cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Pseudo-differential zero-crossing-based circuit with differential error suppression

This paper presents a pseudo-differential zero-crossing-based circuit topology that achieves differential error suppression. The nature of the charging errors in different zero-crossing-based circuit topologies is explored and the benefits of the proposed topology are discussed. Simulation results provided confirm the differential error suppression in the proposed scheme.
Improving Success in the Mainstream Setting for Pupils with Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties

Pupils’ perspectives are clearly a very significant element in seeking to understand and evaluate the educational process. In spite of this, research into ‘the way pupils see it’ has been limited. This paper focuses on a group whose views have so far suffered particular neglect. The writer sought the views of pupils with emotional and behavioural difficulties attending special schools. These pupils were asked what factors had influenced the way they had behaved in mainstream school. Their views on many aspects of their experience have implications which go beyond the education of this specific group. The paper concludes with a number of proposals for changes in mainstream education which might reduce the number of pupils currently educated outside the mainstream.
Understanding how employees understand customers: A commentary essay

Abstract Young, Meterko, Mohr, Schwartz, and Lin empirically examine how service employees interpret behavioral cues and assess customers' satisfaction in the context of a large healthcare system. This commentary explores the authors' contribution to the multidisciplinary service quality literature. The commentary also considers how Young et al.'s findings align with important, emerging work in the healthcare domain.
Sensing and characterization of EMI during intermittent connector anomalies

This paper presents a new on-line methodology for detecting intermittent disconnection failures. The detection principle operates on the fundamental Lorentz Law that states that sudden changes in flux create a large voltage, resulting in an arc. This arc propagates as a traveling wave through the circuit until all the energy associated with it is dissipated. It is possible to detect that traveling wave as an indication of an intermittent disconnection failure. A test bench was implemented to test and validate the theory. Preliminary results presented in this paper show the feasibility of detecting disconnection failures and the possibility of locating the failing connector based on distance.
Selective coupling of methotrexate to peptide hormone carriers through a gamma-carboxamide linkage of its glutamic acid moiety: benzotriazol-1-yloxytris(dimethylamino)phosphonium hexafluorophosphate activation in salt coupling.

Abstract A convenient synthetic method is described for the preparation of peptide-methotrexate (MTX) conjugates in which MTX is coupled selectively through the gamma-carboxyl group of its glutamic acid moiety to a free amino group in peptide analogs. The syntheses of a somatostatin analog-MTX conjugate (MTX-D-Phe-Cys-Tyr-D-Trp-Lys-Val-Cys-Thr-NH2) (AN-51) and two conjugates of analogs of luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LH-RH) with MTX [Glp-His-Trp-Ser-Tyr-D-Lys(MTX)-Leu-Arg-Pro-Gly-NH2] (AJ-04) and [Ac-Ser-Tyr-D-Lys(MTX)-Leu-Arg-Pro-NH-Et] AJ-51 are presented as examples. Benzotriazol-1-yloxytris(dimethylamino)phosphonium hexafluorophosphate (BOP reagent) was used in the synthesis for activation of 4-amino-4-deoxy-N10-methylpteroic acid, which reacted with the potassium salt of glutamic acid alpha-tert-butyl ester in dimethyl sulfoxide to form the suitably protected MTX derivative. This synthesis provides an example of the high suitability of BOP reagent for the salt-coupling method. The selectively protected MTX derivative was then coupled to the different peptide carriers and deprotected under relatively mild conditions by trifluoroacetic acid. The conjugates of MTX with hormonal analogs are suitable for targeting to various tumors that possess receptors for the peptide moieties.
Posterior laparostomy through the bed of the 12th rib to drain retroperitoneal infection after endoscopic sphincterotomy.

Background: Duodenal perforation occurs in 0·4–1 per cent of endoscopic procedures. The best therapeutic approach for periampullary injury is controversial; initially the treatment is generally conservative, but sometimes large retroperitoneal infections develop that require surgery. Methods: Six patients with an extensive retroperitoneal collection and unstable sepsis as a consequence of periampullary duodenal perforation sustained during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography were treated by right posterior laparostomy through the bed of the 12th rib. Results: The sepsis was managed effectively by an open posterior approach, resulting in spontaneous closure of the duodenal leak after a mean(s.d.) of 14·5(5·2) days. No hospital death or major complication was recorded. Late incisional hernia developed in one patient. Conclusion: The technique of posterior laparostomy through the bed of the 12th rib provided adequate debridement and drainage of upper and lower parts of the retroperitoneal space involved by infection following periampullary duodenal perforation. Good control of retroperitoneal sepsis and duodenal secretions resulted in spontaneous closure of the duodenal leak, avoiding the need for more complex intra-abdominal procedures. Copyright © 2004 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Consumers of Customized Sewing Services

The purpose of this research was to (a) identify incidence of use of customized sewing services, (b) develop profiles of users and non-users of sewing services, and (c) compare groups of users of s...
Decreased postoperative endophthalmitis rate after institution of intracameral antibiotics in a Northern California eye department.

Purpose To evaluate post-cataract-surgery endophthalmitis rates in relation to changing practice patterns in antibiotic administration. Setting Kaiser Permanente, Diablo Service Area, California. Design Ecological time-trend study. Methods During 2007 through 2011, 3 time periods were identified based on increasing adoption of intracameral injections after phacoemulsification cataract surgery. In 2007, patients primarily received postoperative antibiotic drops without intracameral injection. During 2008 and 2009, in addition to the surgeons’ usual postoperative topical drop regimen, patients received intracameral cefuroxime unless contraindicated by allergy or posterior capsule rupture (PCR). During 2010 and 2011, all patients received an intracameral injection of cefuroxime, moxifloxacin, or vancomycin while topical antibiotics were used according to surgeon preference. The rates of postoperative endophthalmitis during these 3 periods were calculated. Also evaluated separately were consecutive patients without PCR from a subgroup of 3 surgeons who used intracameral injection alone without perioperative topical antibiotics. Results Nineteen cases of endophthalmitis occurred in 16 264 cataract surgeries. The respective rates per 1000 during the 3 time periods (2007, 2008 and 2009, 2010 and 2011) were as follows: 3.13 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.43-5.93); 1.43 (95% CI, 0.66-2.72); 0.14 (95% CI, 0-0.78). One case of endophthalmitis was observed in 2038 patients without PCR who received intracameral injection only without topical antibiotics (rate per 1000: 0.49; 95% CI, 0.01-2.73). Conclusions The adoption of intracameral antibiotic injection coincided with a decline in the rate of postoperative endophthalmitis, and a low infection rate was observed with intracameral injection alone. Financial Disclosure No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
A combined energy and IAQ assessment of the potential value of commissioning residential mechanical ventilation systems

Abstract Limited data suggest that whole-house ventilation systems in California don't always perform as code and forecasts predict. Deficiencies occur because systems are usually field assembled without design specifications, and there is no consistent process to identify and correct problems. The value of such activities in terms of reducing energy use and improving indoor air quality (IAQ) is poorly understood. Commissioning such systems, either when they are installed or during subsequent building retrofits, is a step towards eliminating deficiencies and optimizing the trade-off between energy use and IAQ. The goal of this study was to determine the potential value of commissioning residential whole-house ventilation systems that are intended to comply with California's Title 24 residential ventilation requirements. A computer modeling approach was used to assess the impact on occupant health and building energy use of malfunctioning whole-house ventilation systems. Energy and IAQ impacts were quantified and then compared by using the Time Dependent Valuation (TDV) approach for energy and a Disability Adjusted Life Year (DALY) approach for IAQ. Results showed that health benefits dominated energy benefits independently of house size and climate. The metric for commissioning whole-house ventilation systems should be net present value of the combined energy and IAQ benefits to the consumer. Commissioning cost decisions should be made relative to that value even if that means ventilating to exceed the ASHRAE 62.2 minimum. As a consequence of combining IAQ and energy costs, the beginning of an approach to optimize the ventilation rates of homes was established.
Phonon-polariton modes in superlattices: The effect of spatial dispersion

The equation of motion for phonons in superlattices including the retardation effect is derived. It is shown that in superlattices additional polariton modes exist due to the spatial dispersion of the optical modes of the constituent bulk materials. The reflectivity spectra of superlattices are also examined.
The utility of positions for studies of metals and alloys

Abstract Four distinct processes have been described in which positron measurements can provide clear non-destructive indicators of changes in the state of a material. Many other examples may be found in the literature, however, the above should give the reader an indication of the utility of positions for studies of metals and alloys.
Participation of the intestinal epithelium and mast cells in local mucosal immune responses in commercial poultry

The intestinal mucosa of commercial poultry is continually subjected to invasion or colonization by a wide array of potentially hostile enteric pathogens. Although, recent investigations have focused on lymphocyte involvement in immune responses in the intestine, lymphocyte-mediated immunity alone will not explain the barrier nature of mucosal membranes associated with rejection of many enteric pathogens upon secondary homologous challenge. Our laboratories have focused on nontraditional elements of mucosal immunity in poultry to better understand host-pathogen interactions in the intestine. Following classical and novel immunization procedures, we have identified an antigen-specific mechanism of immediate responsiveness of the mucosal epithelium characterized by epithelial chloride secretion. This mechanism, characteristic of intestinal anaphylaxis, is mediated by local immune elements. Similar mechanisms in mammals contribute to the barrier nature of mucosal membranes during pathogen challenge. To identify cells participating in these and similar responses, additional studies have described a role for mast cells in acute phase responses in the intestines of chickens experimentally challenged with Eimeria. To a more practical end, other experiments in our laboratories have characterized drinking water administration of BSA for elicitation of local and systemic antibody responses. These experiments have shown ad libitum drinking water administration of BSA to be as effective as i.p. administration of BSA; they present a novel approach to immunization of commercial poultry with protein vaccines. These investigations support continued research on host-pathogen interactions within the intestine of commercial poultry to better understand and control enteric pathogens through vaccination or immunomodulation.
Observations on the crack-enhanced creep-fracture of a polycrystalline alumina with a glassy grain-boundary phase

An experimental study was conducted of the role of cracks in the creep-rupture behaviour of a polycrystalline alumina with glassy grain-boundary phase at stress regimes and temperatures at which failure is anticipated to occur from pre-existing flaws. Samples were tested without and with artificial flaws in the form of slots or indentation cracks. All three sample types exhibited non-linear creep. The relative rate of increase in creep rate with increasing dimension of slot-depth greatly exceeded the corresponding increase in specimen compliance, as expected for non-linear creep. An analysis of the data indicated that the observed creep behaviour was primarily controlled by crack-enhanced creep with a minor contribution from elastic creep by crack growth. Very poor correlations were found for the stress dependence of the creep rate and time-to-failure. In terms of Monkman-Grant behaviour, good correlations existed between creep rate and time-to-failure, independent of stress and size of the slots or indentation cracks. Because failure originated from pre-existing flaws, the experimental findings of this study suggest the existence of a failure mechanism referred to by the present authors as “crack-enhanced creep fracture”.
Developments in Multiprocessor Scheduling

: Effecient use of multiprocessor computers requires some consideration for formal processor shcheguling. The evolution of formal sheduling, as if relates to multiprocessor computing, is reviewd. The focus is placed on techniques which which are appropriate for numerically intensive computions, such as structural mechanics applications. Both static and dynamic scheduling tech techniques are reviewed and compared. As machine-indepennde development environments mature, it is likely that the additional computational efficiencies available with formal scheduling will be exploited.
Autonomic management of replication in voting-based fault-tolerant data collection systems

We outline the methods for autonomic management of device replication in a voting-based data collection system to deal with situations where the available network bandwidth may fluctuate and/or the device fault parameters may change unpredictably. We model the voting system as a `black-box' with prescriptive I/O behaviors, wherein a management module exercises a macroscopic control of the voting box with situational inputs: such as application priorities, system resource constraints, and external threat levels.
A unified compiler algorithm for optimizing locality, parallelism and communication in out-of-core computations

This paper presents compiler algorithms to optimize outof-core programs. These algorithms consider loop and data layout transformations in a tied framework. The performance of an out-of-core loop nest containing many references can be improved by a combination of restructuring the loops and file layouts. This approach considers array references one-by-one and attempts to optimize each reference for parallelism and locality. When there are references for which parallelism optimizations do not work, communication is vectorized so that data transfer can be performed before the innermost tiling loop. Preliminary re.suIts from handcompiles on IBM SP-2 and Intel Paragon show that this approach reduces the execution time, improves the bandwidth speedup and overall speedup. In addition, we extend the base algorithm to work with file layout constraints and show how it can be used for optimizing programs consisting of multiple loop nests.
High Day- or Nighttime Temperature Alters Leaf Assimilation, Reproductive Success, and Phosphatidic Acid of Pollen Grain in Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.)

Soybean ( max (L.) Merr.) is often exposed to high daytime and nighttime temper - atures during critical growth stages. Threshold mean daily temperature for photosynthesis, res - piration, and reproductive process in soybean is ³26°C. In future, the magnitude of increase in nighttime temperatures will be greater than in daytime temperatures. The objectives were to determine effects of high daytime or nighttime temperatures on (i) leaf photosynthetic and res piration rates; (ii) pollen germination, pod-set, and seed weight; and (iii) pollen phospholipids profile. Soybean plants were exposed to high daytime temperature (39/20°C), high nighttime temperatures (30/23°C, 30/26°C, and 30/29°C), or optimum temperature (30/20°C) for 10 d at flowering stage. High daytime temperature (39/20°C) or nighttime temperatures (30/29°C) increased leaf respiration rates and decreased leaf chlorophyll content, photosynthetic rate, photochemical quenching, and electron trans - port rate compared to optimum temperature. Likewise, high temperature decreased pollen viability and germination. Lower pollen ger - mination at high temperature may be due to decreased levels of saturated phospholipids and phosphatidic acid in pollen grains com - pared with optimum temperature. p od-set and seed weight were decreased by high daytime or nighttime temperature. In conclusion, high day - time (39/20°C) or nighttime (30/29°C) tempera - ture decreased leaf photosynthetic rate and pol -
The effects of PCO2 and temperature on magnesium incorporation in calcite in seawater and MgCl2-CaCl2 solutions

PCO2 is a significant influence on the incorporation of MgCO3 in calcite precipitated from seawater and from MgCl2-CaCl2 (aMg2+aCa2+ = 5.7) solutions at temperatures from 5 to 45 °C. In seawater at 25°C, the thermodynamic distribution coefficient, DMg, increased from 0.013 at 10−1 atm to 0.024 at 10−4.5 atm, Pco2 · DMg showed a similar dependence on PCO2 at other temperatures, but trends are offset by temperature effects on DMg. In normal seawater, variations in temperature from 5 to 45 °C, coupled with changes in pco2 from 10−1 to 10−4.5 atm, produce Mg calcite compositions ranging from 6 to 18 mol% MgCO3 · DMg depends linearly on log Pco2, log mHCO3−, and pH at any given temperature. There is no linear dependence of DMg on log mCO32−, growth rate, or calcite saturation state. Overgrowths precipitated from MgCl2-CaCl2 solutions at equilibrium with different PCO2 values showed compositional trends similar to those for seawater except that calcites were always enriched by about 2 mol% MgCO3 relative to compositions in seawater under the same PCO2 and temperature conditions. DMg values also are linearly dependent on pH and log aHCO3− these solutions. The compositional trends in the MgCl2-CaCl2 solutions correlate well with compositions of Mg-calcites precipitated by Mucci et al. (1989) from sulfate-free seawater at 25°C and 10−2.5 atm PCO2. Modern marine Mg calcite cement compositions probably are influenced by local variations in porewater PCO2 and sulfate concentration, as well as by changes in temperature. Global changes in atmospheric PCO2 during the Phanerozoic may influence trends in compositions of ancient shallow marine Mg calcite.
Laboratory Toxicity of Pesticides to Geocoris pallens (Hemiptera: Lygaeidae), a Predator in California Cotton

The acute toxicity of 22 pesticides used on cotton was determined on adult Geocoris pallens Stal. Pesticide residues were tested on cotton leaf, paper, and glass surfaces to establish a procedure for evaluating toxicity. Highest mortality was caused by residues on glass; lowest mortality was caused by residues on paper. Tests of residues on leaves are recommended as standard tests to determine pesticide toxicity to G. pallens because leaf residues gave LD50 values that were between the mortality values obtained for the low and highest recommended field rates. The technique was used to identify pesticides with low predator toxicity. Methomyl, methidathion, and carbaryl were less harmful than most chemicals tested; propargite and dicofol were least toxic. Fenvalerate was more toxic than acephate, and acephate was more toxic than methomyl when predators were exposed to these residues on Empoasca sp. The herbicides glyphosate and DSMA and the defoliants DEF and mer ph os had low acute toxicity. High mortalities caused by the herbicides dalapon and MSMA and the defoliant paraquat dichloride suggested that, to spare seasonal and overwintering predator populations, other chemicals should be used. The fungicides sulfur and benomyl were almost nontoxic at recommended dose rates, but the soil fumigant metham sodium caused moderate mortality. Pesticides least toxic to G. pallens are recommended for use in cotton pest management.
Detailed and Reduced-Chemistry Descriptions for Ignition and Detonation of Propane

The chemistry of autoignition of propane is studied with the objective of developing reduced chemistry descriptions. A detailed mechanism of 165 reaction steps among 38 chemical species is identified. This mechanism is reduced to a short mechanism of 34 steps, by deleting steps that are unnecessary. In the short mechanism, steady-state species are identified for deriving a systematically reduced mechanism. Good agreement with measured shock-tube ignition times is found.Copyright © 2003 by ASME
Cellular bioenergetics is regulated by PARP1 under resting conditions and during oxidative stress

Purpose The goal of the current studies was to elucidate the role of the principal poly(ADP-ribose)polymerase isoform, PARP1 in the regulation of cellular energetics in endothelial cells under resting conditions and during oxidative stress.
Comparative phytotoxicity of ZnO NPs, bulk ZnO, and ionic zinc onto the alfalfa plants symbiotically associated with Sinorhizobium meliloti in soil.

Abstract ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) are reported as potentially phytotoxic in hydroponic and soil media. However, studies on ZnO NPs toxicity in a plant inoculated with bacterium in soil are limited. In this study, ZnO NPs, bulk ZnO, and ZnCl2 were exposed to the symbiotic alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)–Sinorhizobium meliloti association at concentrations ranging from 0 to 750 mg/kg soil. Plant growth, Zn bioaccumulation, dry biomass, leaf area, total protein, and catalase (CAT) activity were measured in 30 day-old plants. Results showed 50% germination reduction by bulk ZnO at 500 and 750 mg/kg and all ZnCl2 concentrations. ZnO NPs and ionic Zn reduced root and shoot biomass by 80% and 25%, respectively. Conversely, bulk ZnO at 750 mg/kg increased shoot and root biomass by 225% and 10%, respectively, compared to control. At 500 and 750 mg/kg, ZnCl2 reduced CAT activity in stems and leaves. Total leaf protein significantly decreased as external ZnCl2 concentration increased. STEM-EDX imaging revealed the presence of ZnO particles in the root, stem, leaf, and nodule tissues. ZnO NPs showed less toxicity compared to ZnCl2 and bulk ZnO found to be growth enhancing on measured traits. These findings are significant to reveal the toxicity effects of different Zn species (NPs, bulk, and ionic Zn) into environmentally important plant-bacterial system in soil.
The characterization of serum lipoproteins from portacaval shunted Macaca fasicularis monkeys.

The serum lipoproteins of Macaca fasicularis monkeys subjected to portacaval shunts were compared to those of sham-operated on both chow and cholesterol-fat diets. On either diet, only the HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels were found to be significantly different between sham-operated and shunted monkeys. The HDL cholesterol of the shunted were a third lower on the chow diet (P < .025) and 50% lower on the cholesterol diet (P < .005) by both direct isolation of the VLDL, LDL, and HDL lipoprotein components and by heparin-manganese precipitation measurements of the HDL remaining in the supernatant of serum previously assayed for total cholesterol. This decrease in HDL occurred in only the HDL2 fraction (d < 1.125 g/ml), the HDL3 remaining constant. The proportion of faster floating LDL (low-density lipoproteins) was increased for cholesterol-fed shunted monkeys over the sham-operated at all levels of LDL cholesterol (comparing only groups equivalent in LDL cholesterol).
Distinct Adenosine 3′,5′-Monophosphate and Phorbol Ester-Responsive Signal Transduction Pathways Converge at the Level of Transcriptional Activation by the Interactions of DNA-Binding Proteins

Evidence is presented that distinct cellular signal transduction pathways involving cAMP-dependent protein kinase-A and phorbol ester-stimulated protein kinase-C coordinately modulate gene transcription through common as well as distinct cis-acting elements and DNA-binding proteins. When transfected and expressed in HeLa and placental JEG-3 cells, fusion reporter plasmids that differ only by a single base deletion or addition to interconvert the octameric cAMP-responsive element TGACGTCA (CRE) to form the heptameric phorbol ester-responsive element TGACTCA (TRE) are differentially regulated by cAMP and phorbol esters [12-O-tetradecanoyl phorbol-14-acetate (TPA)]. Transcription directed by the CRE is stimulated by cAMP and not TPA, although the basal expression mediated by this element in JEG-3 and HeLa cells is augmented by endogenous protein kinase-C activity. In contrast, TRE mediates transcriptional responses to both cAMP and TPA, and the two agents together give synergistic responses. Inhibition of cAMP-dependent protein kinase-A by expression of a minigene encoding a peptide inhibitor of A-kinase abolishes the response of TRE to cAMP alone as well as the cAMP-induced component of the synergistic response to treatment with both TPA and cAMP. Desensitization of the protein kinase-C dependent pathway by prolonged exposure of cells to phorbol esters eliminates the TPA-induced transcription by TRE and inhibits the TPA-induced component of the synergistic response to both cAMP and TPA. Therefore, both protein kinases, A and C, are involved in transcriptional activation by the TRE; the function of either kinase alone results in a moderate level of activity, but the combined results of both functionally stimulated kinases are synergistically positive. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays using whole extracts of JEG-3 cells indicate that a common factor(s) binds both TRE and CRE; however, another factor(s) that binds to the CRE will not bind to the TRE. Further, a latent regulatory enhancer element (URE) located upstream of the CRE's in the human alpha gonadotropin gene, although inactive when paired alone with the alpha 100 promoter, induces basal and stimulated transcriptional activity of both CRE and TRE on the average of 10- to 20-fold. The data support the existence of a gene regulatory network consisting of related cis-acting elements and DNA-binding proteins whose transcriptional activities are regulated by the convergent actions of protein kinases-C and -A.
Metformin Therapy and Outcomes in Patients With Advanced Systolic Heart Failure and Diabetes

Abstract Background Although 25% to 44% of patients with heart failure (HF) have diabetes mellitus (DM), the optimal treatment regimen for HF patients with DM is uncertain. We investigated the association between metformin therapy and outcomes in a cohort of advanced, systolic HF patients with DM. Methods and Results Patients with DM and advanced, systolic HF (n = 401) were followed at a single university HF center between 1994 and 2008. The cohort was divided into 2 groups based on the presence or absence of metformin therapy. The cohort had a mean age of 56 ± 11 years, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 24 ± 7%, with 42% being New York Heart Association (NYHA) III and 45% NYHA IV. Twenty-five percent (n = 99) were treated with metformin therapy. The groups treated and not treated with metformin were similar in terms of age, sex, baseline LVEF, medical history, and baseline glycosylated hemoglobin. Metformin-treated patients had a higher body mass index, lower creatinine, and were less often on insulin. One-year survival in metformin-treated and non-metformin-treated patients was 91% and 76%, respectively (RR = 0.37, CI 0.18-0.76, P = .007). After multivariate adjustment for demographics, cardiac function, renal function, and HF medications, metformin therapy was associated with a nonsignificant trend for improved survival. Conclusion In patients with DM and advanced, systolic HF who are closely monitored, metformin therapy appears to be safe. Prospective studies are needed to determine whether metformin can improve HF outcome.
Enthalpy Changes Accompanying the Collapse of Montmorillonite Layers and the Penetration of Electrolyte into Interlayer Space

Abstract The enthalpy changes, Δ H , in suspensions of Li–, Na–, and K–montmorillonite were determined as functions of the molal concentrations of LiCl, NaCl, and KCl, respectively, by microcalorimetry. These changes were compared with the corresponding changes in interlayer distance, λ, as determined by X-ray diffraction. It was found that Δ H values accompanying the collapse of the montmorillonite layers from λ > 14 nm to λ ≅ 1.0 nm (or 0.6 nm for K–montmorillonite) were essentially negligible; however, Δ H values accompanying the collapse of layers of Li– and Na–montmorillonite from λ ≅ 1.0 nm (three-water-layer hydrate) to λ ≅ 0.6 nm (two-water-layer hydrate), and the collapse of layers of K–montmorillonite from λ ≅ 0.6 nm (two-water-layer hydrate) to λ ≅ 0.3 nm (one-water-layer hydrate), were not negligible. No additional collapse of Li– and Na–montmorillonite layers occurred after λ ≅ 0.6 nm, and for K–montmorillonite layers after λ ≅ 0.3 nm, but Δ H continued to change with increasing salt addition. This change was attributed to the penetration of electrolyte into the interlayer space. A notable observation was that the value of Δ H was positive for Li–montmorillonite, but negative for Na– and K–montmorillonite. These observations were interpreted to mean that Δ H changes in the montmorillonite suspension were largely attributable to reorganization of the interlayer space by the added electrolytes.
Standard operating procedures and institutionalization on the psychiatric unit.

Four specific areas—suicide precautions, isolation, privileges and drug addiction—in which institutional psychiatric units apply standard operating procedures are discussed. It is suggested that such standard procedures limit operational flexibility, and create an environment in which the staff is prone to treat “behavior” rather than treating people. Energies usually applied toward standard operating procedures could better be directed toward better communication systems and development of affective and relational aspects in the unit.
Effect of puff size instuctions on puff volume

Abstract In two experiments, the flexibility of puff volume was assessed using instructions and feedback to manipulate volume. Also, the effects of altered puff volume on puff duration, puff peak flow, and carbon monoxide (CO) boost were examined. In the first experiment, subjects were told to take small, medium, and large puffs. Subjects were able to accurately follow the puff size instructions; they took different-size puffs by altering their puff durations. In the second experiment, when puff duration was controlled, subjects were able to follow the puff size instructions by altering the intensity of their puffs. These two experiments demonstrated that a wide range of puff volumes can be generated by instructional control and that volume changes can result either from alterations of puff duration or puff intensity.
Near-field microscopy of thin films: application to polymeric structures

Near field scanning optical microscopy of thin birefringent samples is described. The system utilized is the linear polarizing near field microscope, resulting in a pure birefringence image of the sample. The sign of the birefringence is also preserved. Two specific classes of sample are studied. These include thin sections of Kevlar fibers, and polymer dispersed liquid crystals. Results are correlated with simultaneously obtained topographic images. Based on experimental observations, the relative strength of the optical indices of the structures is determined
Differential Deterrence Studying Heterogeneity and Changes in Perceptual Deterrence Among Serious Youthful Offenders

Perceptual deterrence has been an enduring focus of interest in criminology. Although recent research has generated important new insights about how risks, costs, and rewards of offending are perceived and internalized, there remain two specific limitations to advancing theories of deterrence: (a) the lack of panel data to show whether issues of changes in perceptions over age and time are linked to changes in offending and (b) the lack of research on perceptual deterrence of active offenders, arguably the most policy-relevant group for these studies. Using longitudinal data on offending and perceptions of risks and punishment costs for a large sample of serious youthful offenders, the authors identify significant heterogeneity in sanction threat perceptions generally and across different types of offenders. These differences in perception reflect variation among offenders in the amount of prior information on offending on which individuals may be basing their perceptions. There likely exists a potential ...
Estimates of Water Ingestion for Women in Pregnant, Lactating, and Non-Pregnant and Non-Lactating Child-Bearing Age Groups Based on USDA's 1994–96, 1998 Continuing Survey of Food Intake by Individuals

ABSTRACT Women in the child-bearing age of 15 to 44 years and, in particular, pregnant and lactating women in this age cohort are considered a sensitive subpopulation when assessing risk from ingestion of water because water borne contaminants may pose a risk not only to the mother but to the fetus or infant. This article presents estimates of daily average per capita water ingestion for women of child-bearing age and in three subgroups: pregnant, lactating, and non-pregnant/non-lactating women. Estimates of means and upper percentiles of subgroup ingestion distributions were generated using participant responses and survey weights from the United States Department of Agriculture's (USDA) 1994–96 and 1998 Continuing Survey of Food Intake by Individuals (CSFII). The ingestion estimates are empirical and not based on an assumed parametric distribution of daily average amount of water ingestion. Water occurring naturally in foods or added by manufacturers to commercial products is not included in the estimat...
Depression, Antidepressants, and Bone Health in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Objectives: To examine the association between depression, antidepressant use, and bone health in older adults and the implications for treatment. Design: Systematic review. Setting: All studies that measured depression or antidepressant exposure and bone mineral density (BMD). Participants: Adults aged 60 and older. Measurements: Age, site of BMD measurement using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), measure of depression or depressive symptoms, association between BMD changes, and depression or antidepressant use. Results: Nineteen observational studies met the final inclusion criteria; no experimental studies were found. Several cross-sectional and longitudinal studies found that depression or depressive symptoms were associated with a decrease in BMD. Few studies and only two longitudinal studies addressed the association between serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) antidepressant use and a decrease in BMD and they had conflicting results. Conclusion: Depression and depressive symptoms are associated with low bone mass and accelerated bone loss in older adults; putative mechanisms underlying this relationship are discussed. There is insufficient evidence that SRI antidepressants adversely affect bone health. Thus, a change in current recommendations for the use of antidepressants in older adults is not justified at the present time. Given the high public health significance of this question, more studies are required to determine whether (and in whom) antidepressants may be deleterious for bone health.
An unbiased survey of field star X-ray emission

To determine the X-ray luminosity function of normal stars, 1700 stars brighter than 10th magnitude were surveyed by the imaging proportional counter aboard the Einstein Observatory. Seventy star positions were found to contain excess X-ray counting rates. The number of stars per square degree in a number of magnitude intervals was calculated as a function of spectral type and luminosity class, and the total number of stars for each spectral type brighter than magnitude 9.5 derived in this manner was compared with the 1700-star sample. The agreement is good, as is that between the surface density of soft X-ray sources and the number of stellar emitters predicted from the field star survey. It is concluded that stars probably do not contribute significantly to the diffuse soft X-ray background. The findings are consistent with the notion that stellar age and/or rotation velocity are important determinants of stellar X-ray emission level.
Suppression of schedule-induced drinking and food-reinforced bar pressing by tail-pinch is not reversed by naloxone

In Experiment 1 eleven food-deprived rats were tested in a schedule-induced drinking paradigm under both tail-pinch and non-tail-pinch conditions. Tail-pinch produced a strong suppression of schedule-induced drinking, licking, licks per milliliter, bar presses, and number of reinforcers received during 30-min test sessions. Experiment 2 showed that the narcotic antagonist naloxone (2 and 4 mg/kg) did not reverse the tail-pinch suppression of schedule-induced drinking and food-reinforced bar pressing. Experiment 3 demonstrated that the suppression of schedule-induced drinking by tail-pinch could not be attributed to a suppression of drinking behavior in general, as tail-pinch had no effect on deprivation-induced drinking. The failure of naloxone to reverse this blockade suggests that endogenous opiate systems do not play a very important role in the suppression of schedule-induced polydipsia by tail-pinch. It was suggested that the combination of both the schedule-induction paradigm and the tail-pinch procedure increased arousal levels to such a high level that all behaviors were suppressed.
Strong Goss Texture in Recrystallized Fe81Ga19 Sheet

Fe81Ga19 sheets were produced by conventional rolling procedure. Recrystallization texture dominated with strong Goss ({110}) was successfully obtained through sheet thickness by primary recrystallization annealing. The development of Goss can be attributed to the favorable shear band morphology and deformation texture derived from the applied specific rolling process.
Hydrogen recovery and purification using the solid polymer electrolyte electrolysis cell

Abstract A process is described of obtaining high-purity hydrogen characterized by bringing a hydrogen containing gas in contact with a hydrated solid polymer electrolyte cell comprised of a catalytic anode, perfluorocarbon sulfonate ion exchange membrane and a catalytic cathode. Direct current energy is supplied between the electrodes to overcome the internal resistance of the cell, dissociate the hydrogen in the gas-to-be-treated to protons, and drive the protons through the cation membrane for recovery at the opposite electrode. Experimental data on the device indicate very high efficiency and low voltages over the current density range 0–1100 mA cm –2 . Applications of the device are demonstrated for electrochemically pumping hydrogen from a low to a high pressure and separation of hydrogen from an inert gas to provide high-purity hydrogen.
Iron deficiency and obesity: the contribution of inflammation and diminished iron absorption

Poor iron status affects billions of people worldwide. The prevalence of obesity continues to rise in both developed and developing nations. An association between iron status and obesity has been described in children and adults. The mechanism explaining this relationship remains unknown; however, findings from recent reports suggest that body mass index and inflammation predict iron absorption and affect the response to iron fortification. The relationship between inflammation and iron absorption may be mediated by hepcidin, although further studies will be required to confirm this potential physiological explanation for the increased prevalence of iron deficiency in the obese.
Measuring the sustainability of hunting in tropical forests

Wild animals are an important source of protein for the rural peoples living in or near tropical forests. However, the resource can easily be overexploited and game species can become locally depleted, or even extinct. This paper discusses attempts to measure the sustainability of hunting in tropical forests. It examines five indices of sustainability in current use and two models that attempt to model sustainability.
An 'edge' element solution of electromagnetic transmission through apertures in inhomogeneously loaded cavities

Electromagnetic transmission into a conducting body through an aperture has been solved using the method of moments. The authors solve a similar problem in which an inhomogeneously loaded open cavity is under external excitation. While a surface-type method-of-moments solution alone is not possible, the finite-element method is combined with the method of moments. To avoid the occurrence of possible nonphysical solutions, the class of tangentially continuous finite elements, or edge elements, and the consistent boundary elements are used. >
Opposing Broad Patent: Scientific American's Response to Morse v. O'Reilly (1848)

In 1848, Scientific American, a popular science and technology journal, published a series criticizing Morse v. O'Reilly's (1848) confirmation of Samuel Morse's broad telegraph patent and patenting scientific principles. It attacked the decision using copia and classification, rhetoric echoed by the Supreme Court and others in reversing the 1848 decision. The journal was particularly concerned with the case's implications for Morse's patent battles with Royal House and Alexander Bain. The articles offer an opportunity to examine the rhetoric of patent debates and differences in the rhetoric of professional and scientific journals without the emotional attachments of examining contemporary issues.
Changes in microbial population during fermentation of feedlot waste with corn.

A new process for recycling feedlot waste involves the fermentation of liquid from this waste combined with corn. Changes in the flora of this silage-like fermentation were followed. The fermentation was dominated by lactobacilli and yeasts, which initially constitute 1% or less of the natural flora. The species of yeasts and lactics involved were characterized. The fermentation has two phases. A single heterolactic species multiplied rapidly for the first 24 h until it represented 95% of the lactobacilli and more than 90% of the total microflora. It displaced the betabacterium predominant among lactics of the original waste; the acid produced killed coliforms and other organisms in feedlot waste; and the acetic acid produced probably caused the death of the dominant native yeast Trichosporon cutaneum (de Beurm., Gougerot et Vaucher) Ota. The peak lactobacillus count remained constant (about 2 × 109 organisms/g [wet weight]) throughout the rest of the fermentation. Homolactics dominated the later phase and yeasts increased to 9.5 × 107 organisms/g (wet weight). At 6 days, a stable mixture of three lactobacilli was present, one streptobacterium, one thermobacterium, and one betabacterium. Similarly, yeasts stabilized as a mixture of two Candida sp. and one Pichia sp. The dominant species of lactics were characterized. Information on the sequence of microorganisms provides a basis for enhanced protein synthesis in the fermentation.
A Firm‐level Examination of the Exports Puzzle: Why East Asian Exports Didn't Increase After the 1997–1998 Financial Crisis

We analyse a detailed panel dataset on Indonesian manufacturing firms to characterise the exports puzzle: the surprising absence of export-led growth after the massive currency devaluation during the 1997-1998 Asian financial crisis. Our results show that, consistent with trade theory predictions following better terms of trade, entry into export markets increased dramatically. In conflict with the same predictions, however, many pre-crisis exporters quit exporting. Thus stagnant export growth cannot be attributable to a lack of entrepreneurial ambition or activity amongst would-be exporters. Rather, it apparently resulted from constraints prohibiting continued exporting by pre-crisis exporters. Managerial reports of perceived constraints reveal little about why so many firms ceased exporting. However, 'better' firms, as proxied by foreign ownership, involvement in research and development, or investment in training, were more likely to continue exporting post-crisis. Copyright 2007 The Authors Journal compilation 2007 Blackwell Publishing Ltd .
Application of Quantum Chromodynamics to High Transverse Momentum Hadron Production

We describe the application of QCD (Quantiim Chromodynamics) to high p⊥ (transverse moment inn) hadron production — discussing single particle and jet cross-sections and correlation measurements. We conclude that the theory is in reasonable accord with the data although uncertainties in the theory and technical ambiguities (mainly caused by the low p⊥ of most of the data) make incontrovertible conclusions impossible.
Fragility of Liver Mitochondria in Ethanol-Fed Rats

Summary Changes in the liver mitochondria of rats after chronic ethanol feeding were studied by manometric assay of succinic dehydrogenase (SD) activity and by electron microscopy of isolated liver mitochondrial fractions. Abnormalities were not detectable until the assay of SD activity had been allowed to progress for 30 min. By 60 min of assay, an increase in permeability to phenazine methosulf ate was demonstrated. This effect was obliterated by eliminating the membrane barrier to the phenazine by adding calcium to the assay media. The electron micrographs of assayed mitochondria showed that the chronic ethanol feeding induced an increase in the number of mitochondria which had lost their outer membranes and cristae, compared with the mitochondria in pair-fed control animals. This loss of outer membranes was correlated with the loss of the permeability barrier to phenazine methosulf ate, probably because the SD, located in the inner mitochondrial membrane, was made more accessible to the phenazine. Indirect evidence indicated that neither microsomal contamination nor an increase of lysosomes in the mitochondrial fraction accounted for the ethanol-induced mitochondrial alteration in the ethanol-fed rat liver. In the case of microsomal contamination, purification of the mitochondrial fraction did not alter the ethanol effect. In the case of lysosomal contamination of the mitochondria, no increase in acid phosphatase was observed in the mitochondrial fractions obtained from the ethanol-fed rats. It is concluded that the fragility of mitochondria induced by ethanol feeding is probably due to an abnormality in the mitochondrial membrane.