cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Semiconducting large bandgap oxides as potential thermoelectric materials for high-temperature power generation?

Semiconducting large bandgap oxides are considered as interesting candidates for high-temperature thermoelectric power generation (700–1,200 °C) due to their stability, lack of toxicity and low cost, but so far they have not reached sufficient performance for extended application. In this review, we summarize recent progress on thermoelectric oxides, analyze concepts for tuning semiconductor thermoelectric properties with view of their applicability to oxides and determine key drivers and limitations for electrical and thermal transport properties in oxides based on our own experimental work and literature results. For our experimental assessment, we have selected representative multicomponent oxides that range from materials with highly symmetric crystal structure (SrTiO3 perovskite) over oxides with large densities of planar crystallographic defects (Ti n O2n−1 Magneli phases with a single type of shear plane, NbO x block structures with intersecting shear planes and WO3−x with more defective block and channel structures) to layered superstructures (Ca3Co4O9 and double perovskites) and also include a wide range of their composites with a variety of second phases. Crystallographic or microstructural features of these oxides are in 0.3–2 nm size range, so that oxide phonons can efficiently interact with them. We explore in our experiments the effects of doping, grain size, crystallographic defects, superstructures, second phases, texturing and (to a limited extend) processing on electric conductivity, Seebeck coefficient, thermal conductivity and figure of merit. Jonker and lattice-versus-electrical conductivity plots are used to compare specific materials and material families and extract levers for future improvement of oxide thermoelectrics. We show in our work that oxygen vacancy doping (reduction) is a more powerful driver for improving the power factor for SrTiO3, TiO2 and NbO x than heterovalent doping. Based on our Seebeck-conductivity plots, we derived a set of highest achievable power factors. We met these best values in our own experiments for our titanium oxide- and niobium oxide-based materials. For strontium titanate-based materials, the estimated highest power factor was not reached; further material improvement is possible and can be reached for materials with higher carrier densities. Our results show that periodic crystallographic defects and superstructures are most efficient in reducing the lattice thermal conductivity in oxides, followed by hetero- and homovalent doping. Due to the small phonon mean free path in oxides, grain boundary scattering in nanoceramics or materials with nanodispersions is much less efficient. We investigated the impact of texturing in Ca3Co4O9 ceramics on thermoelectric performance; we did not find any improvement in the overall in-plane performance of a textured ceramic compared to the corresponding random ceramic.
English farming profits during the Napoleonic Wars, 1793–1815

While the movements in English prices and agricultural rents during the Napoleonic Wars are well known, relatively little attention has been paid to the incomes received by tenant farmers. This is a particularly glaring omission in view of the numerical importance of this group. According to O’Brien (1959, p. 263), just over 80% of the annual value of agricultural land, as estimated for tax purposes, was held by tenants in the first decade of the 19th century. Thus, while we know a good deal about the rents received by their landlords, we are largely ignorant of the profits earned by those Englishmen actively engaged in agricultural production during the war years. This essay is an attempt to fill that gap.
Free radical reactions of peroxidizing lipids with amino acids and proteins: An ESR study

Free radical transfer from oxidizing methyl linoleate to amino acids and proteins was studied in dry model systems incubated for periods up to 20 days. Electron spin resonance was used to study free radical production. Free radicals were detectable in the amino acids lysine, arginine, histidine, tryptophan, and cysteine. Reduced glutathione and, to a limited extent, cystine also gave free radical signals. Free radicals produced in proteins primarily showed central singlet lines, attributable to carbon-centered radicals, with g=2.004±0.001. Sulfhydryl proteins also exhibited downfield shoulders at g≄2.015 and 2.023 that were essentially identical to peaks observed in cysteine and reduced glutathione. The field positions of sulfur resonance in cysteine and proteins suggested a sulfur-oxygen complex rather than thiyl radicals.
Precision Determination of Lattice Constants with a Geiger-Counter X-Ray Diffractometer

It is shown that the Geiger-counter x-ray diffractometer can be used for precision determination of lattice constants. The zero point of the goniometer (determined by two methods) and the position of the diffraction lines ($2\ensuremath{\theta}$) were obtained with an accuracy of \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.001\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}. The temperature was kept constant by a special unit within 0.05\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C. An investigation of the systematic errors was made, which shows that the extrapolation of lattice constants vs ${cos}^{2}\ensuremath{\theta}$, according to Wilson's equation, is permissible and the vertical divergence error, as computed by Eastabrook, lies within our tolerances for $2\ensuremath{\theta}$ up to 165\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{} and may be neglected. The lattice constants of Al, Ag, Ge, Si, Ca${\mathrm{F}}_{2}$, CsI, TlCl, and TlBr, determined by extrapolation, are in good agreement with published data. The limiting factor in the accuracy of the lattice constant determination is not in the error of the diffractometer, but in the x-ray wavelength.
INCIDENCE OF DEPRESSION, CHRONIC FATIGUE AND SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION WITH BETA-BLOCKER USE: A META-ANALYSIS OF RANDOMIZED CONTROL TRIALS

Reluctance to using beta blockers may derive from concerns about their association with depression, sexual dysfunction and chronic fatigue. We used MEDLINE, Cochrane and EMBASE (through June 2011) to conduct a comprehensive search for randomized clinical trials of beta blocker use in patients with
Rational Design of Cesium-Selective Ionophores: Dihydrocalix[4]arene Crown-6 Ethers

Molecular mechanics calculations performed on calix[4]arene crown-6 ethers predict that the 1,3-dihydro derivatives will exhibit greater complementarity for potassium and cesium ions than the parent 1,3-bis(alkyloxy) calixcrowns. The X-ray crystal structures of 1,3-alt-bis(octyloxy)calix[4]arene benzocrown-6 ether, dihydrocalix[4]arene benzocrown-6 ether, and the cesium nitrate complex of dihydrocalix[4]arene benzocrown-6 ether were determined. The structure of the cesium complex corresponds closely to the structure predicted by molecular mechanics. The dihydrocalix[4]arene crown-6 ethers exhibit enhanced cesium selectivity in the extraction of alkali-metal salts. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2003)
Auditory Scene Analysis: the interaction of stimulation rate and frequency separation on pre-attentive grouping

Segregation of auditory inputs into meaningful acoustic groups is a key element of auditory scene analysis. Previously, we showed that two interwoven sets of tones differing widely along multiple feature dimensions (duration, pitch and location) were pre-attentively separated into different groups, and that tones separated in this manner did not elicit the mismatch negativity component with respect to each other. Grouping was studied with human subjects using a stimulus rate too slow to induce streaming. Here, we varied the separation of tone sequences along a single feature dimension, i.e. frequency. Frequency differences were either 24 Hz (small) or 1054 Hz (large). Two relatively slow stimulus rates were used (2.7 or 1 tone/s) to explicitly investigate grouping outside the so-called 'streaming effect', which requires rates of about 4 tones/s or faster. Two tones were presented in a quasi-random manner with embedded trains of one to four identical tones in a row. Deviants were defined as frequency switches after trains of four identical tones. Mismatch negativity was only elicited for small frequency switches at the slower stimulation rate. The data indicate that pre-attentive grouping of tones occurred when the frequency difference that separated them was large, regardless of stimulation rate. For small frequency differences, inputs were only grouped separately when the stimulation rate was relatively fast.
POTENTIATION AND APPARENT INHIBITION OF ADRENOCORTICOTROPHIC HORMONE-INDUCED MOBILIZATION OF FREE FATTY ACIDS BY CATECHOLAMINES IN VITRO.

Abstract A comparative study of the effect of adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and catecholamines on the mobilization of free fatty acids (FFA) was carried out to determine if the action of the former is mediated through the latter, or they exerted their effect independently. It was found that the perfused epididymal fat pad or isolated fat cells of the reserpinized rat was capable of responding to ACTH. Furthermore, the response of the fat cells from reserpinized as well as nonreserpinized rats to ACTH (100μU-1 mU/ml.) and to epinephrine (0.01 μg.–10 μg./ml.) were equal. When fat pads were perfused or fat cells were incubated with low concentrations of ACTH (50–200 μU/ml.) and epinephrine (0.01–0.03 μg./ml.) a synergistic effect was observed. When high concentrations of catecholamines were added to the incubation system containing isolated fat cells under aerobic conditions, an apparent inhibitory effect on FFA liberation was observed. This inhibitory effect of high concentration of catecholamines was also demonstrated when ACTH was used for the activation of the tissue lipase; this inhibition was thought to be exerted by an oxidized product of catecholamines. Fasting increased the sensitivity of fat pad to ACTH in FFA release but did not affect that to epinephrine. Evidence suggests that the effect of ACTH on FFA release is, in some respect, different from that of epinephrine and may be independent of tissue catecholamines. The finding of the synergistic effect of low concentrations of ACTH and epinephrine in controlling the mobilization of FFA from adipose tissue may be of some physiologic importance.
Three-dimensional ultrasound in the evaluation of fetal anomalies.

Objectives To determine the additional information and clinical impact provided by three-dimensional ultrasound (3D US) imaging of fetal anomalies compared to conventional 2-dimensional ultrasound (2D US). Materials and methods Sixty-three patients with 103 anomalies were scanned prospectively with both 2D and 3D US. Each anomaly was reviewed by one or more fetal imaging specialists to determine whether the 3D US data were advantageous, equivalent, or disadvantageous when compared with 2D US images. Clinical impact and pathologic or clinical outcome were determined in all cases. Results The 3D US images provided additional information in 53 anomalies (51%), were equivalent to 2D US images in 46 anomalies (45%), and were disadvantageous in four anomalies (4%). The 3D US was most helpful in evaluating fetuses with facial anomalies, hand and foot abnormalities and axial spine and neural tube defects. Planar images derived from 3D US volume data sets generally were more helpful for diagnostic purposes, whereas rendered 3D US images were more useful as a point of reference and were better appreciated by patients in understanding fetal abnormalities. Additional information provided by 3D US images impacted clinical management in 5% of patients. The 3D US images were disadvantageous in two fetuses with multiple anomalies and two with cardiac anomalies. Conclusion The 3D US offered diagnostic advantages in about one-half of the selected cases studied and had effect on patient management in 5% of cases. This modality can be a powerful adjunctive tool to 2D US in providing a more comprehensible, 3D US impression of congenital anomalies. Thus, 3D US is currently most helpful as a targeted study complementing 2D US. Copyright © 2000 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Stimulation Of Hepatocyte Glycerolipid Synthesis By Iron/ADP Is Due To ADP Rather Than Oxidative Stress

ADP-complexed Fe3+ has been used in various in vitro systems and in intact cells to induce lipid peroxidation. During studies on the effects of oxidative stress on lipid metabolism we observed a significant increase in de novo glycerolipid synthesis in Fe3+/ADP-treated rat hepatocytes as evidenced by increased [U-14C]glycerol incorporation. Here we show that this increase, largely due to enhanced triacylglycerol synthesis, is caused by ADP rather than Fe3+/ADP-induced oxidative stress. Hence, metabolic alterations due to treatment of intact cells by Fe3+/ADP must be interpreted with caution.
Toxic neuropathies: Mechanistic insights based on a chemical perspective

2,5-Hexanedione (HD) and acrylamide (ACR) are considered to be prototypical among chemical toxicants that cause central-peripheral axonopathies characterized by distal axon swelling and degeneration. Because the demise of distal regions was assumed to be causally related to the onset of neurotoxicity, substantial effort was devoted to deciphering the respective mechanisms. Continued research, however, revealed that expression of the presumed hallmark morphological features was dependent upon the daily rate of toxicant exposure. Indeed, many studies reported that the corresponding axonopathic changes were late developing effects that occurred independent of behavioral and/or functional neurotoxicity. This suggested that the toxic axonopathy classification might be based on epiphenomena related to dose-rate. Therefore, the goal of this mini-review is to discuss how quantitative morphometric analyses and the establishment of dose-dependent relationships helped distinguish primary, mechanistically relevant toxicant effects from non-specific consequences. Perhaps more importantly, we will discuss how knowledge of neurotoxicant chemical nature can guide molecular-level research toward a better, more rational understanding of mechanism. Our discussion will focus on HD, the neurotoxic γ-diketone metabolite of the industrial solvents n-hexane and methyl-n-butyl ketone. Early investigations suggested that HD caused giant neurofilamentous axonal swellings and eventual degeneration in CNS and PNS. However, as our review will point out, this interpretation underwent several iterations as the understanding of γ-diketone chemistry improved and more quantitative experimental approaches were implemented. The chemical concepts and design strategies discussed in this mini-review are broadly applicable to the mechanistic studies of other chemicals (e.g., n-propyl bromine, methyl methacrylate) that cause toxic neuropathies.
Incidence of perioperative myocardial ischemia in TURP patients.

Abstract Study Objective: To determine the incidence of new episodes of myocardial ischemia in patients undergoing transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Design: Prospective, nonrandomized study. Setting: Veterans Administration medical center. Patients: 39 patients undergoing elective TURP Interventions: None. Measurements and Main Results: Myocardial ischemia was detected with a 3-channel ambulatory ECG recorded. The ambulatory ECG recorder was applied preoperatively and removed when the patient left the recovery room. New myocardial ischemia was defined as a 1 mm or greater ST depression or a 2 mm or greater ST elevation from baseline, lasting for 1 minute or longer in at least one lead at the J point plus 60 msec unless this point fell within the T wave, in which case the J point 40 msec or greater was used. ST changes consistent with myocardial ischemia were confirmed by a cardiologist blinded to the patient's clinical course. Seven of 39 TURP patients (18%) had ST segment changes indicative of new myocardial ischemia. These seven patients had more prostate tissue resected and more blood loss than the 32 patients who did not have any myocardial ischemia (p Conclusions: Patients undergoing TURP have an 18% incidence of myocardial ischemia. Patients undergoing TURP with more prostate tissue resected and greater blood loss are at increased risk for perioperative myocardial ischemia.
Critical and controlled tests of activity of moxidectin (CL 301,423) against natural infections of internal parasites of equids.

The activity of moxidectin was evaluated in 1988 and 1989 against natural infections of internal parasites in 20 critical tests (n = 20 equids) and three controlled tests (n = 20 equids). Two formulations, injectable administered intramuscularly (i.m.) or intraorally (i.o.) and gel i.o., were given at dose rates of 0.2, 0.3 or 0.4 mg kg-1 body weight. For the critical tests (all three dose rates evaluated), removals of second instar Gasterophilus intestinalis were 93-100%, except (89%) for the injectable formulation (i.m.) at 0.2 mg kg-1. Removals of third instar G. intestinalis were 88-100% for the injectable formulation given i.m. or i.o. and 93-100% for the gel formulation, except (53%) for one batch (0.4 mg kg-1). Activity was 100% for third instar Gasterophilus nasalis, Parascaris equorum, Strongylus vulgaris and Strongylus edentatus. For Oxyuris equi, removals were 91-100%, except (27%) for one batch of the injectable formulation given i.o. at 0.3 mg kg-1. There was apparent activity against migrating S. vulgaris and S. edentatus at various dose rates and routes of administration for both formulations. At necropsy, there were local reactions observed at the injection site of three equids. In the controlled tests, dose rates were 0.2 or 0.4 mg kg-1. Removal of third instar G. intestinalis was highest for the injectable formulation given i.m. All formulations and dose rates were highly effective against S. vulgaris and S. edentatus, but variable and incomplete against O. equi. Removal was excellent on Habronema muscae and on migrating S. vulgaris and S. edentatus, although incomplete on S. vulgaris. Gasterophilus nasalis third instars and P. equorum were present in low numbers in some non-treated equids, but none were recovered from treated equids. Toxicosis was not evident.
Acidity enhances the formation of a persistent ozonide at aqueous ascorbate/ozone gas interfaces

The pulmonary epithelium, like most aerial biosurfaces, is naturally protected against atmospheric ozone (O3) by fluid films that contain ascorbic acid (AH2) and related scavengers. This mechanism of protection will fail, however, if specific copollutants redirect AH2 and O3(g) to produce species that can transduce oxidative damage to underlying tissues. Here, the possibility that the synergistic adverse health effects of atmospheric O3(g) and acidic particulate matter revealed by epidemiological studies could be mediated by hitherto unidentified species is investigated by electrospray mass spectrometry of aqueous AH2 droplets exposed to O3(g). The products of AH2 ozonolysis at the relevant air–water interface shift from the innocuous dehydroascorbic acid at biological pH to a C4-hydroxy acid plus a previously unreported ascorbate ozonide (m/z = 223) below pH ≈5. The structure of this ozonide is confirmed by tandem mass spectrometry and its mechanism of formation delineated by kinetic studies. Present results imply enhanced production of a persistent ozonide in airway-lining fluids acidified by preexisting pathologies or inhaled particulate matter. Ozonides are known to generate cytotoxic free radicals in vivo and can, therefore, transduce oxidative damage.
Investigation of binary drop rebound and coalescence in liquids using dual-field PIV technique

Experiments on binary drop collisions within an index-matched liquid were conducted for Weber numbers (We) in the range of 1–50. Drop pairs of water/glycerin mixture were injected horizontally into silicone oil and, due to gravitational effects, travelled on downward trajectories before colliding. A dual-field high-speed PIV measurement system was employed to quantify drop trajectories and overall collision conditions while simultaneously examining detailed velocity fields at the collision interface. Sequences of velocity and vorticity fields were computed for both larger and smaller fields of view. In the We range examined, both rebounding and coalescing behavior occurred. Coalescence was found to result from a combination of vortical flow within drops and strong drop deformation characteristic of higher We. Flow through the centers of opposing ring vortices, strengthened by drop deformation, enhanced drainage of the thin film in the impact region, leading to film rupture and coalescence.
The role of colony stimulating activity in modulating murine diffusion chamber granulopoiesis.

Summary . We studied the effects of high circulating Colony Stimulating Activity (CSA) levels and irradiation induced marrow hypoplasia in CF1 and C57B1/6J host mice upon granulopoiesis in intraperitoneal diffusion chamber (DC) cultures. Serial endotoxin injections resulted in marked elevation of circulating CSA for the first half of an 8 d culture period, and CSA was shown to diffuse into the chamber environment; yet this manipulation alone did not significantly accelerate DC cell growth. Pre-irradiation of the host mice produced no elevation of circulating CSA during the early phase of culture, but resulted in significant stimulation of DC granulopoiesis. Fluctuations in circulating inhibitors of in vitro granulopoiesis did not correlate well with DC cellularity. We conclude that endogenous CSA elevation does not provide an effective stimulus per se for granulocyte-monocyte proliferation within DC culture and cannot be solely responsible for mediating the exuberant DC granulopoietic response seen in the pre-irradiated host.
Dose-related behavioral, subjective, endocrine, and psychophysiological effects of the κ opioid agonist Salvinorin A in humans.

Background Salvia divinorum (Salvia) is an increasingly popular recreational drug amongst adolescents and young adults. Its primary active ingredient, Salvinorin A (SA)—a highly selective agonist at the κ opiate receptor—is believed to be one of the most potent naturally occurring hallucinogens. However, there is little experimental data on the effects of SA in humans. Methods In a 3-day, double-blind, randomized, crossover, counterbalanced study, the behavioral, subjective, cognitive, psychophysiological, and endocrine effects of 0 mg, 8 mg, and 12 mg of inhaled SA were characterized in 10 healthy individuals who had previously used Salvia. Results SA produced psychotomimetic effects and perceptual alterations, including dissociative and somaesthetic effects, increased plasma cortisol and prolactin, and reduced resting electroencephalogram spectral power. The SA administration was associated with a rapid increase of its levels in the blood. SA did not produce euphoria, cognitive deficits, or changes in vital signs. The effects were transient and not dose-related. SA administration was very well-tolerated without acute or delayed adverse effects. Conclusions SA produced a wide range of transient effects in healthy subjects. The perceptual altering effects and lack of euphoric effects would explain its intermittent use pattern. Such a profile would also suggest a low addictive potential similar to other hallucinogens and consistent with κ opiate receptor agonism. Further work is warranted to carefully characterize a full spectrum of its effects in humans, to elucidate the underlying mechanisms involved, and to explore the basis for individual variability in its effects.
Genetic analysis of male mating behaviour in chickens (Gallus domesticus). I. Artificial selection.

Reported are the results of eleven generations of mass selection for high and low cumulative number of completed matings. There is no evidence of a plateaued response to selection in either selected line. Realized heritabilities through the S11 generation are 0·16±0·01 in the high line and 0·32±0·07 in the low line. The overall response, however, is similar in both lines because selection intensity is greater in the high than in the low line. Correlated responses are observed between the selected trait and other mating traits and semen volume. Correlated responses of the selected trait with concentration and motility of spermatozoa, body weight, and breast angle are small. There is no evidence of a genetic association between the selected trait and relative aggressiveness.
Effect of CCS on the accumulation of FALS SOD1 mutant-containing aggregates and on mitochondrial translocation of SOD1 mutants: Implication of a free radical hypothesis

Missense mutations of SOD1 are linked to familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS) through a yet-to-be identified toxic-gain-of-function. One of the proposed mechanisms involves enhanced aggregate formation. However, a recent study showed that dual transgenic mice overexpressing both G93A and CCS copper chaperone (G93A/CCS) exhibit no SOD1-positive aggregates yet show accelerated FALS symptoms with enhanced mitochondrial pathology compared to G93A mice. Using a dicistronic mRNA to simultaneously generate hSOD1 mutants, G93A, A4V and G85R, and hCCS in AAV293 cells, we revealed: (i) CCS is degraded primarily via a macroautophagy pathway. It forms a stable heterodimer with inactive G85R, and via its novel copper chaperone-independent molecular chaperone activity facilitates G85R degradation via a macroautophagy-mediated pathway. For active G93A and A4V, CCS catalyzes their maturation to form active and soluble homodimers. (ii) CCS reduces, under non-oxidative conditions, yet facilitates in the presence of H(2)O(2), mitochondrial translocation of inactive SOD1 mutants. These results, together with previous reports showing FALS SOD1 mutants enhanced free radical-generating activity, provide a mechanistic explanation for the observations with G93A/CCS dual transgenic mice and suggest that free radical generation by FALS SOD1, enhanced by CCS, may, in part, be responsible for the FALS SOD1 mutant-linked aggregation, mitochondrial translocation, and degradation.
Metastasis to the adrenal gland: the emerging role of laparoscopic surgery.

Background:It is unclear whether resection of clinically isolated metastasis to the adrenal gland improves survival. Also, the role of laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) for metastasis is controversial. This study aimed to (1) identify patients who are most likely to have prolonged survival after resection of adrenal metastasis and (2) compare oncological outcomes of LA and open adrenalectomy (OA).
COMPLEX VISCOSITY‐TEMPERATURE MASTER CURVE OF CORNSTARCH DISPERSION DURING GELATINIZATION

Complex viscosity (η*) of 8% cornstarch dispersion during gelatinization at oscillatory frequencies (ω): 0.63-47.12 (rad s -1 ) was independent of the heating rates: 1.6-6.0 (°C min -1 ) when temperature was the independent variable. The influence of ω on η* was scaled by a frequency shift factor resulting in reduced complex viscosity (η* R ) versus temperature (60-95C) master curve. Similar η* R master curves were derived for data on 6% and 3.5% dispersions. A modified Cox-Merz rule correlated the complex and apparent viscosity data, and a power law model described the effect of concentration of the gelatinized structures.
Neuronal activity triggers calcium waves in hippocampal astrocyte networks

Abstract The recent discovery that the neurotransmitter glutamate can trigger actively propagating Ca 2+ waves in the cytoplasm of cultured astrocytes suggests the possibility that synaptically released glutamate may trigger similar Ca 2+ waves in brain astrocytes in situ. To explore this possibility, we used confocal microscopy and the Ca 2+ indicator fluo-3 to study organotypically cultured slices of rat hippocampus, where astrocytic and neuronal networks are intermingled in their normal tissue relationships. We find that astrocytic Ca 2+ waves are present under these circumstances and that these waves can be triggered by the firing of glutamatergic neuronal afferents with latencies as short as 2 s. The Ca 2+ waves closely resemble those previously observed in cultured astrocytes: they propagate both within and between astrocytes at velocities of 7–27 μm/s at 21°C. The ability of tissue astrocyte networks to respond to neuronal network activity suggests that astrocytes may have a much more dynamic and active role in brain function than has been generally recognized.
Quasiparticle band structure of Na and simple metals

We have made absolute measurement of the quasiparticle band structure of Na(110) using angle-resolved photoemission. These data show that the occupied band is parabolic but with an 18% narrowing in bandwidth compared to self-consistent band calculations. A simple model calculation of the self-energy correction for a homogeneous electron gas produces good agreement with the data, if a dielectric response beyond the random-phase approximation is included. Experiment and theory are compared for other simple metals.
Flat slant surfaces in complex projective and complex hyperbolic planes

For surfaces in complex space forms with almost complex structure J, flat surfaces are the simplest ones from intrinsic point of view. From J-action point of view, the most natural surfaces are slant surfaces. The classification of flat slant surfaces in C2 was done in [2]. In this paper we apply a result of [5] to study flat slant surfaces in CP 2 and CH 2. We prove that, for any θ, there exist infinitely many flat θ-slant surfaces in CP 2 and CH 2. And there does not exist flat half-minimal proper slant surface in CP 2 and in CH 2.
Analyses of Changes in the Ratios of Male‐to‐Female Cancer Mortality A Hypothesis‐Generating Exercise

Site-specific cancer trends are particularly useful indicators to identify cancers that should be subject to further case-control research to identify causes of the rate changes. One of the most sensitive of trends is that of the ratio of male-to-female rates, especially by age groups. This ratio is likely to eliminate rate changes due to better diagnosis, treatment, and cancer ascertainment. Also some lifestyle changes may be eliminated by considering the male-female ratio as they equally affect both genders. On the other hand, some may produce substantial effects. The finding of large increases in male-female cancer mortality ratios at specific sites in the United States and in all cancers, except lung, in several countries suggests that case-control studies of some sites are worthy of consideration to identify the gender-related differences. Because most male rates are increasing relative to females, any case-control study should certainly include occupational factors among those investigated.
Manufacturing in the corporate strategy

This article presents a review of the book “Manufacturing in the Corporate Strategy,” by Wickham Skinner.
On the Uniqueness of the Density for the Invariant Measure in an Infinite Hyperbolic Iterated Function System

We consider a regular infinite hyperbolic iterated function satisfying a property which guarantees that the associated Frobenius-Perron operator ℒ is almost periodic. For such a system there is a unique invariant probablility measure μ supported on J, the limit set of the system and which is equivalent to the conformal measure m of the system. In this note we will demonstrate two properties of dμ/dm. Firstly, we show that there is a unique positive continuous function on X, ρ such that ℒρ = ρ and ∫ ρdm = 1. This function is the density of μ with respect to m. Secondly, we show that \(\{ \mathcal{L}(\coprod _X )\} _{^{n = 1} }^\infty\) converges uniformly to ρ on X.
Clinical Evidence for the Role of Trichomonas vaginalis in Regulation of Secretory Leukocyte Protease Inhibitor in the Female Genital Tract

Background. Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor (SLPI) is responsible for regulating inflammatory damage to and innate and adaptive immune responses in the vaginal mucosa. Depressed cervicovaginal SLPI levels have been correlated with both Trichomonas vaginalis infection and poor reproductive health outcomes. Methods. We measured levels of SLPI in 215 vaginal specimens collected from adolescent and young adult females aged 14–22 years. Log-transformed SLPI values were compared by analysis of variance or by an unpaired t test before and after adjustment for confounding effects through the propensity score method. Results. Females receiving hormonal contraceptives and those with an abnormal vaginal pH had lower SLPI levels as compared to their peers. After propensity score adjustment for race, behavioral factors, hormonal use, and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), SLPI levels were lower in females with a positive T. vaginalis antigen test result, a vaginal pH >4.5, vaginal leukocytosis, and recurrent (vs initial) T. vaginalis infection, with the lowest levels observed in those with the highest T. vaginalis loads. Conclusions. The SLPI level was reduced by >50% in a T. vaginalis load–dependent manner. Future research should consider whether identifying and treating females with low levels of T. vaginalis infection (before they become wet mount positive) would prevent the loss of SLPI and impaired vaginal immunity. The SLPI level could be used as a vaginal-health marker to evaluate interventions and vaginal products.
Generative Models for Fingerprint Individuality using Ridge Types

Generative models of pattern individuality attempt to represent the distribution of observed quantitative features, e.g., by learning parameters from a database, and then use such distributions to determine the probability of two random patterns being the same. Considering fingerprint patterns, Gaussian distributions have been previously used for minutiae location and von-Mises distributions for minutiae orientation so as to determine the probability of random correspondence (PRC) between two fingerprints. Motivated by the fact that ridges have not been modeled in generative models, and using representative ridge points in fingerprint matching, ridge information is incorporated into the generative model by using a third distribution for ridge types. The joint probability of minutiae location, minutiae orientation and ridge type is modeled as a mixture distribution. The proposed model offers a more accurate fingerprint representation from which more reliable PRCs can be computed. Based on parameters estimated from fingerprint databases, PRCs using ridge types are seen to be much smaller than PRCs computed with only minutiae.
Contribution of predation and parasitism to mortality of citrus leafminer Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) populations in Florida

Abstract The citrus leafminer (CLM), Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton, is native to southern Asia and regarded as an important pest in nurseries and young or top-worked citrus trees in Florida. Damage to the leaf cuticle increases susceptibility to citrus canker disease and further aids spread by increasing inoculum loads. Biological control agents are known to play an important role in regulating pest populations. We evaluated individual contributions of predation and parasitisation to cohorts of P. citrella by exclusion and by direct observation of leaf mines in the field. Predation, particularly by ants, was the largest single cause of P. citrella mortality, accounting for more than 30% of all deaths by natural enemies, and 60% of all deaths by predators. First and second instars of P. citrella were most subject to ant predation. Ageniaspis citricola was the most important parasitoid of P. citrella and caused 8.2–28.6% mortality compared to 9.6–14.7% from indigenous parasitoids. The total biotic mortality of P. citrella observed in exclusion experiments was 52–85%. These results were in basic agreement with 89% mortality, predominantly by predation, obtained by reconstructing a cohort from observations of recently mined leaves. A partial life table based on these data predicted an innate rate of increase ( R o ) of 2.8 and thus an almost 3-fold increase per generation. These results indicate that, while biotic mortality takes considerable toll of P. citrella populations, the predominance of predation suggests that the parasitoid complex on this exotic pest in Florida is depauperate and would likely be improved by additional introductions.
Cuba: defeating mother-to-child transmission of syphilis.

The Lancet Editors ( July 11, p104) recently commented on successes in Cuba in elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV infection as a public health threat; however, this Editorial neglected to address the important point that this was a dual effort to validate the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of both HIV infection and syphilis. WHO certifi ed that Cuba had eliminated mother-to-child transmission not only of HIV, but also of syphilis. We were not surprised that The Lancet would omit one of the most neglected, but still common, sexually transmitted infections. Syphilis affects more pregnancies worldwide than does HIV infection. Maternal syphilis infections cause hundreds of thousands of adverse outcomes of pregnancy, including fetal loss or stillbirth, prematurity or low birthweight, neonatal death, and syphilis infection in the infant. In women with HIV, syphilis infection during pregnancy is associated with more than a 2·7 times increased risk of mother-to-child HIV transmission. The similarities in screening recommendations for HIV infection and syphilis (ie, testing at first antenatal visit) provide an important opportunity to strengthen eff orts to eliminate congenital syphilis together with prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV—both highpriority initiatives that can help countries to reach common goals of improved maternal health and decreased mortality of children aged younger than 5 years. Rapid, dual point-of-care tests have been created that can detect antibodies to both HIV and Treponema pallidum, the organism that causes syphilis. Emergence of dual rapid tests for HIV infection and syphilis can result in earlier detection, reduced loss to follow-up, expanded case fi nding outside clinical settings, and enhanced global control of syphilis and HIV. Results of studies have shown that dual tests are accurate and reproducible in both fi eld and laboratory settings. However, compared with no syphilis testing, even moderate performance is associated with enhanced detection and treatment of infections. With those fi ndings, donors and national health programmes should feel confident that further investments in the implementation of dual testing would produce expected benefits through increased uptake of testing and streamlined procurement and implementation that can lead to improved maternal and newborn health outcomes. Cuba can be the fi rst of many to eliminate motherto-child transmission of syphilis and HIV infection, and dual rapid tests can make programme integration an achievable reality.
DDT vs.Wildlife Relationships Between Quantities Ingested, Toxic Effects and Tissue Storage*

Abstract Young and adult quail and pheasants were fed diets containing DDT.Chemical analysis of tissues indicated that quantities of DDT stored were not proportional to total amounts administered nor to duration of exposure, but were related to the severity of toxic symptoms.Concentration of the toxicant in breast muscle of birds dying of acute DDT poisoning was approximately 34 jug./ Gm.in adult quail and 22 jug./Gm.in adult pheasants.
Youth and Parental Correlates of Externalizing Symptoms, Adaptive Functioning, and Academic Performance: An Exploratory Study in Preadolescent Blacks

The effects of youth and parenting factors on school functioning were assessed in a preadolescent sample of 70 Blacks. Attitudes about deviance and types of peer associations were reported by youth, and perceived achievement control and hostile control were provided by parents. Additional information about academic performance, adaptive functioning, and externalizing symptoms was recounted by teachers. Multiple regression analyses indicated that hostile control was positively related to delinquency symptoms and that achievement control was negatively associated with academic performance. These analyses also revealed that the modeling of negative behaviors by friends was positively related to aggression and delinquency symptoms and that perceptions of academic competence were positively associated with adaptive functioning and academic performance. Although replication of the current findings is clearly needed, the findings highlight the mutual influences of parental and youth factors to academic adjustmen...
Initiation of Base Excision Repair of Oxidative Lesions in Nucleosomes by the Human, Bifunctional DNA Glycosylase NTH1

Oxidative lesions account for much of the spontaneously occurring DNA damage in normal cells and, left unrepaired, can be mutagenic or cytotoxic. We have investigated the capacity of purified human enzymes to initiate the base excision repair (BER) of oxidative lesions in model nucleosomes. In a construct where the minor groove of a thymine glycol lesion faced outward from the histone octamer, the human DNA glycosylase NTH1 (hNTH1) processed the lesion with nearly the same efficiency as in naked DNA. The hNTH1 reaction did not generate free DNA, indicating that the first step in BER occurred without irreversibly disrupting nucleosomes. Instead, lesion processing entailed the formation of nucleosome-hNTH1 ternary complexes that could be visualized in a gel mobility shift assay. These complexes contained both processed and unprocessed DNA. hNTH1 processing of lesions whose minor groove faced toward the histone octamer was poor at low hNTH1 concentrations but increased substantially as hNTH1 concentrations increased to nearly physiological levels. Additionally, an inward-facing lesion near the nucleosome edge was more efficiently processed than one closer to the nucleosome dyad. These observations suggest that access to sterically occluded lesions entails the partial, reversible unwrapping of DNA from the histone octamer, allowing hNTH1 to capture its DNA substrate when it is in an unwound state.
Mechanical Systems With Nonideal Constraints: Explicit Equations Without the Use of Generalized Inverses

In this paper we obtain the explicit equations of motion for mechanical systems under nonideal constraints without the use of generalized inverses. The new set of equations is shown to be equivalent to that obtained using generalized inverses. Examples demonstrating the use of the general equations are provided.
Vision for mobile robot navigation: a survey

Surveys the developments of the last 20 years in the area of vision for mobile robot navigation. Two major components of the paper deal with indoor navigation and outdoor navigation. For each component, we have further subdivided our treatment of the subject on the basis of structured and unstructured environments. For indoor robots in structured environments, we have dealt separately with the cases of geometrical and topological models of space. For unstructured environments, we have discussed the cases of navigation using optical flows, using methods from the appearance-based paradigm, and by recognition of specific objects in the environment.
Covert Racism in the USA and Globally

Covert racism, born out of imperialist needs to maximize profit at the expense of racialized others, stands shielded by institutions, culture, stereotypical assumptions, and tradition. Whereas overt racism assumed blatant and insidious forms, covert racism hides behind the facade of ‘politeness’, political correctness and expediency. Racially coded words and calls for racial blindness obfuscate the reality of this subtle, subversive, and often hidden form of racism. Covert racism, just like its twin overt racism, is neither innocent nor harmless. The scars of covert racism, often seen in terms of increased levels of disease, negative sanctions, inadequate information, and lost opportunities – serve to continually victimize racial nonelites.
Neurodegeneration from mitochondrial insufficiency: nutrients, stem cells, growth factors, and prospects for brain rebuilding using integrative management.

Degenerative brain disorders (neurodegeneration) can be frustrating for both conventional and alternative practitioners. A more comprehensive, integrative approach is urgently needed. One emerging focus for intervention is brain energetics. Specifically, mitochondrial insufficiency contributes to the etiopathology of many such disorders. Electron leakages inherent to mitochondrial energetics generate reactive oxygen “free radical” species that may place the ultimate limit on lifespan. Exogenous toxins, such as mercury and other environmental contaminants, exacerbate mitochondrial electron leakage, hastening their demise and that of their host cells. Studies of the brain in Alzheimer’s and other dementias, Down syndrome, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington’s disease, Friedreich’s ataxia, aging, and constitutive disorders demonstrate impairments of the mitochondrial citric acid cycle and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) enzymes. Imaging or metabolic assays frequently reveal energetic insufficiency and depleted energy reserve in brain tissue in situ. Orthomolecular nutrients involved in mitochondrial metabolism provide clinical benefit. Among these are the essential minerals and the B vitamin group; vitamins E and K; and the antioxidant and energetic cofactors alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), ubiquinone (coenzyme Q10; CoQ10), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, reduced (NADH). Recent advances in the area of stem cells and growth factors encourage optimism regarding
Some Characteristics of Eggs from Estrogen-Fed Pullets

Abstract BOTH natural and synthetic estrogens are known to have marked effects on the oviducts of immature female fowl, Juhn and Gustavson (1928), Asmundson et al. (1936), Munro and Kosin (1943) and Herrick (1944). Some of the changes which take place in the female with the onset of laying are believed to be caused by estrogen i.e., rise in blood fat, hypertrophy of the oviduct and vent, and a rise in blood calcium. Previous reports by the present authors (1950) have indicated that exogenous estrogen supplied orally may affect ovulation and calcium metabolism. Very little has been published regarding the effects of gonadal hormones upon the eggs laid by treated hens. Asmundson (1931) injected estrogen into Single Comb White Leghorn pullets and Barred Plymouth Rock hens without apparent effect on the weights of eggs laid. The above author weighed yolk, albumen and shell separately but did not detect any effects on . . .
Narrative Situation in Tonomine Shosho monogatari

This paper will discuss the development of a hybrid form of poetry and prose which became the norm of prose works in classical Japanese literature and the effect such prose and the abundance of epistles and dialogue had on the narrative structure of a tenth century tale, Tonomine Shosho monogatari (The Tale of the Lesser Captain of Tonomine). At first such narrative techniques seem to yield a narration in the first person. However, upon closer examination one realizes that it is not a first person narrative in the usual sense of the term. The narrator is not a well delieneated personality, let alone a character in the tale; she is a kind of “communal story-telling persona,”“a voice of an undifferentiated narrative self,” placed in the text more out of linguistic necessity than aesthetic, authorial choice. An ever present persona, not even effaced when her characters are on stage, the narrator has her characters speak through her, using her voice, much as the ventriloquist “talks” for his doll. One scholar terms this unique narrative point of view, “the speaker's point of view,” for the narration seems to occur only from the perspective of a narrator who necessarily sees, participates in, or hears about the events, and whose perspective exhibits a psychological, conceptual, and perceptual uniformity with character, reader, and even author.