cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Comparison between students’ self‐assessment, and visual and digital assessment techniques in dental anatomy wax‐up grading

Introduction Digital technology has the potential to provide a bias-free evaluation instrument for practical examination grading. E4D Compare software was designed for teaching institutions to allow comparison between scanned models prepared by students and master models prepared by instructors. The aim of this study was to determine the tolerance value for the E4D compare software (E4D Technologies LLC, Richardson, TX, USA) that provides scores comparable with faculty grades for wax-ups #23 and #19. Additionally, this study sought to assess the correlation between students' self-assessments, visual and digital grades and the reliability of the software. Methods Student wax-ups (n = 112) were uploaded into the software and then compared with faculty-generated master wax-ups. Digital grading was performed at tolerances 200-800 μm in 50 μm increments and was repeated twice. Results A tolerance of 350 μm was the closest to faculty grades for #23 and 500 μm was the closest for #19. Visual and digital grades showed moderate to high correlation for both wax-ups. Correlations between students' self-assessments and visual and digital grades improved with #19 versus #23. A near-perfect correlation was found between grades at the first and second digital grading sessions. Conclusions The tolerance that closely matches faculty grades differs according to the tooth type. The software provided consistent grades and correlated well with faculty grades. Students' self-assessment skills improved as they proceeded throughout the course. Further studies are necessary to ascertain the role of the software in improving students' self-assessment skills.
\(\mathbb {A}^1\)-connected varieties of rank one over nonclosed fields

In this paper, we prove two results regarding the arithmetics of separably $$\mathbb {A}^1$$ -connected varieties of rank one. First we prove that over a large field, there is an $$\mathbb {A}^1$$ -curve through any rational point of the boundary, if the boundary divisor is smooth and separably rationally connected. Secondly, we generalize a theorem of Hassett–Tschinkel for the Zariski density of integral points over function fields of curves.
Analysis of Correlation in Neural Responses across Multiple Subjects or Trials during Decision-making for Newsvendor Problem

To understand how correlated the human brain is across multiple subjects or multiple trials when people make risky decisions, economical decision-making based on the Newsvendor Problems (NP) were investigated with 64-channel electro-encephalography (EEG) taken from 23 human subjects. Specifically, in this work, we analyzed the EEG signals recorded while subjects were playing NP decision-making tasks. Two groups of subjects were assigned to take NP with distinctive difficulty levels for examining the difference in neural responses to the task challenge. The Correlated Components Analysis (CorrCA) method was then utilized to identify the EEG channels that maximized the correlations among multiple subjects or trials. Both Inter-Subject Correlation (ISC) and Inter-Trial Correlation (ITC) results revealed an apparent modulation of the attentional state of subjects across three test phases (decision-making, feedback, and recovery) and two distinct task challenges. The neural correlation across multiple subjects or multiple trials increased significantly during the decision-making phase for more challenging tasks, in which subjects needed to be more attentive. Such observations confirm the modulation of the engagement state on the correlations of the neural activity across multiple subjects or repeated trials. Moreover, the alpha-band power results for different decision-making phases affirmed that the difficulty of different test phases modulates subjects’ engagement.
Small-Satellite Attitude Control Using Piecewise-Sinusoidal Controls in the Presence of Disturbance Torques

This paper addresses small-satellite attitude control in the presence of external disturbance torques using internal rotating-mass actuators. Unlike reaction wheels, these rotating-mass actuators cannot perform complete rotations. Instead, their stroke is limited to $a$ radians of total rotation. We present a setpoint tracking control algorithm that uses feedback of the satellite's attitude and angular velocity to determine the control signals, which are the angles of the rotating-mass actuators relative to the satellite's body. This feedback algorithm yields control signals that are continuous but only piecewise-continuously differentiable sinusoids. We analyze the stability and performance of the closed-loop system for the case where no external torque is acting on the satellite. We present three numerical simulations to demonstrate the setpoint tracking attitude controller: i) a satellite in low-Earth orbit neglecting aerodynamic moment; ii) a satellite in low-Earth orbit including aerodynamic moment; and iii) a satellite on an air-bearing on Earth, which results in a moment due to gravity.
Structure and Relatives of the Na + /K + -ATPase

Previous chapters described how a physiological process, the Na+/K+ pump, became identified with a biochemical entity, the Na+/K+-ATPase, an enzyme consisting of α-and β-subunits and coupling ATP hydrolysis to Na+ and K+ transport. Unanswered, however, were essential questions: What is the chemical identity of the subunits and what is the chemical mechanism of hydrolysis and transport? Partial answers to the first question will be described next; satisfactory answers to the second were merely being approached as the 1980s closed. But a further realization emerged that was unanticipated initially. The Na+/K+-ATPase belongs to a family of transport ATPases that are related structurally and functionally and are present across the biological realm, from bacteria and fungi to plants and animals.
Preservation of Honeybee Spermatozoa in Liquid Nitrogen

SummaryHoneybee (Apis mellifera) semen was stored for 359 days at −196°C in liquid nitrogen. Eleven semen diluents were tested. Use of a mixture of 40% semen and 60% Kiev diluent containing 10% dimethylsulphoxide, combined with freezing of samples at the rate of 3–4°/min produced relatively good post-thaw sperm motility. Fifteen queens were inseminated instrumentally with semen stored for 305–359 days. Thirteen survived and produced a brood area of 345 ± 60 cm2, of which 47·3 ± 6·42% were worker progeny from the frozen spermatozoa. Four queens were superseded by their daughters which mated naturally and built up strong colonies.
Introduction: Anywhere but Kansas

and poisons, of plots described in disappearing ink, of odors distressful to the weak. I set up a small lab in the basement and there I performed my experiments. "Performed" was the right word. "Experiment" was not. For I didn't follow the booklet where it led, or listen to its lectures. I slopped about, blending yellow with white and obtaining brown, mixing crystals with powders and getting dust, combining liquids with solids and making mud.
Hierarchical Conversation Structure Prediction in Multi-Party Chat

Conversational practices do not occur at a single unit of analysis. To understand the interplay between social positioning, information sharing, and rhetorical strategy in language, various granularities are necessary. In this work we present a machine learning model for multi-party chat which predicts conversation structure across differing units of analysis. First, we mark sentence-level behavior using an information sharing annotation scheme. By taking advantage of Integer Linear Programming and a sociolinguistic framework, we enforce structural relationships between sentence-level annotations and sequences of interaction. Then, we show that clustering these sequences can effectively disentangle the threads of conversation. This model is highly accurate, performing near human accuracy, and performs analysis on-line, opening the door to real-time analysis of the discourse of conversation.
On Integer Programming Approaches for Morphological Template Decomposition Problems in Computer Vision

In morphological image processing and analysis, a template or structuringelement is applied to an image. Often savings in computation time and abetter fit to the given computer architecture can be achieved by using thetechnique of template decomposition. Researchers have written a multitude ofpapers on finding such decompositions for special classes of templates.Justifying recent integer programming approaches to the morphologicaltemplate decomposition problem in its general form, this paper proves theNP-completeness of this problem.
Novel Bonner Sphere Spectrometer Response Functions Using MCNP6

Bonner Sphere Spectrometer response functions were computed using MCNP6 and compared to response functions calculated by Mares and Schraube (1994) using MCNP4. The simulated environment exposed a LiI(Eu) scintillator crystal to neutrons of discrete energy levels from thermal through 25 MeV, with energy resolution identical to that documented by Mares and Schraube. The shapes of the response functions were found to be in excellent agreement with previous data, but the MCNP6-calculated functions differed consistently from the Mares and Schraube data by a factor of two, which is possibly due to ambiguity within their published methodology. Regardless, a comparison of the response functions calculated from MCNP6 and MCNP4 were assessed as $ > 99\% $ significant using a chi-squared test with 25 degrees of freedom.
Whole Body Edema and Mineralized Fat Necrosis in an Aquatic Caecilian, Typhlonectes sp.

ABSTRACT A 13 year old male aquatic caecilian, Typhlonectes sp., presented with whole body swelling and a radiodense coelomic mass was identified radiographically. The mass was found to be free-floating during surgical exploration, was removed, and histologically determined to be mineralized fat necrosis. The animal did not recover from anesthesia and necropsy findings included excessive free coelomic fluid, a severely dilated venous structure, and a dermatopathy of unknown etiology. The animal's death was attributed to complications of anesthesia and circulatory compromise. Though no specific etiology was found, the whole body edema was attributed to disruption of normal osmoregulation due to the dermatopathy. Mineralized fat necrosis should be considered in cases of radiodense coelomic masses in caecilians.
Wireless, remotely powered telemetry in 0.25 /spl mu/m CMOS

This new architecture for wireless power and data telemetry recovers power and system clock from a weak incident RF signal. An efficient RF-DC converter rectifies and multiplies the received signal, generating a practical DC voltage, far higher than the incident RF signal amplitude, increasing the range between the base station and the transponder. An injection locked LC oscillator recovers the system clock from the incident signal. Super-harmonic or sub-harmonic locking facilitates the separation of the incident and telemetry frequency without the need for a PLL. Experimental data from a 900 MHz transponder and a remotely powered 2.3 GHz wireless temperature sensor are presented. Both prototypes, implemented in 0.25 /spl mu/m CMOS, occupy less that 1 mm/sup 2/.
Maria Susanna Cummins e Rosalía de Castro

The present article is a comparative study of The Lamplighter (1854), by the North American author Maria Susanna Cummins, and La hija del mar (1859) by the Galician author Rosalia de Castro, which questions the reception of the so-called sentimental literature. Parallels are established not only between the authors, but also between the protagonists of the novels, and special attention is paid to gender conditions related to social class, professional possibilities for the women of their time and for the way in which the idea of the home is conceptualized in relation to that of the nation.
Solid and liquid heat capacities of n-alkyl para-aminobenzoates near the melting point.

The expression that relates the ideal mole fraction solubility of a crystalline compound to physico-chemical properties of the compound includes a term involving the difference in the heat capacities of the solid and liquid forms of the solute, ΔC P. There are two alternate conventions which are employed to eliminate this term. The first assumes that the term involving ΔC P, or ΔC P itself, is zero. The alternate assumption assigns the value of the entropy of fusion to the differential heat capacity. The relative validity of these two assumptions was evaluated using the straight-chain alkyl para-aminobenzoates as test compounds. The heat capacities of the solid and liquid forms of each of the para-aminobenzoates, near the respective melting point, were determined by differential scanning calorimetry. The data lead one to conclude that the assumption that the differential heat capacity is not usually negligible and is better approximated by the entropy of fusion.
Über Biogeochemische Umsetzungen im Frühstadium der Diagenese

Publisher Summary Organic substances in sea waters and recent marine sediments offshore California are significantly altered during the early stages of diagenesis. Kind and distribution pattern of biochemical materials such as amino acids, sugars, phenols, indoles, and humic acids are indicative of certain reaction mechanisms going on during transportation, deposition, and within recent sediments. They further permit some statements as to the principal source of the organic matter in terms of marine versus continental.
Attributed image matching using a minimum representation size criterion

The authors describe a novel approach to image matching which utilizes the minimal representation criterion as a means to obtain robust matching performance, even when image data are extremely noisy. They describe the application of this approach to the problem of matching noisy gray-level images to attributed models. Using the minimum representation criterion, the match between gray-level image features and an attributed graph model incorporates a representation size measure for the modeled points, the data residuals, and the unmodeled points. This structural representation identifies correspondence between a subset of data points and a subset of model points in a manner which minimizes the complexity of the resulting model. The proposed minimum representation matching algorithm is polynomial in complexity, and exhibits robust matching performance on examples where less than 30% of the features are reliable. The minimum representation principle is extensible to related problems using three-dimensional models and multisensor data matching. >
Synthesis and characterization of a novel gadolinium-based contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging of myelination

Myelin is a membrane system that fosters nervous impulse conduction in the vertebrate nervous system. Myelin sheath disruption is a common characteristic of several neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and various leukodystrophies. To date, the diagnosis of MS is obtained using a set of criteria in which MRI observations play a central role. However, because of the lack of specificity for myelin integrity, the use of MRI as the primary diagnostic tool has not yet been accepted. In order to improve MR specificity, we began developing MR probes targeted toward myelin. In this work we describe a new myelin-targeted MR contrast agent, Gd-DODAS, based on a stilbene binding moiety and demonstrate its ability to specifically bind to myelin in vitro and in vivo. We also present evidence that Gd-DODAS generates MR contrast in vivo in T1-weighed images and in T1 maps that correlates to the myelin content.
Development and Characterization of SSR Markers and Their Use to Assess Genetic Relationships among Alfalfa Germplasms

Simple sequence repeat (SSR), or microsatellite markers, are codominant, abundant and hypervariable molecular markers from eukaryotic genomes that are being widely used in genetic mapping, phylogenetic studies, and marker-assisted selection. Currently, the number of SSR markers available from alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) genomic libraries is limited. This study was conducted to identify additional SSR markers in the alfalfa genome and to evaluate their ability to separate the nine historically recognized progenitors of North American cultivated alfalfa (African, Chilean, Falcata, Flemish, Indian, Ladak, Peruvian, Turkistan, and Varia), as well as seven additional accessions of M. sativa ssp. sativa, falcata, and coerulea and the model legume M. truncatula. Genomic DNA from the autotetraploid alfalfa germplasm W10 was used to develop 81 primer pairs, which amplified SSRs containing AC, AT, CT, CTT, GAT, and GGT motifs. The majority (96%) of the primer pairs were functional and 61 (78.2%) detected 2 to 11 polymorphic fragments among the accessions. A dendrogram was constructed using cluster analysis from these data, representing three main clusters: (i) diploid ssp. falcata; (ii) M. truncatula; and (iii) all remaining entries. Additional separation of some accessions [M. truncatula ('Jemalong'), Ladak ('Ladak'), Fall dormancy 11 (UC-1465), Indian (Sirsa Type 9), Flemish ('Dupuit'), Peruvian ('Hairy Peruvian'), and African 2 ('Moapa')] was obtained through multiple correspondence analysis. These genomic alfalfa SSRs have excellent utility for polymorphic assessment with potential application for phylogenetic and genetic mapping studies of alfalfa.
Optimum Quantization for Local Decision Based on Independent Samples

Abstract The problem of designing quantizers for use in decision-making systems is considered. Applying the theory of local tests, general criteria are derived for the optimal selection of quantizer parameters for the large-sample-size case. These criteria agree with previously established results based on optimization in terms of distance measures and are shown also to lead to that quantizer-decision system which is most efficient asymptotically. To illustrate the design procedure, several applications to signal detection are discussed.
Diminished Short-Term Heart Rate Variability Predicts Inducible Ventricular Tachycardia

Purpose The purpose of this study is to determine whether short-term heart rate variability (HRV) can be used successfully to predict inducible ventricular tachycardia (VT). Methods A high-speed (300 mm/s) electrocardiographic recording was obtained in 32 patients in the supine position prior to programmed ventricular stimulation. Beat-to-beat RR intervals (in milliseconds) were derived from an 11-beat strip (10 RR intervals). Logistic regression was used to study the relationship between several variables and a dichotomous dependent variable (inducible, clinical, or electrocardiographic evidence of VT). Results Of 32 patients, 12 had inducible VT (inducible VT group) and 20 had no clinical or electrocardiographic evidence of VT (control group). Mean short-term HRV values were significantly lower in those with inducible VT than in the control group in all patients (25±15 ms, n=12 vs 67±22 ms, n=20; p Conclusion Short-term HRV is significantly lower in subjects with inducible VT than in those without clinical or electrocardiographic evidence of VT. The probability of developing sudden death increases substantially when short-term HRV decreases below 50 ms.
Skill assessment in software projects by grey possibility degree

It is well known that the development of large software systems can be very challenging. Research shows that inadequate planning and management of human resources can sometimes lead to catastrophic failures in building these systems. Careful planning requires the consideration of the relationships between skills developed by engineers considered for these systems and those required in building high-quality software systems. However, there is a noticeable absence of reliable methodologies for assessing these relationships. This paper presents a method that evaluates skill relationships based on a set of task and resource specific skill parameters. These parameters are used as measures in a multi-attribute decision problem to evaluate the skills of each engineer candidate. The problem is solved by using the concept of possibility degree for ranking two grey numbers in grey systems theory. A case study is presented to show how this method can be applied in these problems.
Families with limited English proficiency receive less information and support in interpreted intensive care unit family conferences.

Objective Family communication is important for delivering high quality end-of-life care in the ICU, yet little research has been conducted to describe and evaluate clinician-family communication with non-English speaking family members. We assessed clinician-family communication during ICU family conferences involving interpreters and compared it to conferences without interpreters.
On a confidence interval of given length for the parameter of the binomial and the Poisson distributions

The length of the confidence interval which is constructed by one stage sampling is a random variable, whereas we can construct a confidence interval of given length and of given confidence coefficient by a sequential sampling. Of cource, the sample size required by this method is a random variable. This type of problem has already been discussed in several papers when the population is normal (see references [2], [3], [4]). In this paper we shall discuss this subject in the binomial and Poisson cases.
Structure in Optical Absorption of Barium Oxide Films

Measurements of the optical absorption of BaO films at temperatures between 15\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}K and 370\ifmmode^\circ\else\textdegree\fi{}C are reported. Four absorption peaks between 3.8 ev and 4.5 ev are found for measurements at liquid nitrogen temperature or below. At least the two strongest peaks are thought to be caused by exciton absorption. The sharpness of the structure is found to depend upon substrate temperature during evaporation and upon the temperature at which the optical measurements are made.
Cognitive–Behavior Therapy for Late-Life Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Primary Care: Preliminary Findings

OBJECTIVE The authors present data from a pilot research program initiated to develop, refine, and test the outcomes of CBT-GAD/PC, a version of cognitive–behavior therapy (CBT) that targets the needs of older adults with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in primary care (PC). METHODS The study involved a small, randomized clinical trial comparing the impact of CBT-GAD/PC to usual care (UC) in a sample of 12 older medical patients with GAD. RESULTS Outcome data suggested significant improvements in worry and depression after CBT-GAD/PC, relative to UC. CONCLUSION Authors discuss results in terms of the "real-world" applicability of this treatment for late-life GAD, and present implications for future research.
Distinguishing seawater from geologic brine in saline coastal groundwater using radium-226; an example from the Sabkha of the UAE

article Sabkhat(Salt flats)are common geographic featuresof low-lyingmarinecoastalareas thatdevelopunder hyper- aridclimaticconditions.Theyare characterizedby thepresenceof highlyconcentratedsalinesolutions and evap- oritic minerals, and have been cited in the geologic literature as present-day representations of hyper-arid regional paleohydrogeology, paleoclimatology, coastal processes, and sedimentation in the geologic record. It is therefore important that a correct understanding of the origin and development of these features be achieved. Knowledge of the source of solutes is an important first step in understanding these features. Historically, two theories have been advanced as to the main source of solutes in sabkha brines: an early concept entailing seawa- ter as the obvious source, and a more recent and dynamic theory involving ascending geologic brine forced upward into the base of the sabkha by a regional hydraulic gradient in the underlying formations. Ra-226 coulduniquely distinguish betweenthese sourcesunder certain circumstances,asitistypically present atelevat- ed activity of hundreds to thousands of Bq/m 3 (Becquerels per cubic meter) in subsurface formation brines; at exceedingly low activities in open ocean and coastal water; and not significantly supplied to water from recently formed marine sedimentary framework material. The coastal marine sabkha of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi was used to test this hypothesis. The distribution of Ra-226 in 70 samples of sabkha brine (mean: 700 Bq/m 3 ), 7 sam- ples of underlying deeper formation brine (mean: 3416 Bq/m 3
Genetic analysis of cross fertility between two self-sterile strains of Glomerella graminicola.

The ascomycete Glomerella cingulata has an unusual and complex mating system which is con- trolled by multiple, multiallelic loci. Cross fertility be- tween different isolates occurs via complementation of mutated fertility genes, a process known as unbal- anced heterothallism. We have examined the herita-
Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and leukaemic cells: secretion and response

Leukaemic cells from various types (ALL-O, ALL-proB, ALL-common [cALL], ALL-T) of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) and non-lymphoblastic leukaemia (ANLL) were studied for their ability to produce tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF). The role of exogenous and endogenous TNF in proliferation in vitro of leukaemic cells was also assessed. Leukaemic cells from different types of acute leukaemia were found to show major differences in their ability to proliferate in vitro. High production of TNF was observed mainly in ALL-T and ANLL but in ALL-T it was not associated with the proliferation rate of leukaemic cells. In most instances no bioactive TNF was detected. The variable response of leukaemic cells (inhibition or stimulation of proliferation) to exogenous human recombinant (rTNF) was assessed. The role of endogenous TNF as a growth factor or agent associated with resistance to exogenous TNF was excluded as judged by a lack of effect of the TNF synthesis inhibitor pentoxifylline (PTX) and of anti-TNF antibody and PTX/rTNF. There was no association of the effect of rTNF on proliferation of leukaemic cells with their immunophenotype, spontaneous release of TNF or proliferation rate. Hence, this study does not provide evidence for the role of TNF as a growth factor for leukaemic cells or for its role in the inhibition of proliferation of leukaemic cells.
Progress towards and barriers to implementation of a risk framework for US federal wildland fire policy and decision making

In this paper we review progress towards the implementation of a risk management framework for US federal wildland fire policy and operations. We first describe new developments in wildfire simulation technology that catalyzed the development of risk-based decision support systems for strategic wildfire management. These systems include new analytical methods to measure wildfire risk to human and ecological values and to inform fuel treatment investment strategies at national, regional, and local scales. Application of the risk management framework to support wildfire incidents has been dramatically advanced with the Wildland Fire Decision Support System and allowed policy modifications that encourage management of incidents for multiple objectives. The new wildfire risk management decision support systems we discuss provide Federal agencies in the US the ability to integrate risk-informed approaches to a wide range of wildfire management responsibilities and decisions. While much progress has been made, there remain several barriers that need to be addressed to fully integrate risk science into current wildfire management practices. We conclude by identifying five primary issues that if properly addressed could help public land management better realize the opportunities and potential payoffs from fully adopting a risk management paradigm.
Theory of Shapiro steps in Josephson-junction arrays and their topology

A simple theory of Shapiro steps in a Josephson-junction (JJ) array immersed in a magnetic field is presented. It is argued that the system can be regarded as the superposition of a JJ array in zero field and a vortex lattice generated by the magnetic field. The subsystems obey the resistively-shunted-junction equations of motion, and interference effects result in steps at 1/{ital q},2/{ital q},. . . for a filling factor {ital p}/{ital q}. The exactness of the steps is shown to result from the topological quantization of the order parameter for dissipative systems.
Late Quaternary folding of coral reef terraces, Barbados

Uplifted late Ouaternary coral reefs on the island of Barbados record folding of the emergent crest of the Lesser Antilles accretionary prism (Barbados Ridge complex) since ca. 1 Ma. Three northeast striking folds are defined by systematic changes in altitudes in the crest of First High Cliff, a mostly constructional reef terrace about 125 ka, and Second High Cliff, a partially erosional reef terrace about 500 ka. The folds have wavelengths of 6 to 8 km and fold axes extend about 10 km. The largest anticline rises to the northeast, where it has been breached by erosion exposing highly deformed Eocene to lower Miocene rocks of the Scotland District. Uplift rates based on heights of the last interglacial First High Cliff range from 0.07 to 0.44 mm/yr. Quaternary folding on Barbados indicates that the crest of the accretionary prism continues to be an active fold belt undergoing northwestsoutheast shortening.
Smoothing spline primordial power spectrum reconstruction

We reconstruct the shape of the primordial power spectrum (PPS) using a smoothing spline. Our adapted smoothing spline technique provides a complementary method to existing efforts to search for smooth features in the PPS, such as a running spectral index. With this technique we find no significant indication with Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe first-year data that the PPS deviates from a Harrison-Zeldovich spectrum and no evidence for loss of power on large scales. We also examine the effect on the cosmological parameters of the additional PPS freedom. Smooth variations in the PPS are not significantly degenerate with other cosmological parameters, but the spline reconstruction greatly increases the errors on the optical depth and baryon fraction.
Pressure dependence of the conductivity and magnetoconductance in oriented iodine-doped polyacetylene.

The temperature dependences of conductivity and magnetoconductance (MC) have been measured, both parallel and perpendicular to the chain axis, in oriented polyacetylene films doped with iodine. The evolution of anisotropy in conductivity as a function of doping time has been studied. Hydrostatic pressure increases the conductivity for pressures up to 4 kbar; at higher pressure the conductivity gradually decreases. The reduced activation-energy function [W=-T[d(ln\ensuremath{\rho})/dT] is temperature independent in the intermediate temperature region (T\ensuremath{\approxeq}180--60 K) suggesting that the material is just on the metallic side of the critical regime of the disorder-induced metal-insulator transition. However, at 8 kbar, W(T) exhibits a positive temperature coefficient from 180 to 1.2 K, implying that the system is more metallic due to enhanced interchain transport. The ${\mathit{T}}^{1/2}$ dependence of conductivity and the enhanced negative MC, at very low temperatures, indicates that the role of electron-electron interactions is significant. MC measurements have been carried out in all the five different combinations of current with respect to the chain axis and field directions. The sign of MC is positive (negative) when the field is perpendicular (parallel) to the chain axis. The anisotropy in MC is attributed to the anisotropic diffusion coefficient. This is shown by the enhanced positive contribution to the MC at 8 kbar, when the field (current) is parallel (parallel) to the chain axis.At 1.2 K, when both the magnetic field and current are perpendicular to the chain axis, the field-induced crossover from positive to negative MC shows the subtle interplay of weak localization and electron-electron interaction contributions to MC. The inelastic scattering lengths, at 1.2 K, in parallel and perpendicular directions to the chain axis are found to be 1163 and 210 \AA{}, respectively. The ${\mathit{T}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}3/4}$ dependence of the inelastic scattering length at low temperatures is consistent with the ${\mathit{T}}^{3/4}$ dependence of conductivity. This indicates that the inelastic electron-electron scattering known to be of importance in disordered metals is the dominant scattering mechanism in iodine-doped oriented polyacetylene.
Anion exchange studies—XXX a number of elements in ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid solutions☆

Adsorbabilities of a number of metals (Be, Ca, Sr, Ba, Ra, Sc, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni and Zn) in EDTA solutions were studied as a function of EDTA concentration, supporting electrolyte concentration (NH4Cl) and pH. Applicability of the results to separations is discussed and illustrations of several separations are given. Adsorbability of EDTA by the chloride form of the exchanger was determined as a function of loading. The selectivity of the exchanger for EDTA is sufficiently low to permit separations in EDTA solutions with the resin remaining substantially in the chloride form. From measurement of distribution coefficients of metals as a function of EDTA and chloride concentration, the charges of a number of EDTA complexes was verified. Adsorbabilities as a function of pH at constant EDTA and supporting electrolyte concentrations were consistent with published constants for metal-EDTA equilibria. The stability constant for the EDTA complex of Ra(II) was estimated from the anion exchange data to be 107·4.
Kainic acid-induced decrease in hippocampal corticosteroid receptors.

Abstract: The potential role of excitatory amino acids in the regulation of brain corticosteroid receptors was examined using systemic administration of kainic acid. Administration of kainic acid (5, 10, and 15 mg/kg) to 24-h adrenalectomized rats that were killed 3 h later produced large, dose-related decreases in glucocorticoid receptors (GR) in hippocampus (23–63%), frontal cortex (22–76%), and striatum (41–49%). Kainic acid did not decrease hypothalamic GR. Hippocampal mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) were also markedly decreased (50–71%) by kainic acid. Significant decreases in corticosteroid receptors could be detected as soon as 1 h after kainic acid (10 mg/kg) administration. Decreases in hippocampal, cortical, and hypothalamic GR as well as hippocampal MR were observed 24 h after administration of kainic acid (10 mg/kg) to adrenalectomized rats. Kainic acid (10 mg/kg) also significantly decreased hippocampal GR and MR as well as GR in the other three brain regions when administered to adrenal-intact rats that were subsequently adrenalectomized and killed 48 h after drug administration. The kainic acid–induced decreases in hippocampal GR and MR binding were due to decreases in the maximum number of binding sites (Bmax) with no change in the apparent affinity (KD). Kainic acid when added in vitro did not displace the GR and MR radioligands from their respective receptors. These studies demonstrate that excitatory amino acids play a prominent role in the regulation of hippocampal corticosteroid receptors. In addition, the data indicate that noncorticosterone factors are involved in corticosteroid receptor plasticity.
Endocrine disruptive actions of inhaled benzo(a)pyrene on ovarian function and fetal survival in fisher F-344 adult rats.

Abstract This study evaluated the effect of inhaled BaP on female reproductive function. Rats were exposed to 50, or 75 or 100 μg BaP/m 3 , 4 h a day for 14 days via inhalation. Plasma E 2 , P 4 , LH and FSH concentrations were determined. Ovarian BaP metabolism and aryl hydrocarbon hydrolase (AHH) activity at proestrus were determined and fertility evaluations were conducted. Ovulation rate and number of pups/litter were reduced in rats exposed to 100 μg BaP/m 3 compared with other treatment and control groups. Plasma concentrations of E 2 , and LH were significantly reduced at proestrus in BaP-exposed versus those of controls whereas those of P 4 were significantly reduced at diestrus I. The activity of AHH in ovarian and liver tissues and concentrations of BaP 7,8-diol and BaP 3,6-dione metabolites increased in an exposure concentration-dependent manner. These data suggest that exposure of rats to BaP prior to mating contributes to reduced ovarian function and fetal survival.
Caspase-independent cytochrome c release is a sensitive measure of low-level apoptosis in cell culture models.

Summary Age-associated loss of tissue function and several chronic diseases may derive in part from the cumulative effects of subtle changes in the level of apoptotic cell death. Because apoptosis is rapid and undetectable once complete, small changes in its incidence are difficult to detect, even in well-controlled cell cultures. We describe a new apoptosis assay that provides greater sensitivity than conventional assays because it measures the accumulation of apoptotic cells. Human and mouse fibroblasts and human mammary epithelial cells that initiated apoptosis were preserved for 3 days by inhibiting caspase activity using the chemical inhibitor Q-VD-OPH (QVD). Cells suspended in the process of apoptosis were scored by immunostaining for cytochrome c, which redistributed from mitochondria in healthy cells to the cytoplasm in dying cells. This caspase-independent cytochrome c release (CICR) assay was more sensitive than several conventional assays when apoptosis was induced by actinomycin D, and detected cumulative background levels of apoptosis over a 3-day interval. Using this assay, we show that normal fibroblasts undergo very little apoptosis upon X-irradiation, indicating dominance of the senescence response in this cell type. Further, apoptosis increased subtly but measurably when human mammary epithelial and skin fibroblast cells entered crisis, indicating that cell death during crisis is largely non-apoptotic.
A microcomputer application to metabolic workload estimation

Abstract The measurement or estimation of metabolic workload is an essential base for the evaluation of activities to make work assignment and the development of work-rest schedules and work methods. This paper describes a microcomputer program which performs systematic workload estimation based on the input descriptions of activity.
Degradation Modeling of 2024 Aluminum Alloy During Corrosion Process

Corrosion is one of the most damaging mechanisms in aluminum alloys used in aerospace engineering structures. In this article, the degradation behavior of AA 2024-T3 as a function of time under corrosive conditions is studied through experiments and modeling. Corrosion experiments were conducted on AA 2024-T3 specimens under controlled electrochemical conditions. The chemical element alloy map was investigated through EDS technique for evaluation purposes. Based on the experimental data, an analytical model is developed relating the material loss to the degradation during the corrosion process. The analytical model uses genetic algorithms (GAs) to map the relationship through optimization. The results obtained from GAs were compared with a standard non-linear regression model. The results obtained indicate that a quadratic relationship exists in time between the material loss due to corrosion and the degradation behavior of the alloy. Based on the good results obtained, the present approach of degradation modeling can be extended to other metals.
Family survivorship and quality of life following a cancer diagnosis.

The objectives of this study were: (a) to examine the quality of life of the family as a unit during the long-term survivor phase of illness and (b) to test a family model of factors that may influence family quality of life. The family survivorship model, which includes illness survival stressors (family stressors, fear of recurrence, and patient somatic concerns), resources (family hardiness and family social support), appraisal (family meaning of the illness), and the outcome, family quality of life, was used to guide this exploratory cross-sectional study. A random, stratified sample of 123 families (N = 246 individuals) was interviewed 1-5 years after treatment ended. The model explained 63% of the variance in family quality of life, with the strongest predictors being concurrent family stressors, family social support, family member fear of recurrence, family meaning of the illness, and patient employment status. The study findings suggest the importance of addressing cancer-related stressors, family resources, and family meaning as key factors related to family quality of life.
Microbial enzyme stoichiometry and nutrient limitation in US streams and rivers

We analyzed water and sediment chemistry, catchment land cover, and microbial dehydrogenase (DHA) and extracellular enzymes activities (EEA) related to microbial C, N, P, and S acquisition in more than 2100 1st–10th order streams. The streams and their catchments represented gradients in water and sediment chemistry (C, N, P, S) and land cover (% forest, % wetland, % row crop agriculture) against which to compare biofilm and sediment DHA and EEA, and to estimate the extent of nutrient limitation in US streams and rivers. Water chemistry was significantly correlated with catchment land cover. Biofilm and sediment DHA and EEA were inversely correlated with water and sediment chemistry, and positively correlated with % forest. Canonical correlation analysis described two environmental gradients to which biofilm and sediment DHA and EEA were significantly correlated. Structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed a significant causal relationship between catchment land cover, chemistry, and biofilm and sediment EEA and DHA. Biofilm and sediment EEA was dominated by phenol oxidase and peroxidase, enzymes related to the degradation of recalcitrant C. However, the hydrolytic enzymes (those which hydrolyze glycoside, peptide, and ester bonds to release C, N, P, S) were better correlated with the chemical variables. This was reflected in the relative apportionment of enzyme activity toward C, N, P, and S acquisition. We compared molar stoichiometry of C, N, and P in water and sediment with biofilm and sediment ratios of GLYC:PEPT:PHOS to gauge how each measure of nutrient limitation compares with the others. Overall, water chemistry suggested many biofilms were P-limited and this was corroborated by allocation of microbial phosphatase activity. Sediments were found to be predominantly C and N-limited, and this was reflected in sediment EEA. We used these measures of nutrient limitation to assess the extent of N or P-limitation in streams and rivers of the conterminous United States and for nine ecoregions of interest to the US EPA's National Rivers and Streams Assessment (NRSA). Enzymatic stoichiometry provides a biological perspective on the influence of catchment scale anthropogenic disturbances resulting in an imbalance of nutrients being transported from those catchments. Enzyme activities represent the interface between microbial demands for, and environmental supplies of, C, N, and P, effectively linking ecological stoichiometric theory with the concept of threshold elemental ratios. The relative activities of the functional classes of extracellular enzymes provide both a measure of nutrient availability and ecosystem metabolism that may be used to assess large-scale phenomena such as regional impacts of climate change or anthropogenic disturbances.
Estrogen downregulates the proximal tubule type IIa sodium phosphate cotransporter causing phosphate wasting and hypophosphatemia

Estrogen treatment causes significant hypophosphatemia in patients. To determine the mechanisms responsible for this effect, we injected ovariectomized rats with either 17β-estradiol or vehicle for three days. Significant renal phosphate wasting and hypophosphatemia occurred in estrogen-treated rats despite a decrease in their food intake. The mRNA and protein levels of the renal proximal tubule sodium phosphate cotransporter (NaPi-IIa) were significantly decreased in estradiol-treated ad-libitum or pair-fed groups. Estrogen did not affect NaPi-III or NaPi-IIc expression. In ovariectomized and parathyroidectomized rats, 17β-estradiol caused a significant decrease in NaPi-IIa mRNA and protein expression compared to vehicle. Estrogen receptor alpha isoform blocker significantly blunted the anorexic effect of 17β-estradiol but did not affect the downregulation of NaPi-IIa. Our studies show that renal phosphate wasting and hypophosphatemia induced by estrogen are secondary to downregulation of NaPi-IIa in the proximal tubule. These effects are independent of food intake or parathyroid hormone levels and likely not mediated through the activation of estrogen receptor alpha subtype.
What causes the dips in backward pion-nucleon scattering?

Using a Regge pole and absorptive cut model with\({\mathcal{N}}_\alpha \) and Δδ exchange, we find it very difficult to explain the dip structure in pion-nucleon backward scattering in terms of wrong-signature non-sense zeros.
El dolor crónico como comportamiento aprendido

Pain not only has a physiological component, but can also be considered from a behavioural perspectiue in which it is understood as a net of different kinds of behaviour (observable and potentially measurable actions) which can be conditioned, modqied and shaped by the environment. The latter plays an important role especially when pain becomes chronic and the factor "passing of time" alters the patient 'S life, who creates a series of strategies for obtaining additional help from the health system. This helps to zitcrease the problem rather than to eliminate it. For this reason, the role of the family which has to change its conduct and attitude, is essential in the elimination of pain, from the behavioural point of view.
Pharmacodynamics of moxifloxacin against a high inoculum of Escherichia coli in an in vitro infection model

OBJECTIVES Escherichia coli is the leading bacterial species implicated in intra-abdominal infections. In these infections a high bacterial burden with pre-existing resistant mutants are likely to be encountered and resistance could be amplified with suboptimal dosing. Our objective was to investigate the pharmacodynamics of moxifloxacin against a high inoculum of E. coli using an in vitro hollow fibre infection model (HFIM). METHODS Three wild-type strains of E. coli (ATCC 25922, MG1655 and EC28044) were studied by exposing approximately 2 x 10(8) cfu/mL (20 mL) to escalating dosing regimens of moxifloxacin (ranging from 30 to 400 mg, once daily). Serial samples were obtained from HFIM over 120 h to enumerate the total and resistant subpopulation. Quinolone resistance-determining regions of gyrA and parC of resistant isolates were sequenced to confirm the mechanism of resistance. RESULTS The pre-exposure MIC of the three wild-type strains was 0.0625 mg/L. Simulated moxifloxacin concentration profiles in HFIM were satisfactory (r(2) >or= 0.94). Placebo experiments revealed natural mutants, but no resistance amplification. Regrowth and resistance amplification was observed between 30 mg/day (AUC/MIC = 47) and 80 mg/day dose (AUC/MIC = 117). Sustained bacterial suppression was achieved at >or=120 mg/day dose (AUC/MIC = 180). Point mutations in gyrA (D87G or S83L) were detected in resistant isolates. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that suboptimal dosing may facilitate resistance amplification in a high inoculum of E. coli. The clinical dose of moxifloxacin (400 mg/day) was adequate to suppress resistance development in three wild-type strains. Clinical relevance of these findings warrants further in vivo investigation.
Low temperature AlN growth by MBE and its application in HEMTs

Abstract Low temperature growth of AlN from 470 °C down to room temperature has been studied by RF-plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PAMBE). Partially amorphous AlN was achieved at growth temperatures below 250 °C. We demonstrate the application of the low temperature (LT-) AlN as an in-situ surface passivation technique for III-nitride based high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs). High 2DEG densities >2×10 13 cm −2 and sheet resistance