degradation process of low chromium steels.
Strain dependence of the viscoelastic properties of alginate hydrogels

Alginates, naturally derived linear copolymers of 1,4-linked β-d-mannuronic acid and α-l-guluronic acid residues, can form hydrogels in the presence of divalent cations. In this study alginate hydrogels were formed by the addition of Ca2+ ions to aqueous solutions of sodium alginate. The rheological and mechanical behaviors of the hydrogels were studied using an axisymmetric probe tack apparatus with stress relaxation and cyclic movement capabilities. The hydrogels were subjected to high compressive strains (several units) to elucidate the source of nonelastic stress relaxation. These polysaccharide hydrogels behave elastically at small strains and become viscoelastic at large strains, a result that is responsible for the excellent toughness of the gels.
Scale-based fuzzy connectivity: a novel image segmentation methodology and its validation

This paper extends a previously reported theory and algorithms for fuzzy connected object definition. It introduces `object scale' for determining the neighborhood size for defining affinity, the degree of local hanging togetherness between image elements. Object scale allows us to use a varying neighborhood size in different parts of the image. This paper argues that scale-based fuzzy connectivity is natural in object definition and demonstrates that this leads to a more effective object segmentation than without using scale in fuzzy concentrations. Affinity is described as consisting of a homogeneity-based and an object-feature- based component. Families of non scale-based and scale-based affinity relations are constructed. An effective method for giving a rough estimate of scale at different locations in the image is presented. The original theoretical and algorithmic framework remains more-or-less the same but considerably improved segmentations result. A quantitative statistical comparison between the non scale-based and the scale-based methods was made based on phantom images generated from patient MR brain studies by first segmenting the objects, and then by adding noise and blurring, and background component. Both the statistical and the subjective tests clearly indicate the superiority of scale- based method in capturing details and in robustness to noise.© (1999) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Sleep dysfunction in long term survivors of craniopharyngioma

Craniopharyngiomas are slow growing tumors of the sellar and parasellar region and may also involve the hypothalamus. Treatment involves maximal surgical excision or subtotal resection followed by focal radiation therapy. Late effects of treatment include endocrinopathies, cognitive deficits, behavioral changes, obesity and sleep dysfunction. We conducted a retrospective review of all patients with craniopharyngioma more than 2 years off treatment and who were evaluated in the neuro-oncology survivorship clinic between 2003 and 2007. Clinical data, extent of resection, treatment modalities, endocrine status, patient symptom report and sleep study results were collected to evaluate the presence of patient reported daytime sleepiness and sleep disturbance and to determine possible risk factors. 28 patients were identified (25 %) female. 19/28 self-reported daytime fatigue or sleep disturbance; this included 4/6 patients with gross total resection and 15/22 with subtotal resection. 16/22 patients treated with cranial irradiation reported sleep-related abnormalities, compared to 3/6 patients who did not receive radiation. All but one patient had pituitary dysfunction requiring hormonal replacement. Patients with more than ≥2 sleep related complaints had a higher BMI (44.6 vs. 32.6, p = 0.0192). 8 patients underwent formal sleep evaluation. 3 patients had documented central or obstructive sleep apnea. The mean arousal index was 11.0/h (normal <5). Two patients were treated with melatonin for sleep disturbance and 2 were treated with stimulants for excessive daytime sleepiness. A majority of patients with craniopharyngioma have self-reported daytime fatigue and/or sleep dysfunction after treatment. Extent of resection did not increase the likelihood of patient-reported daytime sleepiness and/sleep dysfunction; however, patients who received radiation more frequently reported daytime sleepiness and/or sleep dysfunction. Patients with a higher BMI were more likely to experience sleep disturbance. Formal sleep evaluations should be considered in all patients with craniopharyngioma.
GENDER FACTORS IN REVIEWER RECOMMENDATIONS FOR MANUSCRIPT PUBLICATION

This study investigated whether the gender of manuscript authors affected reviewers' editorial decisions. Female and male reviewers for five behavioral journals were asked to evaluate identical manuscripts according to their usual criteria. Half the manuscripts were supposedly written by men and half by women. Male reviewers did not evaluate male- and female-authored manuscripts differently. Female reviewers accepted significantly more female-authored (62%) than male-authored (10%) manuscripts. Female-authored manuscripts were accepted significantly more often by female (62%) than by male (21%) reviewers. Information unrelated to the quality of the manuscript appears to have influenced reviewers' decisions. Implications for the journal review process are discussed.
A note on arrays of dots with distinct slopes

We prove that the maximum number of dots in ann×n array of dots with distinct slopes is at leastcn 2/3(logn)−1/3 withc>0. This improves a previous result ofcn 1/2. An upper bound isO(n 4/5).
Tilings of a torus with rectangular boxes

Abstract We consider tilings of a torus T r (= R /r 1 Z × R /r 2 Z for a pair of positive integers r = ( r 1 , r 2 )) with translated copies of finitely many rectangles whose sides have integer lengths (several copies of the same rectangle can be used); if the horizontal or the vertical sides have length 1, then such a rectangle is called a rod. We give a simple criterion for the tilability of a torus T r with rods provided that T r is large with respect to the rods, i.e., r 1 and r 2 are large. The proof uses a coloring argument so it also yields a necessary condition for the existence of an integer tiling. For this generalized notion of tilability we prove a result with arbitrary rectangles as tiles, namely, we present an explicit criterion for integer tilability of a torus with finitely many rectangles. Both criteria can be formulated in every dimension.
Behavior of vital and killed autologous pericardium in the descending aorta of sheep.

Abstract Objectives: Cardiovascular implants of fresh autologous pericardium produced mixed results including fibrosis with retraction or thinning and dilatation. The reasons for these differences are unknown but may involve activation of cells intrinsic to the tissue implant. To better understand the behavior of autologous pericardial implants, we studied the outcomes of vital pericardium (fresh) versus ethanol-killed pericardium. Methods: Fresh and ethanol-killed autologous pericardium was transplanted as a patch, a conduit, or a rectangular flap bisecting the lumen in the descending aorta of sheep. The implants, recovered at 1, 5, 10, 15, and 30 days, were evaluated macroscopically and microscopically and by immunohistologic studies. Results: Fresh implants showed good preservation with fibrin deposition on day 15. Microscopically, cells positive for α-actin and von Willebrand–related antigen appeared in the fibrin by day 10. By day 30 the flap was fibrotic and retracted whereas the patch and conduit retained their original appearance on the luminal aspect. An endothelium-like layer expressing von Willebrand–related antigen was present in the patch and conduit but absent in the flap. In contrast, the ethanol-killed implants were free of fibrin by day 10. By day 30, there were no signs of fibrosis or retraction, and a surface layer of cells expressing von Willebrand–related antigen, characteristic of endothelial cells, was present on all implants. All ethanol-killed implants were repopulated by host cells. Conclusion: The transluminal flap is an interesting model for studying the behavior of intraluminal autologous pericardial cardiovascular implants. Killing of the pericardial implants alleviated the fibrosis and tissue retraction observed with fresh flap implants. (J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg 1999; 118:998-1005)
Neurodevelopment of children with single suture craniosynostosis: a review

Introduction Rates of neurocognitive risk range from 35–50% of school-aged children with isolated single suture craniosynostosis (SSC). It has been hypothesized that early surgical intervention to release suture fusion reduces risk for increased intracranial pressure (ICP) and the corresponding risk to neurodevelopment. However, studies assessing children with SSC have been inconsistent in finding an association between neurocognitive development, age of surgery, and ICP.
The Shock and Spall Response of Kovar

The shock response and spall strength of Kovar®, an alloy of Fe-29Ni-17Co, are obtained using a single stage powder gun to achieve pressures between 6 and 55 GPa by performing symmetric, planar impact tests. Above ~ 6.5 GPa, the behavior shifts from a dispersive, continuous pressure rise to a shock, and it is shown that the material displays anomalous behavior at low pressures. Above 6.5 GPa, the Hugoniot is described by a linear relationship between shock and particle velocity of US = 2.06UP + 3.54 km/s. The spall strength, an engineering description of the spall phenomenon, was calculated and shown to increase from 3.6-7.4 GPa as stress increases from 6-55 GPa, and it is shown that the method of spall strength computation has a large effect. From previous studies on the iron-nickel system, the authors expected to observe evidence of an α → E phase transition in the material but did not. Upon examining the shock and metallurgical literature, high concentrations of Ni and Co will have competing effects on the phase transition, but the effect of Ni will likely dominate and decrease the phase transition pressure. Further experiments on the high alloy Fe-Ni-Co system are needed to understand Kovar's complex low pressure mechanical behavior.
OPPORTUNISTIC INFECTIONS IN HIV DISEASE: DOWN BUT NOT OUT

The widespread use of combination antiretroviral therapy consisting of at least 3 active agents has completely transformed the management of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease. For patients taking potent combination antiretroviral therapy (ART), beginning in 1996, there has been a dramatic decline in the incidence of AIDS-related opportunistic infections (OIs) such as Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), disseminated Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), and invasive cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease. 17,29,32,41,42,44 This decline occurred independent of the use of specific OI prophylaxis. An additional remarkable effect of ART has been the resolution of certain complications for which previously no consistently effective therapy was given or available, such as progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, 58 cryptosporidiosis, 37 azole-resistant candida esophagitis, 63 and Kaposi's sarcoma. 19 These data persuasively argue that the immune system recovery that occurs with potent antiretroviral therapy is of considerable qualitative, and not just quantitative (as measured by absolute CD4 cell count), nature. HIV-related opportunistic infections, therefore, now predominantly occur in the following clinical settings: (1) in patients not receiving antiretroviral therapy, either because of having previously undiagnosed HIV infection or because of their nonacceptance with prescribed treatment; (2) in the period after starting ART, because of lack of immune reconstitution or because of eliciting a previously absent inflammatory host response; or (3) because of failure of prescribed antiretroviral therapy caused by viral resistance. Surprisingly, despite high rates of virologic failure seen in clinical practice, rates of OIs remain low in those with virologic failure. 15,33 Potential explanations for this apparent paradox include the sustained elevations in CD4 cell counts despite virologic failure, attenuation of viral fitness that occurs with resistance mutations, and the fact that most patients with rebounding viral loads still have levels of viremia that are substantially below their treatment baseline. This article will focus on OIs as they occur in the context of presenting symptoms. It will focus on a symptom-based approach, with specific treatment strategies outlined as they relate to individual HIV-related OIs outlined in the Appendix at the end of the article.
Folk culture and urban political economy: The ice houses of San Antonio

(1991). Folk culture and urban political economy: The ice houses of San Antonio. The Social Science Journal: Vol. 28, No. 4, pp. 425-450.
Predicting informant accuracy from patterns of recall among individuals

Abstract This paper examines the question of informant accuracy in reporting patterns of communication in face-to-face groups. We are attempting to establish the extent to which it is possible to predict individual differences in accuracy from the patterns of recall among informants. We use data from a series of studies by Bernard, Killworth, and Sailer ( Killworth and Bernard, 1976 , Killworth and Bernard, 1979 Bernard and Killworth 1977; Bernard et al., 1980 , Bernard et al., 1982 ) in which they collected observed behavior interaction frequencies and subsequently asked informants to recall and rate the degree of previous communication. In this paper we attempt to predict the accuracy of recall, i.e. how well each individual's ranking corresponds to the overall observed interactions for the group as a whole, by looking solely at the recall ranking. Using this method, we are able to account for a major share of the variance in accuracy among the subjects. We outline a theory and method for predicting accuracy based upon recall data that may be generalized to a variety of situations beyond social interaction data.
Viscosity Of Electrolytes

IN NATURE of Dec. 27, p. 994, there are some general statements as to the viscosity of electrolytes, which are by no means universally true. I refer to the statements that “the relative viscosity of all electrolytes must be greater than unity at high dilutions”; and that the phenomenon of ‘negative viscosity’ will disappear. In a paper on the viscosity of aqueous solutions (Trans. Chem. Soc., vol. 107, p. 1789; 1915) the example of nitric acid is given and the relative principles are discussed. It appears that the viscosities depend upon the mutual depolymerisation of the electrolyte and the solvent, and that the resultant behaviour depends on the temperature.
Professionalism and Internal Auditors: A Profile

The concept of professionalism of internal auditors is examined. A survey of a large sample of internal auditors revealed that internal auditors generally conform to a model of professionalism previously applied to other occupations. Especially notable, internal auditors strongly believe in the importance of internal auditing. The relationship between the dimensions of professionalism and levels of education, certification, and rank are also explored. Implications for professionalism in internal auditing are discussed.
Policing Identities: Cop Decision Making and the Constitution of Citizens

We examine police decision making by focusing on police stories and drawing together contemporary thought about identities and police subculture. Our inquiry suggests that police decision making is both improvisational and patterned. Cops are moral agents who tag people with identities as they project identities of their own. They do engage in raw forms of division or stereotyping, marking some as others to be feared and themselves as protectors of society, while exercising their coercive powers to punish “the bad.” Due, in part, to the many ways that they identify themselves, cops also connect with people as unique individuals, including individuals whose categorical identities (e.g., drug dealers) put them at the margins of society. Rather than using their coercive powers to repress these individuals, cops infuse them with certain virtues (e.g., good family men) while cutting them breaks. As they complicate representations of themselves, cops also project complex notions of law and legality. Moral discourse seems to infuse their judgments, while they invoke law strategically as a tool to enforce their moral judgments.
Partial purification and characterization of sperm receptor hydrolase, a cortical granule proteoesterase, from eggs of the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus purpuratus

Sperm receptor hydrolase, one of two classes of cortical granule proteoesterases (E.C.3.4.4.4) was purified approximately 30-fold with 80% yield from Strongylocentrotus purpuratus cortical granule exudate. Sperm receptor hydrolase preparations were free of vitelline delaminase activity (the other class of cortical granule proteoesterase) and had less than 1% of the starting levels of cortical granule peroxidase and β-1,3-glucanohydro-lase activities. Native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis coupled with a protease activity stain showed that three proteases were present in the most highly purified preparations of sperm receptor hydrolase. Each of the three proteases has the same molecular weight of 60,000, but different isoelectric points of 2.4, 3.8, and 5.5. The Km value of the mixture of proteases for α-N-benzoyl-L-arginine ethyl ester as substrate was 263 μM at pH 8.4 and 30°C; the pH dependence of Vm showed a single prototrophic group with a pK of 6.7 and an enthalpy of ionization of 8.6 kcal-mol−1. The values of these kinetic parameters are consistent with an enzyme-active site containing histidine. Phenylmethyl sulfonyl fluoride, tosyl lysine chloromethyl ketone, several proteinaceous trypsin inhibitors, and p-aminobenzamidine inhibited the esterase activity of the proteases. These data suggest that sperm receptor hydrolases are serine proteases.
Fc Rγ-independent Signaling by the Platelet Collagen Receptor Glycoprotein VI

The platelet collagen receptor glycoprotein VI (GPVI) is structurally homologous to multisubunit immune receptors and signals through the immune receptor adaptor Fc Rγ. Multisubunit receptors are composed of specialized subunits thought to be dedicated exclusively to ligand binding or signal transduction. However, recent studies of the intracellular region of GPVI, a ligand-binding subunit, have suggested the existence of protein-protein interactions that could regulate receptor signaling. In the present study we have investigated the signaling role of the GPVI intracellular domain by stably expressing GPVI mutants in RBL-2H3 cells, a model system that accurately reproduces the GPVI signaling events observed in platelets. Studies of mutant GPVI receptor protein-protein interaction and calcium signaling reveal the existence of discrete domains within the receptor's intracellular tail that mediate interaction with Fc Rγ, calmodulin, and Src family tyrosine kinases. These receptor interactions are modular and mediated by non-overlapping regions of the receptor transmembrane and intracellular domains. GPVI signaling requires all three of these domains as receptor mutants able to couple to only two interacting proteins exhibited severe signaling defects despite normal surface expression. Our results demonstrate that the ligand-binding subunit of the GPVI-Fc Rγ receptor participates directly in receptor signaling by interacting with downstream signaling molecules other than Fc Rγ through an adaptor-like mechanism.
Kalotermes banksiae, Glyptotermes brevicornis, and other termites (Isoptera) in New Zealand

Glyptotermes brevicornis is reported from New Zealand for the first time and the presence of Kalotermes banksiae is confirmed. A brief history of all other termite species reported from New Zealand is given and their present status is discussed.
Finding all shortest distances in a directed network

A new method is given for finding all shortest distances in a directed network. The amount of work (in performing additions, subtractions, and comparisons) is slightly more than half of that required in the best of previous methods.
Population increase of Psoroptes ovis (Acari: Psoroptidae) on stanchioned cattle during summer.

Cattle scabies, caused by Psoroptes ovis , became latent during the summer on 5 unstanchioned cattle in Kerrville, Texas, USA. There was a complete resolution of lesions, disappearance of pruritus, and apparent extinction of the mite population. However, the recovery that had begun in spring did not persist on 2 cattle after they were stanchioned and unable to groom. By early summer a large population of mites and extensive lesions had developed on these 2 stanchioned cattle, and the buildup of mites persisted during the summer months, a period heretofore considered unfavorable for mite development. This suggests that self-grooming contributes to a decline in the population of P. ovis and to the extent of mange during the summer. The development of large mite populations during the summer is evidence that P. ovis does not enter a quiescent stage for survival during this period.
Covering arrays from cyclotomy

For a prime power $${q \equiv 1 (mod{v})}$$ , the q × q cyclotomic matrix, whose entries are the discrete logarithms modulo v of the entries in the addition table of $${\mathbb{F}_q}$$ , has been shown using character theoretic arguments to produce an $${\varepsilon}$$ -biased array, provided that q is large enough as a function of v and $${\varepsilon}$$ . A suitable choice of $${\varepsilon}$$ ensures that the array is a covering array of strength t when $${q > t^2 v^{4t}}$$ . On the other hand, when v = 2, using a different character-theoretic argument the matrix has been shown to be a covering array of strength t when $${q > t^2 2^{2t-2}}$$ . The restrictions on $${\varepsilon}$$ -biased arrays are more severe than on covering arrays. This is exploited to prove that for all v ? 2, the matrix is a covering array of strength t whenever $${q > t^2 v^{2t}}$$ , again using character theory. A number of constructions of covering arrays arise by developing and extending the cyclotomic matrix. For each construction, extensive computations for various choices of t and v are reported that determine the precise set of small primes for which the construction produces a covering array. As a consequence, many covering arrays are found when q is smaller than the bound $${t^2 v^{2t}}$$ , and consequences for the existence of covering arrays reported.
Evidence for the Cell-free Transmission of chemically induced Mammary Carcinoma in the Rat

THE possibility that chemically induced cancer might be the result of the activation of a latent virus has been considered in the past. Some evidence has been reported1 which indicates transmission of chemically induced tumours by subcellular materials prepared from the latter. Data implicating a virus aetiology of this class of tumours have been inconclusive2.
First Report of a Leaf Blight, Seed Stalk Rot, and Bulb Decay of Onion by Pantoea ananas in Georgia

In May 1997, sweet onions (Allium cepa L.) grown in Toombs County, GA, displayed symptoms of blighted leaves, bleached and rotted seed stalks, and rotted bulbs. Gram-negative bacteria were isolated from infected tissues on nutrient agar and shown to be from the genus Pantoea on the basis of cell morphology (rod-shaped), yellow pigmentation, utilization of glucose in an oxidative and fermentative manner, presence of catalase, and absence of oxidase. These characteristics are typical of bacterial strains belonging to the Enterobacteriaceae (facultative anaerobes). Initially, these bacteria were thought to be P. agglomerans, a common saprophyte associated with plant material. However, fatty acid analysis, using bacterial identification software (MIDI, Dewark, DE), identified (second choice) some strains as possibly being P. ananas.. Further testing indicated that all strains utilized cellobiose, melibiose, inositol, glycerol, and sucrose, but not pectin, starch, or gelatin. However, those strains identified by fatty acid analysis as P. ananas were differentiated from P. agglomerans on the basis of indole production, lack of phenylalanine deaminase, and lack of nitrate reductase. To confirm pathogenicity, three strains of each species (total of six strains) were grown overnight in nutrient broth shake cultures. Bacterial cells were harvested by centrifugation and suspended in 0.01 M phosphate-buffered saline (0.85%). Inoculum was adjusted to approximately 5 × 108 CFU/ml with a spectrophotometer and misted with a chromatography sprayer onto onion leaves of approximately 10-week-old onion plants in the greenhouse. Onions were predisposed by placing them under plastic bags for 18 h prior to inoculation. Inoculated plants were left covered with plastic bags for an additional 24 h after inoculation. There were two plants per pot, each test had three pots, and the test was conducted twice. The three strains of P. agglomerans and buffer control resulted in no symptoms. The three strains of P. ananas produced severe blighting, rapid collapse of tissues, and rapid drying so that leaves were light tan and dry within 3 days. Disease on plants infected with P. ananas continued to develop until death of all foliage and bulbs shriveled and collapsed. Results were consistent for all replications and both trials. Bacteria recovered from diseased tissues were gram-negative, yellow, and facultative anaerobic, and produced indole but not phenylalanine deaminase or nitrate reductase; i.e., the bacteria demonstrated the same characteristics as P. ananas. Although P. agglomerans has been reported to produce similar symptoms in South Africa (1), our P. agglomerans strains were nonpathogenic. To our knowledge this is the first report of P. ananas causing a disease of onion. Reference: (1) M. J. Hattingh and D. F. Walters Plant Dis. 65:615, 1981.
Which Patients with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) Should Receive Elemental Diets Versus Other Therapies

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) has increasingly been identified in both children and adults. The aim of therapies is to alleviate symptoms while reducing the esophageal inflammation. Mechanical dilation is effective at relieving symptoms, but without the benefit of controlling disease inflammation. Topical steroids appear to be effective at controlling both symptoms and esophageal eosinophilia. Recurrence rates are high once steroids are discontinued. For dietary modification, both the elimination of select, specific foods and the complete elimination of food proteins via amino acid formulas have been looked at. Both forms of dietary modification are effective. Elemental diet, although not an ideal first-line therapy for EoE, provides insight into the etiology of unusual or refractory EoE. The contribution of unusual food antigens to EoE may be determined via the use of amino-acid-based formulas in patients with EoE.
Comparison of clinical findings in pediatric patients with albinism and different amplitudes of nystagmus.

Introduction: Visual acuity in albinism can vary and is difficult to predict. We undertook this study to investigate whether patients with albinism with absent or minimal nystagmus have better visual acuity and ocular alignment than patients with albinism and obvious nystagmus. Methods: Our retrospective chart review of 38 pediatric patients with albinism yielded 16 patients with absent or minimal nystagmus and 22 patients with obvious nystagmus. Results: Patients with albinism and absent or minimal nystagmus had best-corrected visual acuities ranging from 20/20 to 20/50, with a mean visual acuity of 20/33. Those patients with albinism and obvious nystagmus had best-corrected visual acuities ranging from 20/30 to 20/200, with a mean visual acuity of 20/80. Visual acuity was significantly better in the group with absent or minimal nystagmus ( P Conclusion: Our findings suggest that pediatric albinism patients with absent or minimal nystagmus can be expected to demonstrate better visual acuity and are less likely to show a strabismic deviation of greater than 12 PD compared with those with obvious nystagmus ( P = 0.0003).
Developmental changes in galactosyltransferase activity in the rat small intestine.

Abstract During postnatal development, UDP-Gal:GlcNac(β1–4)-galactosyltransferase (4β-GT) and UDP-Gal:GalNAc(β1–3)-galactosyltransferase (3β-GT) activities were increased by 17- and 24-fold, respectively, in the rat small intestine. The injection of cortisone into suckling rats resulted in precocious induction of distal 4β- and 3β-GT activities by 2.7- and 18-fold, respectively. Injection of phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) resulted in precocious induction of distal 3β-GT by 2.7-fold. These results suggest that intestinal galactosyltransferase activities are under developmental regulation and can be modified by cortisone and PMA.
Two Morphological Types of Placentæ in the Raccoon

THE literature on the placenta of the raccoon (Procyon lotor L.) is extremely sparse and, to the best of our knowledge, placentation in this carnivore is mentioned only by Watson1, Rau2, Mossman3 and Amoroso4. The three last-named authors have all quoted aspects of the original contribution by Watson, and it seems, therefore, that knowledge of the raccoon placenta has been based on Watson's early observations. The material at his disposal was, unfortunately, limited to one gravid uterus which contained but one conceptus and, as Watson states, the material was not in the best condition. Observations, in this laboratory, on four gravid uteri involving 17 conceptuses have revealed certain understandable misinterpretations and omissions in Watson's paper. Furthermore, the discovery by one of us (R. F. S. C.) of a hitherto unreported but prominent placental organ associated with the more commonly mentioned zonary placenta in the raccoon re-focuses attention on the so-called haematomata of the carnivore placenta.
Interaction between the Ah receptor and proteins binding to the AP-1-like electrophile response element (EpRE) during murine phase II [Ah] battery gene expression

We have studied three Phase II genes in the mouse dioxin-inducible [Ah] battery: Nmol [encoding NAD(P)H:menadione oxidoreductase], Ahd4 (encoding the cytosolic aldehyde dehydrogenase ALDH3c), and Ugtl∗06 (a UDP glucuronosyltransferase). Oxidant-induced Nmol gene expression in the 14CoS14Cos mouse appears likely to be caused by homozygous loss of the fumarylacetoacetate hydrolase (Fah) gene on Chr 7 and absence of the enzyme (FAH), which leads to increased levels of endogenous tyrosine oxidative metabolites. We show here that increases in [Ah] Phase II gene expression in the 14CoS14CoS mouse are correlated with an AP-1-like DNA motif called the electrophile response element (EpRE), which has been found in the 5′ flanking regulatory regions of all murine [Ah] Phase II genes. Aromatic hydrocarbon response element (AhREs) are responsible for dioxin-mediated upregulation of all six [Ah] battery genes, and one or more AhREs have been found in the 5′ flanking regulatory regions of all of these [Ah] genes. Gel mobility shift assays, with a synthetic oligonucleotide probe corresponding to the EpRE, show that EpRE-binding proteins are more than twice as abundant in 14CoS14CoS than in the wild-type chch nuclear extracts. Competition studies of EpRE-specific binding with an excess of EpRE, mutated EpRE, AP-1, AhRE3, mutated AhRE3, and C/EBPα oligonucleotides suggest that several common transcriptional factors bind to the EpRE and AhRE3 motifs. Two monospecific antibodies to the Ah receptor (AHR) protein block formation of an EpRE-specific complex on gel mobility electrophoresis. These data suggest that AHR (or AHR-related protein) might be an integral part of the EpRE-binding transcriptional complex associated with the oxidative stress response. To our knowledge, this is among the first reports of the same transcription factor operating at two different response elements upstream of a single gene.
Fluorimetric determination of selenium(IV) and total selenium in natural waters

Abstract A fluorimetric method for the determination of selenium(IV) in natural waters is described. Selenium(IV) is preconcentrated by extracting its complex with ammonium 1-pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate into chloroform, and back-extracting the selenium into nitric acid. The preconcentrated selenium is complexed with 2,3-diaminonaphthalene to form 4,5-benzopiazselenol, which is determined fluorimetrically. The optimal conditions for the fluorimetric determination of dissolved total selenium in natural waters were re-examined. The required volume of sample can be reduced from 5 l to 1 l. The detection limit is about 20 pM for a 1-l sample. The imprecision is about 2% between 275 and 600 pM and 8% at 131 pM.
Ultra-low-loss Waveguide Crossing Arrays Based on Imaginary Coupling of Multimode Bloch Waves

We experimentally demonstrate ultra-low-loss waveguide crossing arrays showing loss down to 0.04dB/crossing. They rely on a low loss, focusing Bloch wave that is stabilized by radiative scattering, via a radiative form of coupling.
The Electric Power Research Institute

The Electric Power Research Institute, now 10 years old, was formed by the electric utility industry in response to the threat of federal legislation to create a government agency, funded by a 1 percent tax on utility gross revenue, to undertake research and development. Legislation was proposed in the early 19709s by the Senate Commerce Committee as a result of the massive 1965 Northeast blackout and subsequent public criticism. In March 1972, the Senate was persuaded to give the electric utility industry 1 year to establish an industry-managed and supported substitute to the proposal. This article describes the subsequent history and the program today.
Knudsen diffusion and surface trapping rates in slit, capillary, and spherical pores

De Gennes model for Knudsen diffusion and strong surface trapping kinetics is applied to slit, capillary, and spherical pores. The exact analytical survival probability-time expressions obtained for each case, which scale with the average pore diameter, are compared with numerical simulation curves for a densely packed hard sphere model porous bed.
Iatrogenic events resulting in intensive care admission: Frequency, cause, and disclosure to patients and institutions

Abstract Purpose To identify the frequency and type of iatrogenic medical events requiring admission to an intensive care unit. To assess the consequences of iatrogenic medical events for patients and institutions. To assess the prevalence of disclosure of iatrogenic medical events to patients, surrogates, and institutions. Methods The project on Care Improvement for the Critically Ill enrolled 5727 patients to 8 intensive care units at 4 Boston teaching hospitals. To determine the nature, consequences, and disclosure of iatrogenic medical events, we did a retrospective chart review on all patients whose admission to an intensive care unit was precipitated by an iatrogenic event. Results Sixty-six patients (1.2 %) were identified by an intensive care unit's clinical team as having an iatrogenic medical event as the primary reason for admission to the unit. The majority (29, or 45%) of iatrogenic medical events were secondary to technical error, but a high percentage (21, or 33%) was due to iatrogenic drug events. Twenty-two (34%) cases were assessed by the investigators to have been preventable. In 60 (94%) cases there was no documentation in the patient's chart of communication to the patient regarding the reason for admission to the intensive care unit. In 11 (17%) cases there was documentation of a discussion with the surrogate about the reason for admission to the unit. In only 3 (5%) cases was there documentation that the patient or surrogate was informed that an iatrogenic medical event was the reason for admission to the intensive care unit. Incident reports or malpractice claims were filed in only 4 (6 %) cases. Conclusion The frequency of iatrogenic medical events resulting in admission to intensive care units is lower than previous studies have reported. Iatrogenic drug events continue to be an important source of error. A considerable percentage of iatrogenic events may be preventable. Health care professionals rarely document disclosure of iatrogenic events to patients and surrogates.
GESTATIONL AGE AND CORD SERUM BILIRUBIN BINDING

The effect of gestational age on bilirubin binding by albumin was studied using cord serum obtained from 22 preterm infants, 13 term infants and samples obtained from 17 adults. Using the horseradish peroxidase method, the apparent unbound bilirubin concentration (AUBC) was measured with increasing amounts of total bilirubin (TB). Serum albumin was also determined. The resultant bilirubin titration curve was analyzed using the least squares fit of the empiric equation Y = aXb and calculation of the association constants (Ka) using Scatchard plots.
An evaluation of aminopeptidase specificity with seven chromogenic substrates.

Abstract Seven chromogenic substrates were used to establish the identity of the classical leucine aminopeptidase. These substrates were the leucyl, glycyl, alanyl, phenylalanyl, methionyl, glutamyl, and arginyl amides of 2-naphthylamine. The cleavage of these substrates was studied by the enzyme (or enzymes) in four organs of the rat, and in the livers of five species. The rate constants, pH optima, influence of temperature, aging and fixation effects, and activities with substrate combinations were determined. Substrate hydrolysis by a purified preparation of leucine aminopeptidase was measured also. The currently available information would seem to favor the nonspecificity of aminopeptidase, with the likelihood that more than one aminopeptidase exists. Even though certain peptides may be preferentially hydrolyzed, there is so much overlap that the characterization of the specific aminopeptidase by its amino acid preference serves no more useful function than to label the substrate used. Therefore it is unrealistic to characterize the enzyme by the amino acid used, if a more specific implication is intended.
Performance of the 1 MW, 110 GHz, 10 s gyrotrons recently installed in the DIII–D ECH system

ECH power has proven capabilities for both heating and current drive in energetic plasmas. For the second phase of ECH power on DIII–D, there will be three 1 MW sources added to the existing three systems for a total power generating capacity of 5.1 MW. This upgrade is based on the use of the single disc chemical vapor deposition (CVD) diamond window, 1 MW diode gyrotron, recently developed by CPI. All gyrotrons are connected to the tokamak via a low-loss, windowless, evacuated transmission line system, using circular corrugated waveguide for propagation in the HE11 mode. Each waveguide system incorporates an in-vessel two-mirror launcher. The newest launcher can steer the rf beam poloidally from the center to the outer edge of the plasma and toroidally for either co- or counter-current drive. An overview of the total system, its integration with the DIII–D tokamak, and recent results will be discussed. The various new aspects of the upgrade ranging from building modifications to the use of the new steerable launcher will also be addressed.