cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
SO2 adsorption on Pt(111): HREELS, XPS and UPS study

Abstract The chemistry of SO 2 on Pt(111) has been studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy (UPS), temperature programmed desorption (TPD) and high resolution electron energy loss spectroscopy (HREELS). At 100 K, SO 2 adsorbs molecularly through the S and one O atom. Photoemission results indicate that significant charge transfer occurs between the Pt d-band and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital of SO 2 . Molecular orbital analysis reveals that atop and two-fold sites are energetically feasible for SO 2 adsorption, but two-fold sites are more favorable. Upon heating to 300 K, SO 2 molecules undergo desorption and dissociation. The latter leads to adsorbed S, SO and SO 4 . An SO 2 lattice vibration mode was observed by HREELS when an SO 2 multilayer was dosed at 100 K; and it was enhanced when SO 2 was dosed at 110 K. There is a resonance in this feature as the incident electron energy is varied, which implies that a nondipolar scattering process contributes. Multilayer SO 2 , formed upon adsorption at 100 K, is metastable.
Signifying Contortions: Disavowal, The Enigmatic Signifier, and George W. Bush’s Credibility After 9/11

“Signifying Contortions” attempts to account for Bush's credibility by reflecting on three psychological processes that lead people to tolerate the misleading and contradictory discourse of a leader. Laplanche's theory of the way children process the “enigmatic signifiers” coming from their parents explains why an authority figure's verbal fumblings and contradictions would evoke in his followers not only tolerance, but a deep attachment to him. Through a process of disavowal, the paper argues, certain signifiers related to 9/11 – such as “World Trade Center” – have been emptied of their meaning; President Bush's words serve as a fetish that seals over the gap made by these collective disavowals. Freud said that members of a group see in their leader the embodiment of each member's ego ideal; I claim that Bush both defends and embodies not the ego ideal described by Freud, but the nation's collective ideal ego, as that is described by Lacan. The three modes of contorted signifying function to preserve the idealized self-image of the all-good, all-beneficent USA, which came under attack on 9/11. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The use of Frame's method for the characteristic polynomials of chemical graphs

The evaluation of characteristic polynomials of graphs of any size is an extremely tedious problem because of the combinatorial complexity involved in this problem. While particular elegant methods have been outlined for this problem, a general technique for any graph is usually tedious. We show in this paper that the Frame method for the characteristic polynomial of a matrix is extremely useful and can be applied to graphs containing large numbers of vertices. This method reduces the difficult problem of evaluating the characteristic polynomials to a rather simple problem of matrix products. The coefficients in the characteristic polynomial are generated as traces of matrices generated in a recursive product of two matrices. This method provides for an excellent and a very efficient algorithm for computer evaluation of characteristic polynomials of graphs containing a large number of vertices without having to expand the secular determinant of the matrix associated with the graph. The characteristic polynomials of a number of graphs including that of a square lattice containing 36 vertices are obtained for the first time.
Marching cores: a method for extracting cores from 3D medical images

The authors present an algorithm, called marching cores, that generates cores of 3D medical images and also generalizes to finding implicitly defined manifolds of codimension greater than one. As one marches along the core, one use medialness kernels to generate new medialness values and then find ridges in the extended medial space using the geometric definition of height ridges and mathematical models of manifold intersections. Results from both a test image and a CT image illustrate the algorithm.
Saving users from themselves: creating an effective student-oriented anti-virus intervention

The proliferation of computer viruses, Trojans, and other malicious code in recent years has presented a serious challenge to higher education computer services support programs. Outside of higher education, most IT departments mandate anti-virus policies through central management of end-user systems and software. In an academic environment where student systems are owned by the users and not institutions, however, such an approach is not always tenable, and the weaker forces of user education, persuasion, and service level agreements must prevail.This paper describes the anti-virus intervention strategy devised and executed by FAS Computer Services at Harvard University during the 2000-01 academic year. The approach chosen focused on both providing innovative technical approaches to combating computer viruses and carrying out an intensive and targeted publicity campaign to carry the anti-virus message to every student on campus. In this paper, the rationale for the chosen approach is examined vis-a-vis rejected alternatives, and strategies and goals for future interventions are presented.
Modeling photon density waves with the equation of radiative transfer

We present an algorithm that provides frequency-domain solution of the equation of radiative transfer (ERT) for heterogeneous media of arbitrary shape. Two numerical simulations are presented.
Wire vascular closure device: evaluation of an evidence-based protocol for post-endovascular procedure patients.

Vascular closure devices (VCDs) can shorten the time to hemostasis, ambulation and discharge and improve patient comfort. 1 An evidence-based practice (EBP) project was initiated to assess impact of a shortened postoperative compression and bed rest protocol on patients undergoing arteriotomy using a wire vascular closure device (WVCD). Following protocol development, a post-implementation evaluation was initiated to assess selected outcomes including compression and bed rest time, complication rate and possible related variables. Following implementation of the new protocol, clinicians were able to shorten both compression and bed rest times by 50%, and Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) length of stay decreased to a maximum of 5 hours.
Werdnig-Hoffmann disease: proposal of a pathogenetic mechanism.

Light and electron microscopic study and morphometric analysis were performed on the spinal cords and roots from six cases of acute Werdnig-Hoffmann disease and four control cases, in search of the pathogenesis of the selective motor neuron changes considered primarily responsible for Werdnig-Hoffmann disease. This investigation posits a centrifugal traction mechanism based upon the discovery of cylindrical outgrowths of glial bundles, selective loss of large myelinated fibers, and axonal degeneration in the proximal portion of anterior spinal roots (and to a lesser extent in posterior spinal roots) in all six disease cases. This traction mechanism exerts principally upon anterior spinal nerve roots and can account for morphologic and morphometric data characteristically ascribed to Werdnig-Hoffmann disease.
Mechanics of low density materials

Abstract Mechanics analyses are used to derive the effective elastic moduli for low density materials. Both open cell and closed cell geometric models are employed in the case of isotropic media. The five independent effective moduli are derived for a low density transversely isotropic medium. Compressive strength, as defined by elastic stability, is also derived for open cell and closed cell isotropic materials. The theoretical results are compared with some experimental results, and also are assessed with respect to previous work.
Signing On and Sounding Off: Presidential Signing Statements in the Eisenhower Administration, 1953–61

This article represents an important step in understanding early, modern presidents’ strategic use of signing statements by taking a sharp focus on the presidency of Dwight D. Eisenhower. In contrast to recent presidents who have used the instrument increasingly to challenge legislative provisions, Eisenhower's use of signing statements was rather complex—from political credit-claiming, explaining the provisions of bills to the American public, and reinforcing his views on the federal-state balance of power—to maintaining bipartisan relations on foreign policy, shaping implementation of congressional bills, and selectively criticizing Congress for overspending. The theoretical framework devotes particular attention to the interplay of contexts—electoral, institutional, and economic—on Eisenhower's use of signing statements by policy area across his two terms.
Computer gaming technology education: Advanced 3D laboratory and courseware

The Department of Computer Science and Information Systems (CS/IS Department) at Bradley University (Peoria, IL) designed, developed and implemented innovative courseware in Computer Game Technology (CGT). The crucial components of CGT teaching/learning immersive environment are the advanced 3D Lab for Computer Gaming Technology, and cross-listed CGT undergraduate and graduate courses. This paper presents technical specifications of the developed 3D Lab, various components of the developed CGT courseware, and recommendations for teaching CGT courses.
Effects of particle structure on CO hydrogenation on Ni on SiO2

Abstract The effects of oxidation-reduction cycling on the morphology, surface composition, hydrogen uptake, and kinetics of CO hydrogenation over silica-supported Ni catalysts have been studied by hydrogen chemisorption, kinetics in a differential flow reactor, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) in a rapid transfer reactor system. When Ni particles (∼4% dispersion, ∼250 A diameter) are oxidized at 460 °C and then reduced in H2 at 300 °C, hydrogen chemisorption areas increase while methanation activities decrease. Heating progressively up to 650 °C produces a decrease in surface area and an increase in methanation activity. XPS confirms total oxidation and reduction of Ni by 350 °C. TEM shows that particles spread on the SiO2 surface upon oxidation and form clusters of smaller Ni particles upon low-temperature reduction. These results show that solid-state redispersion occurs upon oxidation-reduction cycling but that the methanation activity is low on freshly reduced Ni. It is argued that the activity change is caused by a lower activity on high index planes of smaller particles of Ni which may be associated with preferential buildup of carbon on these planes. These transformations can be produced reversibly on fairly large particles, and these structures can be metastable for long times under reaction conditions.
The Malevolent Leader: Political Socialization in an American Sub-Culture

Perhaps the most dramatic finding of recent research on the political socialization of children is that youngsters appear to be overwhelmingly favorably disposed toward political objects which cross their vision. Officers and institutions of government are regarded as benevolent, worthy, competent, serving and powerful. The implications of such findings are striking indeed. Childhood political dispositions may represent the roots of later patriotism; we may be observing the building of basic regime-level supportive values at a very young age. These findings are by no means new; in fact, they might be classified as part of the conventional wisdom of the discipline. Moreover, they are extremely well documented, and the study of childhood political socialization has advanced to consider far more than basic regime-level norms. Despite all this, however, there are still many empirical questions to be asked about such norms. Perhaps the recent assertion that the political scientist's model of socialization is “static and homogeneous” is particularly apropos here. Consider two closely related characteristics of the appropriate literature: 1) the “positive image” which children have about politics and political figures has been synthesized from data gathered largely in the United States and to some extent in urban, industrialized communities within the United States; and 2) empirical explanation of the favorable disposition which children manifest has not progressed very far. Though there may be hypotheses about how children get this way, there has been little systematic testing of the relationships between variables.
A thermal activation model for 1/ƒy noise in Si-MOSFETs

Abstract Detailed measurements of the temperature dependence of noise power spectra in a series of commercial p-channel MOSFETs are presented. It was found that both the magnitude and the functional form of the voltage noise power spectral density varied greatly in the range between 60 and 260 K. The experimental results were compared to first-principle calculations which showed that the noise was due to the capture and emission of carriers by oxide traps through thermal activation. The process caused fluctuations in both the density and the surface mobility of the channel carriers through the modulation of the surface potential and the scattering rate respectively.
Moving beyond the What to the Why: Differences in Professional and Popular Science Writing.

This article argues that an understanding of professional and popular science writers' goals provides a basis for both explaining and evaluating their language use. Rhetoricians fault scientists for unnecessarily stilted language; scientists fault popularists for inaccuracy and sensationalism. Although these charges are sometimes justified, they deflect attention from the obstacles writers face and the ways in which they use language to overcome these obstacles.
On Exploiting degrees-of-freedom in whitespaces

TV Whitespaces, recently opened up by the FCC for unlicensed use by wireless devices, are seen as a potential cellular offload solution, especially in dense metros. However, under the new database-driven guidelines, there are typically very few whitespace bands available in such dense metros to a high-powered fixed device, which plays the role of a cellular base station in whitespaces. To address the lack of degrees-of-freedom (DoF) with this traditional architecture of one high-powered serving device, we propose a novel base station design that co-locates and networks together many low-powered devices to act as a multiple-antenna array. Lower-powered whitespace devices have access to more spectral DoF, a property that is unique to whitespaces. In the first part of the paper, we solve an array design problem where we estimate the size of the array required to meet long-term (worst-case) throughput targets. Using extensive simulations, we show that by effectively exploiting both spatial and spectral DoF, the array design outperforms the traditional design in most network conditions. Specifically, the proposed design can support throughputs of the order of a WiMAX cell running applications such as high-definition television. In the second part of the paper, we turn our attention to the operational aspects of such a design. Recognizing that the proposed array can potentially contain hundreds of elements, we propose a dynamic ON-OFF power control algorithm that operates in conjunction with the MaxWeight data scheduling algorithm and responds to the current network state - queues and channels - of the system, thus making the system power-efficient.
Emission of Radiation from a System of Many Excited Atoms

The Weisskopf-Wigner theory of the natural linewidth of a single isolated atom is extended to a system of $N(\ensuremath{\gg}1)$ identical nonoverlapping atoms which are all in the same excited state at time $t=0$. The positions ${\mathrm{X}}_{1}\ensuremath{\cdots}{\mathrm{X}}_{N}$ of the atoms are assumed to fill a volume $\mathcal{U}$ of given shape and size with macroscopically constant density. Emission of radiation from this system takes place only in the form of one narrow, but nonzero-width, bundle of nearly equal photons, which contains all the emitted radiation. If the density of atoms within $\mathcal{U}$ exceeds a certain threshold, the rate of emission of photons has the form of a typical spike. All effects depend sensitively on the shape and size of $\mathcal{U}$ and on the density of atoms within $\mathcal{U}$, and cannot be explained in conventional terms of spontaneous or stimulated emission of radiation.
On-line versus off-line computation in dynamic text compression

In this paper, we compare on-line and off-line coding in the finite case. This models situations such as distribution of data on CD-ROM where much time can be spent encoding but decoding must be fast and simple.
Time-resolved optical backscattering from highly scattering media

A time-resolved backscattering model, which combines a single large-angle scattering with multiple small-angle scattering‘ is used to produce scattered light profile about the medium. While a multiple small-angle scattering leads to light at near-forward direction, a single large- angle scattering transfers the direction of light to the backward hemisphere. This model can be served as a forward model for image reconstruction of highly scattering media, since inhomogeneity of the medium is included in the model. Some multidimensional integrals can be evaluated analytically, which greatly saves computational time.
Induction of tyrosine hydroxylase expression in rat forebrain neurons.

Abstract Olfactory nerve input is required for the normal expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) by dopaminergic neurons in the glomerular region of the rodent main olfactory bulb. To determine whether the olfactory nerve exerts a similar influence on neurons in other brain regions, we performed unilateral bulbectomies in rat pups on postnatal day 5–7 and examined the brains 2–6 months later, after the regenerated olfactory nerve had penetrated the forebrain. Tissue was stained for TH, dopamine β-hydroxylase (DBH) and olfactory marker protein immunoreactivity. We observed novel TH-immunoreactivity in neurons located in those areas of the adult forebrain which received olfactory nerve fibers, particularly the rostral extension of the subependymal layer. Many of these neurons resembled the periglomerular cells of the olfactory bulb. No cell staining for DBH was observed in these areas, suggesting the possible dopaminergic phenotype of these neurons. Our data indicate that afferent regulation of neurotransmitter expression by the olfactory nerve is not limited to the cells of the olfactory bulb.
Vote-o-graph: a dishonest touchscreen voting system

We present Vote-O-Graph, an experimental touchscreen voting system designed to simulate reported interface issues in existing electronic voting systems. Touchscreen miscalibration and the application of relative touch coordinates in anonymity-preserving user interface event logs are discussed.
The clinical use of magnetic resonance imaging in pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis.

Study design Retrospective chart review of 103 cases. Objectives To describe the clinical use of magnetic resonance imaging in a pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis. Summary of background data Long delays in diagnosing pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis of the spine have been shown in many reports. Magnetic resonance imaging has been advocated as the imaging method of choice in suspected spinal infections. The use, accuracy, and timing of magnetic resonance imaging in pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis have not been reported in a large series. Methods In 103 patients with pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis who underwent magnetic resonance imaging at or before the time of diagnosis, the author reviewed the clinical findings and results of the magnetic resonance imaging, timing with respect to symptom duration and diagnosis, and accuracy of readings in detecting spinal infection. Follow-up magnetic resonance imaging reports also were reviewed. Results Magnetic resonance imaging appeared to give the correct diagnosis or suggest pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis as a possible diagnosis in 55% and 36% of cases, respectively, with less than 2 weeks of symptoms. After 2 weeks, the percentages of correct and possible diagnoses of pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis increased to 76% and 20%, respectively. Magnetic resonance imaging was obtained within 1 month of the start of symptoms in 73% of cases. The diagnosis was made within 1 month in the most cases as well, compared with a 2- to 6-month delay in most series. Follow-up magnetic resonance images often gave impressions of progressive disease, where the clinical picture appeared to improve. Conclusions Magnetic resonance imaging is valuable in suggesting the diagnosis even very early in the clinical course of pyogenic vertebral osteomyelitis. Its use may eliminate significant delays in diagnosis. The use of magnetic resonance imaging in following the therapeutic response remains to be defined.
The Influence of Exposure to Depictions of Race and Crime in TV News on Viewer's Social Judgments

This two-study experimental design utilizes a group-based priming framework to investigate the relationship between exposure to television news portrayals that intersect race with violent crime and viewers' real-world racial judgments. Results from Study 1 reveal that both the gender of the viewer and the race of the TV news suspect influence subsequent judgments, including attributions about the perpetrator and victim. Findings from Study 2 offer somewhat consistent results, additionally indicating that the race of the depicted suspect has a significant effect on attitudes toward Blacks in greater society, beyond the mediated context.
Eliminate Bullying in Your Classroom

Significant negative effects have been documented on the physical and emotional health of both bullies and their victims (Weinhold, 2000). Bullying has been defined as behavior that is “intentional...
The role of pedagogical content knowledge in motor skill instruction: comments and questions on Walkwitz & Lee, 1992.

(1992). The Role of Pedagogical Content Knowledge in Motor Skill Instruction: Comments and Questions on Walkwitz & Lee, 1992. Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport: Vol. 63, No. 4, pp. 444-446.
High dose ascorbate supplementation fails to affect plasma homocyst(e)ine levels in patients with coronary heart disease.

Abstract Pharmacologic doses of folate, in the absence of clinical folate deficiency, can reduce plasma levels of the putatively atherothrombotic amino acid, homocysteine (H(e)). Data suggesting that H(e) may accumulate in experimental scurvy prompted us to explore the efficacy of high dose ascorbate supplementation as a H(e)-lowering treatment, in the absence of clinical ascorbate deficiency. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 12 weeks of high dose (4.5 g/day) ascorbate supplementation was completed by 44 patients with established coronary heart disease. No significant change in mean fasting total plasma H(e) levels was demonstrable despite a marked increase in mean fasting plasma Asorbate levels amongst those patients randomized to active treatment. Ascorbate supplementation to prevent the development of fasting hyperhomocysteinemia may only be relevant at scorbutic levels of plasma ascorbate.
Seasonal effects of temperature on the respiratory metabolism of the collared peccary (Tayassu tajacu)

Abstract 1. 1. Information on metabolism, heat flux, evaporation, heart rate and respiration for winter- and summer-acclimatized collared peccaries (Tayassu tajacu) was obtained using an open-flow respiratory chamber. 2. 2. Peccaries exhibited a narrow thermal neutral zone with a lower critical temperature of 25°C in winter or 28°C in summer and an upper critical temperature of 30 or 35°C, respectively. 3. 3. To compensate for poor insulation, winter animals exhibited an increased basal metabolic rate. 4. 4. Body core temperatures were labile and ranged from 37·5 to 40·9°C for both groups. Both body core temperatures and skin temperatures remained above ambient over the entire temperature range employed (10–40°C). This facilitated heat loss to the environment under warm conditions, but hampered heat balance during cold temperatures. 5. 5. Winter animals appeared to be more severely heat stressed by high temperature due to their higher metabolic rate and poorer heat-dissipating mechanism.
Age and sex differences in averaged evoked responses in a normal population, with observations on patients with gonadal dysgenesis

Abstract Visual and auditory average evoked responses (AERs) were studied in 166 normal males and females from age 6 to 60 and in 10 patients with chromatin negative gonadal dysgenesis (45 XO). Females of all ages and patients with 45 XO exhibited larger amplitude AERs than men. No correlation between cephalometric roentgenographs and AER amplitude was found to explain these differences. Younger subjects exhibited larger AER amplitude and greater increases in amplitude with increasing stimulus intensity; latencies were shorter and increased with increasing intensity rather than decreasing as in older subjects. These findings suggest that levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) or gonadal steroids cannot be the only determinants of the sex differences observed. From the data on patients with 45 XO, it may be hypothesized that the absence of the Y chromosome may be associated with the female AER pattern.
The librarian as research informationist: a case study

Question How can an embedded research informationist add value to the scientific output of research teams? Setting The University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) Louise M. Darling Biomedical Library is an academic health sciences library serving the clinical, educational, and research needs of the UCLA community. Methods A grant from the National Library of Medicine funded a librarian to join a UCLA research team as an informationist. The informationist meets regularly with the research team and provides guidance related to data management, preservation, and other information-related issues. Main results Early results suggest that the informationist's involvement has influenced the team's data gathering, storage, and curation methods. The UCLA Library has also changed the librarian's title to research informationist to reflect the new activities that she performs. Conclusion The research informationist role provides an opportunity for librarians to become effective members of research teams and improve research output.
An evaluation of solution algorithms and numerical approximation methods for modeling an ion exchange process

The focus of this work is on the modeling of an ion exchange process that occurs in drinking water treatment applications. The model formulation consists of a two-scale model in which a set of microscale diffusion equations representing ion exchange resin particles that vary in size and age are coupled through a boundary condition with a macroscopic ordinary differential equation (ODE), which represents the concentration of a species in a well-mixed reactor. We introduce a new age-averaged model (AAM) that averages all ion exchange particle ages for a given size particle to avoid the expensive Monte-Carlo simulation associated with previous modeling applications. We discuss two different numerical schemes to approximate both the original Monte-Carlo algorithm and the new AAM for this two-scale problem. The first scheme is based on the finite element formulation in space coupled with an existing backward difference formula-based ODE solver in time. The second scheme uses an integral equation based Krylov deferred correction (KDC) method and a fast elliptic solver (FES) for the resulting elliptic equations. Numerical results are presented to validate the new AAM algorithm, which is also shown to be more computationally efficient than the original Monte-Carlo algorithm. We also demonstrate that the higher order KDC scheme is more efficient than the traditional finite element solution approach and this advantage becomes increasingly important as the desired accuracy of the solution increases. We also discuss issues of smoothness, which affect the efficiency of the KDC-FES approach, and outline additional algorithmic changes that would further improve the efficiency of these developing methods for a wide range of applications.
Gas permeation in miscible homopolymer‐copolymer blends: II. Tetramethyl bisphenol‐A polycarbonate and a styrene/acrylonitrile copolymer

Gas sorption and transport properties for He, H2, O2, N2, Ar, CH4, and CO2 at 35°C near atmospheric pressure have been obtained for miscible blends of tetramethyl bisphenol-A polycarbonate (TMPC) and a random copolymer of styrene with acrylonitrile (SAN) containing 9.5% by weight of acrylonitrile. All gas permeability, diffusion, and solubility coefficients obtained are lower than that calculated from the semilogarithmic additivity rule. These results are qualitatively interpreted by ternary solution theory and activated state theory which have been proposed to describe gas sorption and diffusion in miscible blends. The negative deviation of gas permeabilities for the blends from this rule can be explained semiquantitatively by free volume theory which takes volume contraction on mixing into account. The negative deviation increases with gas molecular size which results in larger ideal gas separation factors than that calculated from the additivity rule. For He/CH4 and H2/CH4 pairs, the permselectivities for the blends are higher than that for either pure TMPC or SAN. The deviation from additivity for gas transport properties of TMPC/SAN blends is the opposite of that observed in the first paper of this series for PMMA/SAN blends. This can be attributed to the stronger interactions in TMPC/SAN blends than in PMMA/SAN blends.
Real time acoustic imaging by holographic interferometry.

Abstract A two-step real time acoustic imaging system is presented. The system incorporates a novel acoustic image coupler which transfers an acoustical interference pattern from a water-bounded to an air-bounded surface with vibration amplitude amplification. An original technique termed stepbiased real time holographic interferometry is used to convert the amplified mechanical vibration pattern, which carries all information about the insonified object, into a visual image with improved sensitivity.
MRI guided and monitored focused ultrasound thermal ablation methods: a review of progress.

This paper reviews the current status in using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to guide and monitor thermal coagulation of tumours using focused ultrasound. The patient treatment procedure with a second generation phased array system will be described. Several clinical trials have found that patient treatments are feasible and that MRI thermometry allows non-invasive monitoring of clinical treatments. Overall, this emerging modality holds significant potential for non-invasive tumour treatment of both benign and malignant tumours.
Colony size and reproduction in the western harvester ant, Pogonomyrmex occidentalis.

We report data from a four-year field study on the relationship between colony size and reproduction in the western harvester ant, Pogonomyrmex occidentalis. In all years, the likelihood of reproduction significantly increased with increasing size in both field censuses during naturally-occurring mating flights and experimentally-watered colonies whose entire reproductive output was collected. However, the total amount of reproductive biomass was unrelated to colony size. We describe the size threshold for reproduction in P. occidentalis and show that it varies across years. Once colonies become reproductively mature, they reproduce consistently although not in every year. We describe a method for collecting the entire reproductive output for desert ants whose reproductive flights are cued by rainfall.
Equations for Ngas and Nair in terms of Nx and Nk.

Task Group 21 of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine defined the cavity-gas calibration factor {ital N}{sub gas} for ionization chambers in a protocol for radiotherapy dosimetry published in this journal (Med. Phys. {bold 10}, 741 (1983)). Later, Schulz {ital et} {ital al}., (Med. Phys. {bold 13}, 755 (1986)) published a letter of clarification that proposed a revised equation for {ital N}{sub gas} in which the effect of atmospheric humidity was specifically dealt with. The present report points out errors in both of those presentations of the {ital N}{sub gas} equation, and derives formulations for cases where the standardization laboratory does or does not correct for ambient humidity during chamber calibration. In the case where humidity is corrected for, the resulting quantity is more properly called {ital N}{sub air}.'' The {ital N}{sub gas} equation is stated in terms of the air kerma calibration factor {ital N}{sub {ital K}} as well as the more familiar exposure calibration factor {ital N}{sub {ital X}}.
The biological function of Pavlovian conditioning: The best defense is a good offense.

Signaled presentations of a rival male produce an aggressive conditional response in several species of fish. Although conditioning of such species-specific display behavior has been described previously, the biological function of this learning phenomenon has remained unknown. I present experimental evidence that signaled territorial intrusion enables a male blue gourami to defend his territory more aggressively than when the intruder is unsignaled. In Experiment 1, pairs of territorial males, with different conditioning histories, confronted one another for the first time. One member of the pair previously had received Pavlovian conditioning, whereas the other pair member had received explicitly unpaired presentations of the same signal--conditional stimulus (CS)--and rival male--unconditional stimulus (US). In the subsequent encounter, which was signaled by CS presentation, Pavlovian males delivered significantly more bites and tailbeatings than did their control group opponents. Experiment 2 relied upon a different control procedure, a US-only condition, but, again, Pavlovian males enjoyed a significant aggressive advantage. These results suggest an important ecological role for Pavlovian conditioning.
Presence of Biventricular Dysfunction in Patients With Type II Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been found to be associated with depressed left ventricular (LV) function. Right ventricular (RV) function in DM patients, however, has not been well studied. The goal of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of LV and RV dysfunction in patients with DM. A series of 157 patients underwent simultaneous measurement of LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and RV ejection fraction (RVEF). Four of 26 DM patients had RVEF <30% (15.4%) vs 4 of 126 controls (3.2%) (P=.01). Eleven of 27 (40.7%) patients with DM had LVEF <30% vs 9 of 128 controls (7%) (P<.0001). Using multivariate analysis, DM remained independently associated with severely decreased biventricular function (RVEF <30%; odds ratio, 5.7; confidence interval, 1.3-25.4 [P=.02] and LVEF <30%; odds ratio, 12.9; confidence interval, 3.8-43.7 [P<.0001]). These results suggest that diabetic cardiomyopathy involves both ventricles as an independent pathologic process.
A kinematic analysis of tepal growth in Lilium longiflorum.

Time-lapse marking experiments indicate that the growth of tepals in Lilium longiforum Thunb. from 3.7 mm to maturity is triphasic. Phase I (tepal lengths 3.7–10 mm) is characterized by spatial and temporal variation in growth rate and, in the epidermis, a random distribution of mitoses with an acropetal increase in cell area. During phase II (10–90 mm) cell elongation and (later) cell division is restricted largely to basal regions. Cell division ceases when tepals are less than one-third of their mature length of 155 mm. Phase III (90–155 mm) is characterized by the gradual transition from basal to apical growth, and a modification of epidermal cell shape. A sharp peak in growth at the extreme tip of the tepal coincides with anthesis.
Uptake and distribution of 4,4'-diacetyl-diphenyl-urea-bis-guanylhydrazone in sensitive and resistant sarcoma 180 cells in vitro☆

Abstract Sarcoma 180cells sensitive to 4,4'-diacetyl-diphenyl-urea-bis-guanylhydrazone (DDUG) were compared with a resistant subline (S-180/DDUG) with respect to crossresistance to methylglyoxal-bis-guanylhydrazone (CH 3 G), 2-chloro-4',4″-bis(2-imida-zolin-2-yl)-terephthalanilide (NSC 38280) and vincristine (VCR); they were also compared with respect to the nature and rate of cellular uptake of DDUG and its intracellular distribution and binding. Resistance to DDUG was found to be associated with a reduced rate of uptake of DDUG while the intracellular distribution (65–70 per cent in nuclei and 30 per cent in mitochondria) and the capacity for lipid-associated drug binding was unchanged. The uptake was a rapid passive process leading to extensive intracellular accumulation; it was not affected by CH 3 G or VCR, but was inhibited by NSC 38280 or Janus Green. S-180/DDUG cells were cross-resistant to NSC 38280 but sensitive to CH 3 G and VCR, while S-180/VCR cells were cross-resistant to NSC 38280 but sensitive to DDUG and CH3G. In uptake, intracellular distribution and binding DDUG resembles NSC 38280. Combination and cross-resistance studies suggest a lack of similarity between DDUG, NSC 38280, VCR and CH 3 G with respect to the site of growth inhibitory action.
Steady and oscillatory bimodal convection

Steady three-dimensional convection in the form of bimodal cells in a fluid layer heated from below with rigid boundaries is studied through numerical computations for Prandtl numbers in the range 10 [lsim ] P [lsim ] 100. The stability of the steady solutions with respect to disturbances of various symmetries has been analysed. Typically, the range of stable steady bimodal convection is restricted by the transition to oscillatory bimodal convection. The oscillations preserve the spatial symmetry of the steady bimodal convection pattern in the case of high P and higher wavenumbers, but break it in the case of lower P or lower wavenumbers in the range that has been investigated. Some comparisons are made with experimental observations. The transition from bimodal to knot convection has also been studied.
Evaluating the TRQ Import Licensing Mechanisms in the Canadian Chicken Industry

Tariff rate quotas (TRQs) were introduced at the end of the Uruguay Round to support market access following the tariffication of nontariff barriers to trade in agriculture. The allocation of import licenses under the TRQ regime in the Canadian chicken industry is currently made according to discretionary criteria. The welfare properties of this import licensing scheme are evaluated in comparison with a less discretionary allocation method such as first-come, first-served (FCFS) using a numerical model. The analysis also provides a welfare evaluation of both methods as the current minimum access commitment for chicken imports is expanded. It is found that total welfare in the Canadian chicken industry is likely to be higher under a TRQ administration method based on nondiscretionary criteria such as firstcome, first-served. However, particular assumptions about the chicken producers’response to increased foreign competition can reverse this finding. Moreover the welfare differences between the two license administration schemes are less important when market access to imports is substantial. L'Accord sur l'Agriculture a enterine l'usage de contingents tarifaires pour promouvoir l'acces aux marches suite a la tarification des barrieres non tarifaires. Les permis d'importation du contingent tarifaire dans l'industrie canadienne du poulet sont presentement alloues en utilisant des criteres historiques. Les proprietes de bien-etre du present systeme d'allocation des permis sont evaluees en comparaison avec les effets d'un systeme d'allocation des permis de type “premier-arrive, premier-servi” (PAPS). L'analyse permet aussi de simuler l'impact sur le bien-etre des differents groupes de l'industried'une augmentation de l'acces minimum au marche sous le contingent tarifaire. Les simulations demontrent que le systeme de type PAPS augmente generalement le bien-etre total de l'industrie. Cependant, des hypotheses particulieres entourant le comportement des producteurs suite a l'augmentation des importations peut modifier cette conclusion. De plus, les differences de bien-etre entre les deux methodes sont moins importantes plus l'acces des produits importes au marche local est eleve.
Australian Teacher Education Reforms: Reinforcing the Problem or Providing a Solution?.

Educational reform represents a long-term focus of Australian governments. National policy documents have emphasised quality education for all and improved teacher quality for over 30 years. The gaps in achievement among various groups of learners represent a problem for an education system seeking to achieve national quality benchmarks, standardised levels of teacher quality and common outcome for all Australian learners. The national response to address this condition includes a set of initiatives to standardise teacher quality. This paper includes descriptions of selected national quality initiatives: the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA), the Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership (AITSL), the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) and Education Services Australia (ESA). Their inclusion provides the reader with an opportunity better to understand these initiatives. The paper concludes with a discussion of some potential scenarios result...
Using CloudRFID middleware for fuel supply control of vehicles fleets

Public transportation companies aim to incorporate quality and modern technologies on their services hoping to achieve the optimization of the employed material resources. Although the available resources are controlled, there is a lack of reliability in the process involved, mainly due human interactions which are subject to failures. This work presents an RFID system for fuel supply control of vehicles fleets. The system is based on a modular and adaptative RFID middleware (CloudRFID) which surveys as a foundation to the development of RFID applications. The outcome of this work demonstrates the advantages of the integration of RFID systems with process and business functionalities involving resources control and automation.
Efficiency considerations of donor fatigue, universal access to ARTs and health systems.

Objectives To investigate trends in official development assistance for health, HIV and non-HIV activities over time and to discuss the efficiency implications of these trends in the context of achieving universal access to treatment and health systems. Methods Official development assistance for health, HIV programmes and non-HIV programmes were tracked using data from 2000 to 2009. A review of the literature on efficiency, treatment and health systems was conducted. Findings The rate of growth of donor funding to HIV programmes has slowed in recent years at levels below those required to sustain programmes and to move towards universal access to treatment. These trends are likely due to increased pressure on foreign aid budgets and donor fatigue for HIV programmes. Conclusions There is great need to consider how the limited resources available can be used most efficiently to increase the number of lives saved and to ensure that these resources also benefit health systems. Improving efficiency is much more than just improving the productive efficiency and also about ensuring that resources are going to where they will be the most beneficial and making investments that are the most efficient over time. These choices may be essential to achieving the goal of universal access to treatment as well as the sustainability of these programmes.
Large-scale model quality assessment for improving protein tertiary structure prediction

Motivation: Sampling structural models and ranking them are the two major challenges of protein structure prediction. Traditional protein structure prediction methods generally use one or a few quality assessment (QA) methods to select the best-predicted models, which cannot consistently select relatively better models and rank a large number of models well. Results: Here, we develop a novel large-scale model QA method in conjunction with model clustering to rank and select protein structural models. It unprecedentedly applied 14 model QA methods to generate consensus model rankings, followed by model refinement based on model combination (i.e. averaging). Our experiment demonstrates that the large-scale model QA approach is more consistent and robust in selecting models of better quality than any individual QA method. Our method was blindly tested during the 11th Critical Assessment of Techniques for Protein Structure Prediction (CASP11) as MULTICOM group. It was officially ranked third out of all 143 human and server predictors according to the total scores of the first models predicted for 78 CASP11 protein domains and second according to the total scores of the best of the five models predicted for these domains. MULTICOM’s outstanding performance in the extremely competitive 2014 CASP11 experiment proves that our large-scale QA approach together with model clustering is a promising solution to one of the two major problems in protein structure modeling. Availability and implementation: The web server is available at: http://sysbio.rnet.missouri.edu/multicom_cluster/human/. Contact: ude.iruossim@ijgnehc
Acellular vascular tissues: natural biomaterials for tissue repair and tissue engineering

Various research groups around the world are actively investigating cardiovascular prostheses of biological origin. This review article discusses the need for such bioprosthetics and the potential role for natural tissues in cardiovascular applications such as cardiac valves and vascular grafts. Upon implantation, unmodified natural materials are subject to chemical and enzymatic degradation, seriously decreasing the life of the prosthesis. Therefore, methods such as glutaraldehyde and polyepoxide crosslinking treatments and dye-mediated photooxidation have been developed to stabilize the tissue while attempting to maintain its natural mechanical properties. Also, residual cellular components in a bioprosthetic material have been associated with undesired effects, such as calcification and immunological recognition, and thus have been the motivation for various decellularization processes. The effects of these stabilization and decellularization treatments on mechanical, biological and chemical properties of treated tissues have been investigated, specifically with regard to calcification, immunogenicity, and cytotoxicity concerns. Despite significant advances in the area of cardiovascular prostheses, there has yet to be developed a completely biocompatible, long-lasting implant. However, with the recent advent of tissue engineering, the possibility of applying selective cell seeding to naturally derived bioprosthetics moves us closer to a living tissue replacement.