cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Numerical specification of discrete least favorable prior distributions

A broad class of statistical decision problems are solved by minimax procedures which are Bayes with respect to discrete least favorable prior distributions. A general algorithm for specifying such distributions is presented which exploits the statistical properties of minimax procedures. The algorithm is demonstrated by characterizing the procedure which simultaneously minimizes a Bayes risk and a maximum risk under different loss functions in a simple multi-objective decision problem.
A probabilistic FLEET model with individual vehicle reliability requirements

Abstract The maximal covering and location set covering problems have recently been extended by the introduction of randomness into the availability of servers. These two models sited only one type of servers, for example, ambulances. In this paper, we utilize the notion of randomness in server availability in a system with two types of servers — the fire protection system. We show here how to site limited numbers of engine companies, truck companies and fire stations in such a way as to maximize the calls for service which have an engine company available within an engine covering distance with reliability α and a truck company available with the same reliability within a truck covering distance. Thus, coverage is achieved when both types of vehicles are each individually available with reliability α. A formulation is presented for this simple structure and computational experience is offered.
Cardiac myxomas – 22 years single center experience

Primary cardiac tumors are rare with an incidence of 0.0013 and 0.03% in collected autopsy series. 75% of primary cardiac tumors are benign. In adults 50% of benign cardiac tumors are myxomas. This report summarizes our 22 year experience with cardiac myxomas. Aim of our study was to analyse the presentation of myxoma and review the short and long term outcome after myxoma excision. During the years 1986 to 2007, 32 patients were operated for myxoma.13 male (40.7%) and 19 female (59.3%) within an age range of 16 to 72 years, underwent surgical excision of primary or recurrent intra cardiac tumors. Seven patients (21.87%) presented with obstructive symptoms and 12 patients (37.55%) with embolic manifestations. In the embolic group, five patients (41.6%) had peripheral artery embolism and six (50%) had a cerebrovascular event and one presented with Left Pulmonary Artery embolism (8.33%). Twenty two patients (72.2%) had left atrial myxoma, eight patients (22.2%) had right atrial myxomas and two patients (5.5%) had biatrial myxomas. Two of the left atrial myxomas (6.25%) were recurrent lesion. The Surgical management was complete wide excision on Cardio pulmonary bypass. There were no early deaths. Twenty seven patients are on regular follow-up in class I symptoms with no documented recurrences. Obstructive symptoms is the common mode of presentation followed by embolic manifestation. Trans-thoracic echocardiography, supplemented by trans esophageal echocardiography when necessary forms the mainstay of diagnosis. Surgical excision of atrial myxoma gives excellent short term and long term results.
Effects of Interview Mode on Assessments of Erectile and Ejaculatory Dysfunction among Men with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

In a randomized experiment (N = 249; age 50 + years), this study examined if self-reports of erectile dysfunction (ED) and ejaculatory dysfunction (EjD) symptomatology were influenced by the mode of interview administration (computer-assisted self-interview [CASI], audio computer-assisted self-interview [ACASI], or computer-assisted personal interview [CAPI; involving an interviewer]). This study also examined if mode moderated person variables hypothesized to impact self-reports (social desirability, age, or depressive mood). No main or moderating effects of mode were found for self-reports of EjD symptoms. However, mode effects on reports of ED symptoms were observed, and these moderated age and social desirability effects on self-reports. Significantly more older (relative to younger) men reported high levels of ED symptoms when interview administration was by a live interviewer (CAPI) than with self-administration. Alternatively, significantly more younger men reported high levels of ED symptoms when administration was by an interviewer (CAPI) or by ACASI (vs. CASI). The Mode × Social Desirability effects were complex (see the Discussion section), showing hypothesized effects under ACASI and CAPI conditions, but an opposite effect under the CASI condition. The stability of self-reported ED symptoms did not vary by mode (based on test-retest comparisons); test-retest was significantly higher for EjD symptoms within the ACASI condition. The impact of mode of administration on self-reports of ED/EjD symptoms is less predictable and dramatic than one might conclude from prior research with other types of self-report outcomes. The findings are consistent with a small, but growing, body of studies that illustrate highly situational effects of interviewing, which may depend on a complex interplay between modes, person variables, and the interview topic/target items. Self-administered methods, in particular, may not be a universal solution to response bias.
A duopoly theory of government money production: The 1930s and 1940s

Abstract During the 1930s and 1940s, the Treasury and Fed possessed significant monetary powers. To explain the interaction of these agencies during this period, I develop a theory of money production which assumes each party is interested in increasing the seigniorage associated with their production. The theory implies that the two agencies will engage in specific forms of cooperation. An examination of monetary policy procedures in the 1930s and 1940s indicates that the cooperation view of the Fed and Treasury relationship has more explanatory power than traditional views.
Some Metaethical Desiderata and the Conceptual Resources of Theism

In this paper, I argue that theists are extremely well-situated with respect to developing metaethical accounts that qualify as ‘robust’ versions of moral realism. In the first part of the essay, a number of metaethical desiderata are identified. In the second part, theistic strategies for accommodating those desiderata are explained and defended. The upshot is that, contrary to the received philosophical wisdom, there are good theoretical reasons for theistic philosophers to seek to develop metaethical accounts that ground moral facts in facts about God.
Preparation and properties of Sr2VO4Cl and Sr2VO4Br with the spodiosite—type structure

Abstract The com pounds Sr2VO4Cl and Sr2VO4Br have been prepared in single crystal form by a flux reaction technique. Both crystallize in the Pbcm space group of the mineral spodiosite, Ca2PO4F. Lattice constants, IR and Raman spectra, and fluorescent emission spectra are reported. Under 2537A excitation, Sr2VO4Cl and Sr2VO4Br fluoresce in the blue and green, respectively.
LARGE-SAMPLE ANALYSIS FOR A STOCHASTIC EPIDEMIC MODEL AND ITS PARAMETER ESTIMATORS

This paper considers the simplest stochastic model for the spread of an epidemic in a closed, homogeneously mixing population. Approximate methods are presented for calculating the probability distribution of the epidemic size (i.e. number of infected individuals). In fact, a functional central limit theorem and a large deviation principle for the epidemic size when the population increases are shown. These results enable us to both obtain a global approximation for the epidemic size and study asymptotic properties of other random variables depending on the complete history of the epidemic. As an application of our results, we derive two sequences of estimators for the contact rate and analyze their asymptotic behaviour.
Update on Results of Multifield Conformal Radiation Therapy of Non—Small-Cell Lung Cancer Using Multileaf Collimated Beams

Abstract We evaluated the treatment outcome for 5-field 3-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT) in 46 consecutive patients with unresectable, nonmetastatic non—small-cell lung cancer treated from 1993-2001. Four percent of the patients had stage I tumors, 6% had stage II, 44% had stage IIIA, and 46% had stage IIIB tumors. The median radiation therapy (RT) dose to the gross tumor volume with a median of 467.5 cc (range, 75.0-3073.0 cc) was 6120 cGy (range, 3000-6840 cGy). Thirty-one of 46 patients (67.4%) received combined chemoradiotherapy. Mean follow-up was 13.2 months (range, 3-159 months). Survival for stage III patients was 48.7% ± 9.1% at 1 year and 25.0% ± 8.4% at 2 years, with a median survival of 12.0 months ± 4.4 months. The local control rate for stage III patients was 66.8% ± 9.4% at 1 year and 28.5% ± 10.4% at 2 years. Patients who received chemotherapy had better survival ( P = 0.0533) and local control ( P = 0.0984) compared with patients receiving RT alone. Esophageal toxicity ≥ grade 3 was significantly greater in combined chemoradiotherapy patients (29% early, 13% late) compared to the patients receiving RT alone (0% early and late). Pulmonary toxicity (early and late) was limited to grades 1/2 in 24% of patients and early grade 3 in 2% of patients. Chemotherapy appears to improve survival and local control when added to 3D-CRT in this series. The addition of concurrent chemotherapy to RT significantly increased esophageal toxicity (within acceptable levels) and did not effect pulmonary toxicity in this series.
A procedure for inverting large symmetric matrices

In the least squares method for simultaneous adjustment of several parameters, the coefficients of the normal equations are the elements of a symmetric positive-definite matrix. In order to solve the normal equations and evaluate the precision measures of the resulting parameters, inversion of this matrix of coefficients is required. Many available procedures for matrix inversion do not take advantage of the symmetry. Thus, when programmed for a high-speed computer, all n2 elements must be stored and manipulated, whereas only n(n + 1)/2 of them are independent. In order to allow a computer of given memory capacity to handle a large matrix, the following procedure for inverting a symmetric matrix has been devised.1
Consequences of the Condorcet Jury Theorem for Beneficial Information Aggregation by Rational Agents

“Naive” Condorcet Jury Theorems automatically have “sophisticated” versions as corollaries. A Condorcet Jury Theorem is a result, pertaining to an election in which the agents have common preferences but diverse information, asserting that the outcome is better, on average, than the one that would be chosen by any particular individual. Sometimes there is the additional assertion that, as the population grows, the probability of an incorrect decision goes to zero. As a consequence of simple properties of common interest games, whenever “sincere” voting leads to the conclusions of the theorem, there are Nash equilibria with these properties. In symmetric environments the equilibria may be taken to be symmetric.
Regulation of vascular smooth muscle contraction by extracellular Na

1. 1. The effects of extracellular Na+ removal on agonist-induced contraction of vascular smooth muscle in vitro are reviewed. 2. 2. The effects of extracellular Na+ removal on contraction vary depending upon the agonist and vessel. 3. 3. Factors that may influence the effects of extracellular Na+ removal on agonist-induced contraction include the compound substituted for Na+, time of tissue exposure to lowered extracellular Na+, concentration of extracellular Na+, agonist concentration, presence of the vascular endothelium and presence of basal tone. 4. 4. The potential influence of these factors needs to be determined and minimized, in studies that investigate the role of extracellular Na+ in agonist-induced contraction.
Rebellious youth in Colonial Africa

‘That rebellious youth’ alarmed colonial authorities and elders alike is increasingly an issue for historians. This article surveys the issue as an introduction to the two studies that follow. It considers both the creation of images of youthful defiance as part of a debate about youth conducted largely by their seniors and the real predicaments faced by young people themselves. Concern revolved around the meanings of maturity in a changing world where models of responsible male and female adulthood, gendered expectations and future prospects were all in flux. Surviving the present and facing the future made elders anxious and divided as well as united the young. The article concludes by suggesting a number of areas, including leisure and politics, where the voice of youth might be more clearly heard, and proposes comparisons – with the past, between racial groups and between ‘town’ and ‘country’ – that link the varied experiences of the young.
An interference filter for observing the photospheric network

Photographs of the Sun, recently obtained with a violet interference filter (λ ≃ 3840 A), show the photospheric network (or photospheric faculae) with a contrast of typically 20% across the entire solar disk. Since this network is cospatial with photospheric magnetic fields, one is able to determine thepositions (not polarity) of these magnetic fields with fairly modest equipment. Furthermore, numerous dark structures and a faint dark network can be seen through the violet filter.
Evidence for the Predominance of Subsurface Defects on Reduced Anatase TiO2(101)

Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) images taken on a freshly cleaved anatase TiO2(101) sample show an almost perfect surface with very few subsurface impurities and adsorbates. Surface oxygen vacancies are not typically present but can be induced by electron bombardment. In contrast, a reduced anatase (101) crystal shows isolated as well as ordered intrinsic subsurface defects in STM, consistent with density functional theory (DFT) calculations which predict that O vacancies (V_{O}'s) at subsurface and bulk sites are significantly more stable than on the surface.
EVALUATION OF A COMPUTER-SIMULATION MODEL FOR HUMAN AMBULATION ON STILTS

Stilts are elevated tools that are frequently used by construction workers to raise workers 18 to 40 inches above the ground without the burden of erecting scaffolding or a ladder. Some previous studies indicated that construction workers perceive an increased risk of injury when working on stilts. However, no in-depth biomechanical analyses have been conducted to examine the fall risks associated with the use of stilts. The objective of this study is to evaluate a computer-simulation stilts model. Three construction workers were recruited for walking tasks on 24-inch stilts. The model was evaluated using whole body center of mass and ground reaction forces. A PEAK™ motion system and two Kistler™ force platforms were used to collect data on both kinetic and kinematic measures. Inverse- and direct-dynamics simulations were performed using a model developed using commercial software — ADAMS and LifeMOD. For three coordinates (X, Y, Z) of the center of mass, the results of univariate analyses indicated very small variability for the mean difference between the model predictions and the experimental measurements. The results of correlation analyses indicated similar trends for the three coordinates. Plotting the resultant and vertical ground reaction force for both right and left feet showed small discrepancies, but the overall shape was identical. The percentage differences between the model and the actual measurement for three coordinates of the center of mass, as well as resultant and vertical ground reaction force, were within 20%. This newly-developed stilt walking model may be used to assist in improving the design of stilts.
Magnetization of compositionally modulated CuNi films

We report static magnetization measurements on the compositionally modulated ferromagnetic alloy Cu/Ni, which, contrary to earlier ferromagnetic resonance measurements, show the moment per Ni atom is reduced relative to pure Ni. The low‐temperature magnetization is found to vary linearly with modulation amplitude, but, surprisingly, the Curie temperature is found to be almost amplitude independent.
Synergism of calcium-ethanehydroxybisphosphonate (CaEHBP) and FeC13: controlled release polymers for preventing calcification of bioprosthetic aortic wall

Abstract Controlled release delivery implants based on ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) copolymer were studied for prevention of calcification of aortic wall in an intracirculatory rat allograft model. The calcium salt of ethanehydroxybisphosphonate (CaEHBP) and ferric chloride (FeCl3) were used as anti-calcification drugs either in combination or separately in solvent-cast EVA films. These matrices were characterized in vitro for their drug release at 37°C at pH 7.4 (0.05 M HEPES buffer). Inulin was included in the single drug loaded systems as an inert filler to obtain comparable loadings. The films released the drugs in vitro continuously over 60 days without any rapid burst phase. For rat allograft studies controlled release matrices or non-drug EVA films were sutured periadventitially to the aortic wall allografts to study the anticalcification efficacy for 30 days. The calcium and phosphorous levels of the explanted allografts were quantified. Controlled release films releasing both the drugs (CaEHBP and FeCl3) together synergistically inhibited calcification of the aortic walls. CaEHBP alone releasing from EVA polymer was partially effective, and EVA films releasing only FeCl3 did not inhibit calcification at all. Overall, no adverse effects on somatic growth or recipient bone morphology were noted following controlled release drug administration.
Characterization and surface treatment of FED phosphors

Wet chemical treatments have been performed on phosphor particles. ZnO:Zn phosphor was reductively etched with a basic aqueous solution of sodium borohydride. The etch resulted in a two-fold increase in the cathodoluminescent efficiency without any detected change in particle size or surface composition as detected by Auger electron spectroscopy. The low-voltage cathodoluminescent characteristics are particularly enhanced. The enhanced efficiency of the phosphor particles may be attributable to a change in surface structure or an increase in the surface coverage of luminescent centers induced by the reductive etch.
Synthesis of a MoSi2/SiC Composite in Situ Using a Solid State Displacement Reaction

Solid state displacement reactions are being studied at Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) as a method of synthesizing intermetallic and ceramic composites in situ. A high-strength in situ composite of MoSi2/SiC was synthesized using a solid state displacement reaction between Mo2C and Si. Diffusion couples between Mo2C and Si processed at 1200°C revealed the formation of aligned SiC platelets in a MoSi2 matrix. In situ composites were also synthesized by blending Mo2C and Si powders and vacuum hot-pressing the powders at 1350°C for 2 h followed by 1 h at 1700°C. The resulting microstructure consisted of 1-μm diameter SiC particles (30 vol%) uniformly dispersed in a fine grained MoSi2 matrix. Densities of 5.53 g/cm3 were obtained along with a microhardness of 14.2 GPa. Bend bars and chevron-notched bars revealed a strength of 475 MPa and a fracture toughness of 6.7 MPa√m at room temperature. Bend strengths increased to 515 MPa at 1000°C and then decreased to 112 MPa at 1200°C. Measured fracture toughness increased to 10.5 MPa√m at 1050°C.
Stimulation of germination and respiration of the spores of Bacillus megatherium by manganese and monovalent anions.

1. The addition of manganese in a concentration as low as 1.8 x 10–5 M stimulates both respiration and germination markedly and eliminates the need for heat activation of spores respiring in inorganic salts-glucose. 2. Rapid germination and respiration of B. megatherium spores require a proper balance of ions in the nutrient medium. The repressive effect of a high phosphate concentration can be eliminated or balanced by chloride, or by other monovalent anions. Adenosine can relieve the necessity for chloride in such a system.
Temperature and host species affect nuptial gift size in a seed-feeding beetle

Summary 1In many insects species, males contribute large nutritional gifts to females during mating, generally as seminal fluids (ejaculates) or spermatophores. These nuptial gifts can affect both male and female fitness, and can mediate selection on male body size. However, it is unclear how environmental variables, such as temperature and diet, affect gift size and the consequences of gift size for male and female fitness. 2We examine how temperature and rearing host affect male nuptial gift size (both total ejaculate size and the proportion of a male's mass allocated to his seminal fluids), and the relationship between gift size and female reproduction, in two populations of the seed-feeding beetle Callosobruchus maculatus. 3Males reared at lower temperature (20 °C) produced substantially larger ejaculates than males reared at higher temperatures (25, 30 and 35 °C). However, males allocated a smaller proportion of their body mass to their ejaculate at the lowest temperature compared with other temperatures. This effect of temperature on male allocation to their ejaculates mirrored the effect of temperature on female body size – male ejaculate size remained a relatively constant proportion of their mate's body mass across temperatures. 4Rearing host also affected male ejaculate size but the magnitude and direction of the host effect differed between populations. 5Rearing temperature affected the relationship between male body mass and ejaculate size. Temperature also affected the relationship between female body mass and fecundity. The relationship between male body mass and ejaculate size was significantly lower when beetles were reared on cowpea than when beetles were reared on azuki or mung. 6We found no evidence that male body size or nuptial gift size affected female fecundity in either population of C. maculatus. We thus propose that the effect of nuptial gift size on male fitness is through a reduction in female mating frequency and thus increased paternity for males producing larger nuptial gifts.
Investigation and simulation of metallic spherules from lunar soils

The microstructure and chemical composition of metallic spherules from the lunar soil were studied by optical, electron-probe, and scanning-electron-microscope techniques. Metallic spherules produced experimentally were compared to the lunar spherules with respect to structure, chemistry, and cooling rates. The structure of the lunar spherules indicates an origin by solidification of molten globules of metal. The spherules are probably produced from both lunar and meteoric sources, the major source being the metal phase present in lunar rocks and soil.
Contamination Rates of Two Blood Cultures Drawn Through the Same Intravenous Line • 385

Background: To avoid additional venipuncture, blood cultures (BC) are often drawn and set aside when placing an intravenous line (IV), wasting BC bottles. If BCs could be drawn through indwelling IVs without an increased rate of contamination, later blood draws for culture samples would provide a viable alternative.
Statistical thermodynamics study of the concentration fluctuations above the critical temperature

Abstract Concentration fluctuation in Ni-50at%Cu alloy above the critical temperature was measured by atom-probe field-ion microscope (APFIM). The concentration fluctuation was analyzed by new methods based on statistical thermodynamics and mechanics. Interaction energy between Ni and Cu was determined by the comparison between the measured thermal equilibrium frequency distributions of Ni and Gaussian distributions. Relaxation time for clustering process was also determined by the time evolution of variance.
Genomic signal processing: diagnosis and therapy

Genomics entails the study of large sets of genes with the goal of understanding collective gene function, rather than just that of individual genes. Genomic signal processing (GSP) is the engineering discipline that studies the processing of genomic signals. Since regulatory decisions within the cell utilize numerous inputs, analytical tools are necessary to model the multivariate influences on decision-making produced by complex genetic networks. Genomic signals must be processed to characterize their regulatory effects and their relationship to changes at both the genotypic and phenotypic levels. The aim of GSP is to integrate the theory and methods of signal processing with the global understanding of genomics, placing special emphasis on genomic regulation. GSP encompasses various methodologies related to signal profiles: detection, prediction, classification, control, and statistical and dynamical modeling of gene networks. In this article, we give an overview of GSP and describe how pattern recognition and network analysis are central to diagnosis and therapy for genetic diseases.
Decreasing lateral segregation in cadmium zinc telluride via ampoule tilting during vertical Bridgman growth

Abstract We employ a 2D, planar computational model to study the effects of ampoule tilting on zinc segregation during the growth of cadmium zinc telluride in a low-gradient vertical Bridgman process. Tilting the axis of the ampoule away from the direction of gravity strongly affects the structure and strength of melt convection, which, in turn, modifies heat transfer and the shape of the solid–liquid interface. While these effects have relatively little direct effect on axial segregation, the pattern of lateral segregation is significantly changed by tilting. Optimal tilt angles are found that locally flatten lateral compositional profiles and that decrease a measure of overall segregation, compared to the case of growth in a perfectly vertical ampoule.
Aldosterone Acting Through the Central Nervous System Sensitizes Angiotensin II-Induced Hypertension

Previous studies have shown that preconditioning rats with a nonpressor dose of angiotensin II (Ang II) sensitizes the pressor response produced by later treatment with a higher dose of Ang II and that Ang II and aldosterone (Aldo) can modulate each other's pressor effects through actions involving the central nervous system. The current studies tested whether Aldo can cross-sensitize the pressor actions of Ang II to enhance hypertension by employing an induction-delay-expression experimental design. Male rats were implanted for telemetered blood pressure recording. During induction, subpressor doses of either subcutaneous or intracerebroventricular Aldo were delivered for 1 week. Rats were then rested for 1 week (delay) to assure that any exogenous Aldo was metabolized. After this, Ang II was given subcutaneously for 2 weeks (expression). During induction and delay, Aldo had no sustained effect on blood pressure. However, during expression, Ang II-induced hypertension was greater in the groups receiving subcutaneous or intracerebroventricular Aldo during induction in comparison with those groups receiving vehicle. Central administration of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist blocked sensitization. Brain tissue collected at the end of delay and expression showed increased mRNA expression of several renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system components in cardiovascular-related forebrain regions of cross-sensitized rats. Cultured subfornical organ neurons preincubated with Aldo displayed greater increases in [Ca2+]i after Ang II treatment, and there was a greater Fra-like immunoreactivity present at the end of expression in cardiovascular-related forebrain structures. Taken together, these results indicate that Aldo pretreatment cross-sensitizes the development of Ang II-induced hypertension probably by mechanisms that involve the central nervous system.
The 40Ar(τ, n)42Ca reaction

Abstract The results of an investigation of the 40Ar(τ, n)42Ca reaction at 18.65 MeV incident energy are reported. The weakness of the transition to the 1.84 MeV 0+ level is in disagreement with 4p-2h descriptions of this state.
Surface wave transmission measurements across distributed surface-breaking cracks using air-coupled sensors

Near-field scattering of surface waves by a single surface-breaking crack in solid medium has been well investigated by prior researchers. However, there have been few studies for more realistic problems involving near scattering of surface waves by distributed surface-breaking cracks. One possible reason is complexity caused by the interaction of surface waves between multiple cracks. In this study, interaction of surface waves between two surface-breaking cracks with various crack spacing was investigated. The experimental study was performed on Plexiglas specimens with non-contact sensors (air-coupled sensors, and a laser vibrometer), and compared with numerical simulation results. The effects of crack depth h, spacing a, and the number of cracks N on surface wave transmission were studied. Analyses show that for the very small crack spacing (a/ho0.2), the distributed cracks can be regarded as a single surface-breaking crack. However, for a/h ranging between approximately 1 and 6, transmission coefficient of surface waves is significantly affected by interaction between cracks. The transmission coefficients have the lowest value when a/h is between 2 and 3. When a/h is large (a/h46), transmission coefficients obtained from experiments, and numerical simulations agree with the theoretical results based on non-interaction crack assumption.
SUN-SHADE ECOTYPES OF A BLUEGREEN ALGA IN A HOT SPRING1,2

SUMMARY Clone cultures of the thermophilic alga Plectonema notatum Schmidle were established from cells collected from the high and low light intensity regions of the algal mat which developed in Jerry Johnson Hot Spring, Idaho. Clones isolated from cither high, or low light intensify zones were grown at light intensities of 8000 and 400 ft-c. The existence of specialized and genetically fixed sun or shade ecotypes was evidenced, by the ability of low light intensity clones to synthesize more light harvesting chlorophyll a when grown under low light conditions than the high light clones. High light clones showed light saturation of photosynthesis at higher light intensities with higher carboxylating enzyme activities and less chlorophyll a than low light clones when both were cultured at 8000 ft-c. These clones displayed infraspecific variation along the light intensity gradient and therefore exist as a mosaic of light, intensity ecotypes.
On the reverse blocking characteristics of Schottky power diodes

An analytical model for the reverse blocking characteristics of Schottky power diodes has been obtained by incorporating the impact ionization multiplication factor into the thermionic-emission reverse leakage current with field-dependent Schottky-barrier lowering. Excellent agreement has been found between calculated curves and measured data. This model allows the accurate calculation of the reverse-leakage current of Schottky diodes at high reverse voltage. >
Mineral stress: the missing link in understanding how global climate change will affect plants in real world soils

Many natural and agricultural ecosystems are characterized by sub-optimal availability of mineral nutrients and ion toxicities. Mineral stresses are likely to have important, complex, and poorly understood interactions with global climate change variables. For example, most terrestrial vegetation is supported by weathered soils with some combination of low P, low Ca, Al toxicity, and Mn toxicity. Each of these stresses has complex, yet distinct, interactions with global change variables, making it very difficult to predict how plants in these environments will respond to future climate scenarios. Important, yet poorly understood, interactions include the effects of transpiration on root acquisition of soluble nutrients, particularly Ca and Si, the effects of altered root architecture on the acquisition of immobile nutrients, particularly P, the effects of altered root exudate production on Al toxicity and transition metal acquisition, and the interaction of photochemical processes with transition metal availability. The interaction of Mn toxicity with light intensity and other global change variables is discussed as an example of the complexity and potential importance of these relationships. Current conceptual models of plant response to multiple resource limitations are inadequate. Furthermore, substantial genetic variation exists in plant responses to mineral stress, and traits improving adaptation to one stress may incur tradeoffs for adaptation to other stresses. Root traits under quantitative genetic control are of central importance in adaptation to many mineral stresses. An integration of quantitative genetics with mechanistic and conceptual models of plant response to mineral stresses is needed if we are to understand plant response to global change in real-world soils.
A pea antisense gene for the chloroplast stromal processing peptidase yields seedling lethals in Arabidopsis: survivors show defective GFP import in vivo.

Summary The stromal processing peptidase (SPP) of chloroplasts is a metalloendopeptidase that cleaves in vitro a broad range of precursor substrates. Here, we have investigated SPP's role in vivo. Two pea cDNA antisense constructs encoding either full-length SPP (AS4.0) or its N-terminal half (AS2.2) are introduced into Arabidopsis, which contains one gene for SPP that codes for one isoform. Our analyses show that AS4.0 produces a strong mutant phenotype, with a large percentage of the plants dying as seedling lethals. Surviving plants exhibited slower shoot and root growth, and grossly aberrant leaf morphology. Green and white sectoring, and purple pigmentation was observed. In cells where chloroplasts could be identified, they were fewer in number by at least 40%, thylakoids were not fully developed, and starch granules accumulated. The phenotype produced by AS2.2 was less severe. Using green fluorescent protein (GFP) fused to a transit peptide as a reporter, we examined import into chloroplasts in vivo. In the Arabidopsis antisense lines, GFP was located primarily in the cytosol, indicating that an early step in the import pathway was impeded. In a tobacco AS14 line expressing AS2.2, GFP was located in the cytosol, on the envelope, and in the stroma. The three patterns were observed in different cells, suggesting that the import capacity of individual cells was not the same. Our in vivo studies demonstrate that SPP is essential for chloroplast biogenesis and plant survival. SPP does not act independently in the stroma, but its activity influences earlier steps in the import pathway.
Characterization of a cDNA encoding a cysteine-rich cell surface protein located in the flagellar pocket of the protozoan Trypanosoma brucei.

Abstract We have characterized a cDNA encoding a cysteine-rich, acidic integral membrane protein (CRAM) of the parasitic protozoa Trypanosoma brucei and Trypanosoma equiperdum. Unlike other membrane proteins of T. brucei, which are distributed throughout the cell surface, CRAM is concentrated in the flagellar pocket, an invagination of the cell surface of the trypanosome where endocytosis has been documented. Accordingly, CRAM also locates to vesicles located underneath the pocket, providing evidence of its internalization. CRAM has a predicted molecular mass of 130 kilodaltons and has a signal peptide, a transmembrane domain, and a 41-amino-acid cytoplasmic extension. A characteristic feature of CRAM is a large extracellular domain with a roughly 66-fold acidic, cysteine-rich 12-amino-acid repeat. CRAM is conserved among different protozoan species, including Trypanosoma cruzi, and CRAM has structural similarities with eucaryotic cell surface receptors. The most striking homology of CRAM is to the human low-density-lipoprotein receptor. We propose that CRAM functions as a cell surface receptor of different trypanosome species.
Measuring the Cost of Risk Reduction in Tax-Deferred Investing

This article uses a deterministic approach to quantitatively measure the cost of risk reduction associated with the periodic rebalancing of a tax-deferred portfolio between higher risk assets (equities) and lower-risk assets (bonds). The cost of risk is defined as the difference in annuity income at retirement between a non-rebalanced portfolio and an annually rebalanced portfolio. The author finds that the cost of risk reduction is 22-24% of annuitized retirement income. The author also shows that the gain from using a Roth-type account (with after-tax contributions and tax-free distributions) varies between 9.5% and 16.3% of retirement income compared to the level of retirement income generated by the more typical tax-deferred plan.
Sleep, illness course, and concurrent symptoms in inter-episode bipolar disorder

We investigated associations between sleep, illness course, and concurrent symptoms in 21 participants with bipolar disorder who were inter-episode. Sleep was assessed using a week-long diary. Illness course and symptoms were assessed via validated semi-structured interviews. Lower and more variable sleep efficiency and more variable total wake time were associated with more lifetime depressive episodes. Variability in falling asleep time was positively correlated with concurrent depressive symptoms. Sleep efficiency was positively correlated with concurrent manic symptoms. These findings suggest that inter-episode sleep disturbance is associated with illness course and that sleep may be an important intervention target in bipolar disorder.
The Influence of Treatment with Dual Purpose Bacterial Inoculants or Soluble Carbohydrates on the Fermentation and Aerobic Stability of Bermudagrass

Abstract This study determined the effectiveness of an inoculant (BB), molasses, or a mixture of either BB and molasses (BBM) or BB and fibrolytic enzymes (BBE) for improving the fermentation and aerobic stability of bermudagrass. A 6-wk regrowth of Tifton 85 bermudagrass was conserved in quadruplicate mini silos alone or after treatment application. The inoculant contained a mixture of P. pentosaceus 12455, 1×10 5 cfu/g of fresh forage, L. buchneri 40788, 4×10 5 cfu/g of fresh forage, and beta-glucanase, alpha-amylase, and xylanase; BBE contained similar bacteria and enzymes as BB, but greater enzyme activities. Chemical composition was quantified after 2, 4, 7, 30, and 60 d of ensiling. Microbial composition and aerobic stability were measured after 60 d of ensiling, at which point the pH of additive-treated silages was consistently lower and DM recovery was higher than in untreated silages. The BB, BBM, and molasses-treated silages had less ammonia N than untreated silages, and BB, BBM, and BBE-treated silages had less residual water-soluble carbohydrates than untreated silages. All silages had high acetic acid (47.5 g/kg DM) and low lactic acid (1.7 g/kg DM) concentrations. However, untreated and BBE-treated silages had more butyric acid and ammonia N, suggesting that a clostridial fermentation had occurred. These butyric forages were more aerobically stable (27 d) but less desirable for feeding than those ensiled with BB or molasses, which were stable for 6.9 d. In conclusion, BB and molasses treatments improved the digestibility and fermentation of bermudagrass and produced higher quality silages that were stable for 6.9 d. Mixing BB with molasses or the inoculant tested was not more beneficial than BB or molasses alone.
Techniques and issues in CACSD of linear time-varying systems

Some issues and results in computer-aided control system design (CACSD) for time-varying systems are discussed. Time-varying plants and controllers, representation of systems by models and special operators, and the existence, gain scheduling and convex optimization of a control are discussed. >
Two new species of whiteflies (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Aleyrodidae: Aleyrodinae) intercepted in quarantine on plants from Asia.

Abstract Two new species of whiteflies are described and illustrated based on specimens intercepted at US Ports-of-Entry. Aleurolobus tomkinsae Dooley & Smith-Pardo sp. nov. was intercepted on the leaves of Bergera koenigii Linnaeus (Rutaceae) from India and Sri Lanka and on Magnolia L. (Magnoliaceae) from Thailand. Asialeyrodes lateropapilliformis Dooley & Smith-Pardo sp. nov. was intercepted on the leaves of Syzygium P. Browne ex Gaertn (Myrtaceae) from Indonesia. Keys to the species of the genus Asialeyrodes Corbett 1935 and to the whitefly species found on Bergera koenigii and Syzygium are also provided.
Evaluation of Fatigue Models of Hot-Mix Asphalt Through Laboratory Testing

Many studies have investigated the fatigue resistance of hot-mix asphalt (HMA) mixtures on the basis of the material properties and structural responses. In this study, a four-point bending-beam fatigue apparatus was used to measure the fatigue life of a typical Michigan HMA mixture under various frequencies (1, 5, and 10 Hz) and temperatures (4°, 13°C, and 21.3°C). The objective of this study was to evaluate laboratory models for predicting fatigue over wide ranges of testing conditions to rank their fatigue performance on the HMA mixtures. In addition, this paper aimed to correlate the flexural stiffness (modulus) with dynamic modulus, because the dynamic moduli of HMA are key input parameters in the Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG). The correlation results showed a strong linear correlation between the flexural stiffness and dynamic modulus, with the flexural stiffness being 30% lower than the dynamic modulus. By providing a linkage between dynamic modulus and flexural stiffness, the...
Telephonic guidance of systemic thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke: safety outcome in rural hospitals.

Abstract Objectives To determine the safety of telephonic guidance for use of intravenous recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (IV rtPA) in rural hospitals. Patients and methods We performed a retrospective survey of 123 consecutive patients treated with IV rtPA for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in rural hospitals between November 2003 and September 2006 and subsequently transferred to a tertiary medical center. Selection for treatment was performed by a stroke neurologist who conducted a structured telephone interview of the requesting physician. Primary outcome measures included symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and in-hospital mortality. Results Elapsed time (ET) from stroke onset to community hospital arrival was 54 ± 30 min. ET from stroke onset to tPA bolus was 133 ± 37 min. Three patients (2.5%) had symptomatic ICH, 11 (9%) had asymptomatic ICH, 9 patients (7.5%) died. Mean length of stay was 4 ± 3 days; 47% were discharged to their homes. Mean ET from stroke onset to rtPA dosage did not differ significantly from the active treatment group of the NINDS rtPA Stroke Study. Prevalence of symptomatic ICH and mortality were lower in our population. Conclusion We conclude that telephonic guidance of rtPA treatment is safe, practical, and effective in overcoming barriers for optimal care of AIS in rural communities.
Tetrabutylammonium Fluoride (Supported)

[429-41-4] C16H36FN (MW 261.53) InChI = 1S/C16H36N.FH/c1-5-9-13-17(14-10-6-2,15-11-7-3)16-12-8-4;/h5-16H2,1-4H3;1H/q+1;/p-1 InChIKey = FPGGTKZVZWFYPV-UHFFFAOYSA-M (can be used for most fluoride-assisted reactions;1 deprotection of silyl groups;2 catalysis of Michael addition;1 alkylation;3 desilylation;4 fluorination5) Alternate Name: TBAF. Form Supplied in: on alumina; on silica gel. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: TBAF/SiO2 is nonhygroscopic and an air-stable material. Contact with skin may cause irritation.
Urea persistence in floodwater and soil used for flooded rice production

Urea is a common fertilizer in delayed-flood rice production in the United States, and its use worldwide has increased dramatically in recent decades. This study aimed to directly quantify urea-N persistence in floodwater and soil used for rice production. We conducted a set of three laboratory experiments to investigate urea-N presence in the floodwater and soil. Untreated urea was applied to dry or wet soil and flooded immediately or urea treated with the urease inhibitor N-(n-butyl)-thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT), or untreated urea was applied to dry soil and flooded after a 5-day delay. Urea-N was analysed colorimetrically (using the microplate-adapted, diacetyl monoxime method) in the floodwater, and at 2-cm intervals in soil after 10-cm long, silt-loam soil columns were flooded for 12, 24, 48 and 96 h. The only management practice that led to insignificant urea-N concentrations in floodwaters was the application of urea followed by a 5-day delay before flooding. Urea-N can persist in floodwaters for an estimated 98 and 120 h after immediately flooding dry-soil-applied or wet-soil-applied untreated urea, respectively. Urea-N concentrations in floodwaters were up to 33 times less when dry-soil-applied than wet-soil-applied. Average NBPT-treated urea-N concentrations in soil ranged up to 63 mg/kg after 24 h of flooding and were <1 mg/kg after 96 h of flooding. The 5-day delay resulted in ≤1 mg urea-N/kg soil when untreated urea was applied. Generally, the threat of N entering adjacent waterways in the form of urea is likely to be limited because of its short-term persistence (≤120 h) in rice floodwater.
Innovators, performers and the economic sectors: Technology management implications

“Data Surface Mining” was applied in a further analysis of previously published data on “The World's 50 Most Innovative Companies” and “The Best Fifty Performers” to ascertain the relative presence of the Goods and Services Sectors and the overlap of the two data sets. Earlier data sets, previously analyzed, were examined to determine the persistence of listed companies. In addition, the issues of technology management in the Services Sector, an academically neglected area, are examined.
Preparation of composite reverse osmosis membranes by plasma polymerization of organic compounds. III. Plasma polymers of acetylene/CO/H2O

Reverse osmosis characteristics of composite membranes prepared by the plasma polymerization of acetylene/CO/H2O mixtures with various ratios of components are investigated; porous film of cellulose nitrate-cellulose acetate is used as the substrate. This monomer system seems to have the following advantages: (1) A relatively short deposition time (1–2 min) is enough to produce reasonably good reverse osmosis membranes; and (2) good chemical stability of membranes can be obtained, especially in the case of chlorine resistance.
Crosstalk between Complement and Toll-Like Receptors

The complement system and toll-like receptors (TLRs) are two components of innate immunity that are critical for first-line host defense. Many pathogen-associated molecular patterns activate both complement and TLRs, and recent studies in animal models have revealed a marked synergistic interaction between the two systems. In mice deficient in a membrane complement regulator, prototypical TLR ligands such as LPS, zymosan, and polyI:C caused increased systemic complement activation, which in turn led to a profound elevation of proinflammatory cytokine biosynthesis. This phenotype required interaction between complement and TLRs because complement activation alone by cobra venom factor without TLR engagement did not lead to appreciable cytokine production. The regulatory effect of complement on TLR signaling was mediated by the anaphylatoxins C5a and C3a through a receptor-dependent mechanism and involved increased mitogen-activated protein kinase and nuclear factor κB activation. The crosstalk between complement and TLRs may also impact adaptive immunity, for example, the differentiation of T helper 17 (Th-17) cells. Given that excessive activation of either TLR or complement has been associated with inflammatory tissue injury as occurs in sepsis and autoimmune diseases, the new insight on complement and TLR crosstalk may have therapeutic implications.