cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Association of Major Depressive Disorder with Serum Myeloperoxidase and other Markers of Inflammation: A Twin Study

Background Major depressive disorder (MDD) has been linked to inflammation, but this association may be due to common precursors to both depression and inflammation. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an inflammatory enzyme produced by activated leukocytes that predicts risk of coronary heart disease. We sought to examine whether MPO and other markers of inflammation are associated with MDD and whether the association is confounded by genetic or other shared familial factors. Methods We examined 178 monozygotic and dizygotic middle-aged male twin pairs. We assessed MDD with the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV. Blood markers of inflammation included MPO, interleukin-6, white blood cell count, C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, the TNF-α soluble receptor II, and fibrinogen. Analyses were conducted in the overall sample and among 67 twin pairs discordant for MDD using mixed effects regression. Results Twins with a history of MDD had 32% higher levels of MPO ( p p p = .13). Similar, but weaker, associations were found between MDD and other inflammatory biomarkers. Conclusions Myeloperoxidase is a useful biomarker of immune activation in MDD. However, the association between inflammation and MDD is largely due to common genetic liability. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that genes promoting inflammation are involved in the pathogenesis of MDD.
Goal-oriented error estimation and adaptivity for the finite element method

Abstract In this paper, we study a new approach in a posteriori error estimation, in which the numerical error of finite element approximations is estimated in terms of quantities of interest rather than the classical energy norm. These so-called quantities of interest are characterized by linear functionals on the space of functions to where the solution belongs. We present here the theory with respect to a class of elliptic boundary-value problems, and in particular, show how to obtain accurate estimates as well as upper and lower bounds on the error. We also study the new concept of goal-oriented adaptivity, which embodies mesh adaptation procedures designed to control error in specific quantities. Numerical experiments confirm that such procedures greatly accelerate the attainment of local features of the solution to preset accuracies as compared to traditional adaptive schemes based on energy norm error estimates.
Preparation and properties of a soluble aromatic ladder polymer

Abstract A soluble ladder polymer, poly(4-(3-pyridyl), 8-methyl, 2, 3 - 6, 7-quinolino) (PPMQ) was synthesized. The ladder polymer and its intermediate polymer were characterized with n.m.r. and i.r. spectra. Electronic paramagnetic resonance (e.p.r.) and electronic conductivity of pristine and iodine doped PPMQ were studied. The conductivity increases 5 orders of magnitude by iodine doping; at room temperature, the highest value found was 0.017 S/cm.
Surface wave propagation measurements in unshielded XLPE power cables

Surface wave propagation velocities on unshielded power cables are experimentally determined. The waves are launched using broadband monopole wave launchers. Gaussian pulse waveforms of duration 2 and 4 ns are used to perform the study. It is found that the velocity of propagation is about 2.8×108 m/s within the frequency range of 50-300 MHz. These results are of significance for future potential sensor development that will detect power cable defects due to aging, water treeing, and partial discharge.
Kidney ultrasound is useful tool in posttransplant follow-up.

Abstract Objectives Renal sonography has been an important imaging tool in surveys of kidney diseases. We reviewed our experience in the finding and management of asymptomatic patients who underwent renal transplantation. Methods We performed baseline graft and native kidney sonography after renal transplantation, as well as annually even if the patient was asymptomatic. At the end of 2004, a total of 326 transplant cases had been annually surveyed. If the findings were positive, they were compared with previous data to determine the need for further examinations and management. Results The native kidneys of 105 patients were abnormal. Cysts were detected in 71 cases, 23 of which were bilateral. Stones were found in 15 cases. Polycystic kidney disease was identified in 5. The findings in these 91 patients were the same as before. Moderate hydronephrosis was observed in 14 cases. Nine had native ureteral cancer and underwent nephroureterectomy. Ureteral stricture was found in the other 5 patients. Forty-five grafts were abnormal. Thirty-one showed hydronephrosis and 2 underwent ureteral reimplantation. Asymptomatic stones were found in 2. A new single renal cyst was found in 2 cases; and multiple cysts in one other. Elevated RI on color Doppler was discovered in 12 patients, 4 of whom lost their grafts this year. Serum creatinine values of 6.9 and 2.2 mg/dL were observed in 2 patients. Conclusions Renal sonography screening is useful not only for the graft but also for the native kidney. Hydronephrosis is an important finding. The high possibility of urothelial malignancy should be expected, requiring further examination and sequential follow-up. Elevated RI is a clue to predict graft outcome; rapid deterioration was observed within months.
Imaging for coronary risk assessment: ready for prime time?

since the introduction of the concept of cardiovascular risk factors in 1961 by the Framingham Heart Study investigators ([1][1]), clinicians and patients have been seeking better tools to assess the likelihood of future cardiovascular events. As our knowledge in this area has grown, so has the
Biomimetics of stabilized earth construction: Challenges and opportunities

Abstract This state-of-the-art paper is based on the premise that skin vasculature holds several important clues on how energy-efficiency could be accomplished in indoor environments. It is also based on the premise that stabilized earth, which has been extensively used throughout the world as a construction material, could be engineered to mimic the evolutionary developments in biology. The paper begins with a summary of recent developments in plant physiology and skin vasculature, and applies these developments in the context of stabilized earth construction. A number of interdisciplinary research opportunities are identified for communities engaged in building and energy research. This paper is developed from the proceedings of an international workshop on biomimetics of stabilized earth construction, held in Reading, UK, in March 2011.
Clinical-Physiological Correlations in the Development of Hypertensive Heart Disease

In order to understand more precisely the progression of ventricular dysfunction in hypertension prior to development of ventricular failure, 25 normal volunteer subjects and 97 untreated essential hypertensive patients (21 of whom had coronary arteriography and failed to show significant atherosclerosis) were classified into three groups: (I) normal-sized hearts, 54 patients; (II) left atrial enlargement (ECG criteria), 20 patients; and (III) left ventricular enlargement (ECG and chest X-ray criteria), 23 patients. Heart rate was elevated (P < 0.001) in all three groups; total peripheral resistance and arterial pressure increased progressively from group I to II to III (P < 0.001); cardiac index was reduced only in group III (P < 0.001). However, despite normal cardiac index in group II, left ventricular ejection rate was impaired (P < 0.01), and tension-time index and pressure-time per beat were greater than in patients with normal-sized hearts (P < 0.001). Thus, left atrial enlargement provided the ini...
Precursor-directed biosynthesis of 16-membered macrolides by the erythromycin polyketide synthase

Streptomyces coelicolor CH999/pJRJ2 harbors a plasmid encoding DEBS(KS1 degrees ), a mutant form of 6-deoxyerythronolide B synthase that is blocked in the formation of 6-deoxyerythronolide B (1, 6-dEB) due to a mutation in the active site of the ketosynthase (KS1) domain that normally catalyzes the first polyketide chain elongation step of 6-dEB biosynthesis. Administration of (2E,4S,5R)-2,4-dimethyl-5-hydroxy-2-heptenoic acid, N-acetylcysteamine thioester (6) an unsaturated triketide analogue of the natural triketide chain elongation intermediate to cultures of S. coelicolor CH999/pJRJ2 results in formation of a 16-membered macrolactone, which is isolated in the hemiketal form 33. The formation of the octaketide 33 indicates that the triketide substrate has been processed by DEBS module 2 as if it were a diketide analogue. The substrate specificity of this novel reaction has been explored by the incubation of three additional analogues of the unsaturated triketide 6, compounds 18, 31, and 32, with S. coelicolor CH999/pJRJ2, resulting in the formation of the corresponding macrolactones 34, 35, and 36. By contrast, the unsaturated triketide 10, lacking a methyl group at C-2, did not give rise to any detectable macrolactone product when incubated with S. coelicolor CH999/pJRJ2.
Control of microRNA biogenesis by TGFβ signaling pathway—A novel role of Smads in the nucleus

microRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNAs that modulate diverse biological functions through the repression of target genes. miRNA profiling studies have indicated that the levels of miRNAs are altered during normal development and pathogenesis of various diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular disorders. The signaling pathways which control miRNA biogenesis and the mechanisms of regulation, however, are not well understood. Following transcription, mature miRNAs are generated through a series of coordinated processing events mediated by large protein complexes. We recently found that signal transducers of the Transforming Growth Factor β (TGFβ) signaling pathway, the Smads, play a regulatory role in the processing of miRNA in the nucleus. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the regulation of miRNA biogenesis mediated by the TGFβ signaling pathway.
Partial characterization of a 36-kDa protein from Clostridium botulinum type E that inhibits trypsin and chymotrypsin.

A 36-kDa trypsin inhibitor was purified from Clostridium botulinum type E culture supernatant by multiple molecular sieve and ion exchange chromatographic steps. The sequence of the amino-terminal 13 amino acid residues of this single-chain protein is Asn.Gln.Glu.Val.Phe.Asn.Met.Pro.Lys.Phe.Ser.Thr.Ala—. This novel protein that also inhibits chymotrypsin is produced by an organism that does not appear to produce any protease.
Influence of hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin on transdermal penetration and photostability of avobenzone

Abstract The objective of the present study was to determine the effects of hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPCD) complexation on the transdermal penetration and photostability of a model ultraviolet A (UVA) absorber, butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane (avobenzone), and to determine the influence of complexation on in vivo photoprotection. Avobenzone–HPCD complexation was demonstrated by differential scanning calorimetry. Formulations containing 0.12 mg/ml avobenzone and up to 30% (w/w) HPCD were prepared. Transdermal penetration was conducted using a modified Franz diffusion cell apparatus. As the concentration of HPCD was increased from 0% to 20%, transdermal permeation increased. Maximum flux occurred at 20% HPCD, where sufficient cyclodextrin was present to completely solubilize all avobenzone. When the concentration of HPCD was increased to 30%, transdermal penetration decreased, suggesting the formation of an avobenzone reservoir on the skin surface. Photostability of avobenzone was investigated under 100, 250, and 500 kJ/m2 UVA irradiation. The 30% HPCD formulation was the most photostable, followed by 20%, 10%, and 0% formulations. In vivo, the 30% HPCD formulation afforded the best photoprotection, as evidenced by the lowest extent of sunburn cell formation and edema induction. This work indicates that inclusion of HPCD in sunscreen formulations may enhance photoprotection by reducing both skin penetration and photodecomposition of UV absorbers.
No free ride? The hidden costs of delayed operative management using a spring-loaded silo for gastroschisis.

Abstract Purpose The ideal management of gastroschisis (primary vs staged closure) has not yet been established. Despite the ease of silo placement, anecdotal experience shows that silos do not always offer benefit. The aim of this study was to highlight concerns regarding use of spring loaded silos and compare outcomes to primary closure. Methods Thirty-seven neonates with gastroschisis treated with either primary (n = 10) or staged closure with a spring-loaded silo (n = 27) were reviewed (1998-2007). Variables included ventilator days, daily intravenous fluid, hospital days, and complication rates. SPSS (SPSS Inc, Chicago, Ill) was used to perform t test and χ 2 analyses (significance P Results Survival for primary closure was 100% (10/10) compared to 89% (24/27) for staged closure ( P = .548). Patients managed with silos required prolonged ventilation (16.1 ± 4 days vs 3.6 ± 1 days; P ≤ .05) and greater intravenous fluids on days 3, 4, and 5 of life (132 ± 25 mL/kg per day vs 104 ± 18 mL/kg per day; P ≤ .01). Although there was no difference in the complication rates between the groups, several problems were evident in the silo group: 15% (4/27) required silo replacement, 44% (12/27) required fascial defect enlargement for silo placement, and 19% (5/27) required mesh at closure. No significant differences in recovery of intestinal function were observed. Three silo patients developed ischemic complications because of vascular insufficiency at the level of the abdominal wall, leading to significant intestinal loss, ventilator and total parenteral nutrition dependence, and increased hospital stay. Conclusions Patients managed with a silo had longer ventilator requirements and greater fluid needs. This Specific technical complications leading to bowel ischemia were notable in the silo group. The silo should be carefully placed to avoid bowel twisting and the funnel effect. Larger prospective studies should be performed to provide decision-making criteria for the use of a silo vs primary closure.
Composite model with confining SU(N) × SU(2)L × SU(2)R hypercolor

Abstract A model of composite quarks and leptons is constructed with confining SU( N ) × SU(2) L × SU(2) R hypercolor interactions such that only standard quark and lepton families appear in global SU(2) L × SU(2) R doublets. Several generations are admitted by the anomaly-matching conditions and labeled by a discrete axial symmetry. The SU( N ) interactions are N independent and play the role of technicolor. Three conserved U(1) V charges identified with Q , B − L and B + L prohibit qqq → l c transitions.
Effect of supplemental ground flaxseed fed to beef cattle grazing summer native range on the northern Great Plains.

Two experiments were conducted si- multaneously to evaluate the effects of supplemental ground flaxseed on site and extent of digestion and growth performance in beef cattle grazing summer na- tive range. Six Angus heifers (initial BW 367 ± 8.0 kg) fitted with ruminal and duodenal cannulas were used in Exp. 1, and 18 Angus cross steers (initial BW 368 ± 4.6 kg) were used in Exp. 2. Cattle from both experiments were allotted to 1 of 3 individually fed treatments: grazing only (CON), grazing plus a cracked corn-soybean meal supplement fed at 0.32% of BW once daily (CRN), or grazing plus ground flax- seed fed at 0.18% of BW once daily (FLX). In Exp. 1, supplement did not affect (P = 0.24) masticate in vitro OM digestibility; however, between supplemented treatments, cattle fed FLX tended (P = 0.10) to select a lesser quality masticate than corn-fed cattle. Forage OM intake was not affected (P = 0.17) by supplemen- tation, nor was there a difference (P = 0.51) between CRN and FLX. A quadratic (P = 0.001) response was observed for forage OM intake as the grazing season advanced. Duodenal and fecal OM flows were not dif- ferent (P ≥ 0.42) across treatments. Therefore, true ruminal and total tract OM digestibilities did not differ (P ≥ 0.40) between CON and supplement treatments, and total tract digestibility was greater (P = 0.04) for CRN than FLX. Total duodenal N flow did not differ (P = 0.20) across treatments, but responded quadrati- cally (P = 0.03) with advancing season. True ruminal N digestibility was not affected by supplementation (P ≥ 0.20). Likewise, ruminal NDF digestibility did not differ (P = 0.29) with supplementation, and CRN was not different (P = 0.27) from FLX. In Exp. 2, there was a treatment × period interaction for forage intake (P < 0.001), ADG (P = 0.001), and feed efficiency (P < 0.001). Supplement did not change (P = 0.34) for- age intake compared with CON, but it was greater for CRN than FLX (P < 0.001). Nevertheless, ADG was greater for supplemented steers (P < 0.001) compared with CON, but did not differ (P = 0.41) between CRN and FLX. Feed efficiency was improved (P < 0.001) for supplemented steers and was greater (P = 0.01) for FLX than CRN. Although ground flaxseed reduced di- gestibility compared with a corn-soybean supplement, this reduction in diet digestibility did not negatively affect the growth performance of grazing steers.
CP, R invariance and non-renormalization theorems in N = 1 supergravity

Abstract N = 1 supergravity models have new, CP violating phases which can give too large a neutron electric dipole moment. We show that, in large classes of models, these phases are naturally ∼10 −15 or ∼λ 2 /4π 2 (where λ is a Yukawa coupling). This results from a connection between CP and R invariance, a novel consequence of non-renormalization theorems, and a general fermion-boson mass relation.
The basic concepts of the 0-lattice theory

Abstract The 0-lattice theory is a geometrical approach to the structure of crystalline interfaces. The quantitative evaluation of the theory and its application to specific problems needs a certain amount of linear algebra. In this paper the concepts of the theory are discussed as far as possible in non-mathematical terms in order to promote general understanding of the basis and of the field of application of the theory.
SPONTANEOUS EMISSION IN A STANDING-WAVE CAVITY : QUANTUM-MECHANICAL CENTER-OF-MASS MOTION

We solve the spontaneous-emission problem for an atom coupled to a standing-wave cavity mode. The interaction between the atom and the cavity mode is treated nonperturbatively with the quantized motion of the atom along the cavity axis included. Results are presented for the spontaneous-emission spectrum and the final momentum distribution of the atom. For equal atomic and cavity linewidths analytical results are obtained using a Bloch-state basis (eigenstates of the coupled atom and cavity mode); these are compared with results calculated in the Raman-Nath approximation. The case of unequal linewidths may be solved numerically using the eigenstates of the uncoupled atom and cavity mode as a basis, or analytically by making a secular approximation in the Bloch-state basis. The distribution of final atomic momentum shows that under strong-coupling conditions the atom is diffracted by its radiation reaction field. We compare the spontaneous emission spectra with spectra calculated by treating the motion of the atom classically. Generally there is good agreement when the classical results are averaged over the quantum-mechanical uncertainty in the initial position of the atom. The agreement is lost for sufficiently strong dipole coupling or sufficiently light atoms. Then, spectra that are symmetric in the classical treatment are asymmetric in the quantum treatment due to energy exchange between the internal degrees of freedom and center-of-mass degrees of freedom of the atom.
Relationship between reaction time and number of choice alternatives in an overlearned task.

A choice-reaction-time experiment is reported in which Ss named visually displayed numerals. Choice conditions were varied by presenting 6 different sets of stimuli containing either 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, or 32 stimulus alternatives. Reaction time was a function of the number of stimulus alternatives. Response latency, measured from onset of S's voice, increased as the number of stimulus alternatives increased.
The effect of the temperature of incubation on the formation and release of herpes simplex virus in infected FL cells

Abstract The formation and release of herpes simplex virus from infected FL cells incubated at 31°, 34°, 37°, and 39.5°C were measured on the chorioallantoic membrane of embryonated hens' eggs. The results were expressed in terms of pock-forming units (PoFU) found per cell. The peak titers of intracellular virus from cultures incubated at 31° and 37° were of the same order of magnitude but were one-seventh of the peak reached at 34°. At 39.5° the peak yield was only one-twentieth of that at 34°. The peak titers at 37° and 39.5° were reached at 17 hours, 34° at 21 hours, and 31° at 26 hours or more. The maximum rate of formation was at 34°. The most rapid rates of release, the largest quantities of infectious virus recovered per cell from the fluid phase, and the highest amounts of released virus relative to maximum intracellular levels were found at 37°. The amount of extracellular virus recovered at 25 hours after infection from cultures incubated at 34° was about one-half that recovered at 37° and represented only one-sixteenth of the loss in extracellular virus levels observed between 21 and 25 hours after infection. The extracellular virus recovered at 39.5° and 31° was only one-tenth and one-fifteenth, respectively, of the extracellular virus recovered at 37°. Kinetic studies of thermal inactivation at 31°, 36.5°, and 39.5° of virus formed at 31° show a lag phase varying in duration depending on the temperature of inactivation. The poor recovery of intracellular virus in the extracellular fluid at 34° cannot be accounted for by thermal inactivation of virus similar to that used in the inactivation studies.
Effects of fuel and oxidizer particle dimensions on the propagation of aluminum containing thermites

Abstract Results from combustion experiments, in which the fuel and oxidizer particle sizes of Al/CuO and Al/MoO 3 thermites were varied between the nanometer and micrometer scale, are presented to gain further insight into the factors governing their rate of propagation. The experiments were performed with thermite mixtures loosely packed in an instrumented burn tube. Critical properties, including linear propagation rates, dynamic pressure, and spectral emission, were measured and compared to determine if the scale of one constituent had more influence over the rate of propagation than the other. It was found that, although nano-fuel/nano-oxidizer composites propagated the fastest for both the Al/CuO and Al/MoO 3 thermites, composites containing micron-aluminum and a nano-scale oxidizer propagated significantly faster than a composite of nano-aluminum and a micron-scale oxidizer. The impact of nano-scale oxidizer versus nano-scale Al is twofold. Firstly, mixtures containing nano-aluminum have a greater mass percentage of Al 2 O 3 , which reduces reaction temperatures and propagation rates. Secondly, reactions in porous nano-thermites propagate through a convective mechanism; with heat transfer being driven by flow induced by large pressure gradients. Mixtures containing nano-scale oxidizer particles show faster pressurization rates. Because the majority of gas generation is due to the decomposition or vaporization of the oxide in these reactions, and oxide particles on the nano-scale have shorter heat-up times and smaller length scales for gas diffusion than micron particles, convective burning is greatly enhanced with the nano-scale oxidizer.
Nonhypoglycemic Effects of Thiazolidinediones

The thiazolidinediones are a new class of compounds for treatment of type 2 diabetes. Troglitazone became available in the United States in 1997 but was withdrawn from the market in March 2000 because it caused severe idiosyncratic liver injury. Rosiglitazone and pioglitazone have been available since 1999. Because these drugs directly improve insulin resistance and decrease plasma insulin levels (a risk factor for coronary artery disease), they may decrease risk for cardiovascular disease in patients with type 2 diabetes. Research on the non-glucose lowering effects of troglitazone and, to a lesser extent, of rosiglitazone and pioglitazone have demonstrated changes in several cardiovascular risk factors associated with the insulin resistance syndrome. These beneficial effects include a decrease in blood pressure, correction of diabetic dyslipidemia, improvement of fibrinolysis, and decrease in carotid artery intima-media thickness. Other in vitro effects related to the ability of these agents to bind a newly described class of receptors (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors) may also have implications for atherosclerosis. However, these drugs increase low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and may favorably change LDL particle size and susceptibility to oxidation (although the implications of the latter changes are not dear). Furthermore, these drugs tend to cause weight gain. The authors' enthusiasm for these drugs has diminished somewhat because of reported adverse events, including rare liver failure. Nevertheless, because of the mechanism of action of the thiazolidinediones, clinical trials designed to determine whether they (or similar "insulin sensitizers") decrease cardiovascular events in people with type 2 diabetes will be of interest.
Fractional power fringe-adjusted joint transform correlation

Generalized fringe-adjusted joint transform correlator (JTC) is proposed, which employs a new family of real-valued filters called the fractional power fringe-adjusted filters (FPFAFs). By suitably adjusting the parameters used in the FPFAF formulation, we can obtain JTC-based classical matched filtering, inverse filtering, and amplitude-modulated phase-only filtering. An efficient JTC architecture for optical implementation of the proposed technique is also developed. The proposed technique is especially suitable for real-time image-processing and remote-sensing applications, since it avoids the limitations of the VanderLugt-type correlators and it has the inherent capability to process both noise-free and noisy input scenes.
Potassium currents in auditory hair cells of the frog basilar papilla.

Abstract The whole-cell patch-clamp technique was used to identify and characterize ionic currents in isolated hair cells of the leopard frog basilar papilla (BP). This end organ is responsible for encoding the upper limits of a frog’s spectral sensitivity (1.25–2.0 kHz in the leopard frog). Isolated BP hair cells are the smallest hair cells in the frog auditory system, with spherical cell bodies typically less than 20 μm in diameter and exhibiting whole-cell capacitances of 4–7 pF. Hair cell zero-current resting potentials (Vz) varied around a mean of −65 mV. All hair cells possessed a non-inactivating, voltage-dependent calcium current (ICa) that activates above a threshold of −55 mV. Similarly all hair cells possessed a rapidly activating, outward, calcium-dependent potassium current (IK(Ca)). Most hair cells also possessed a slowly activating, outward, voltage-dependent potassium current (IK), which is ≈80% inactive at the hair cell Vz, and a fast-activating, inward-rectifying potassium current (IK1) which actively contributes to setting Vz. In a small subset of cells IK was replaced by a fast-inactivating, voltage-dependent potassium current (IA), which strongly resembled the A-current observed in hair cells of the frog sacculus and amphibian papilla. Most cells have very similar ionic currents, suggesting that the BP consists largely of one homogeneous population of hair cells. The kinetic properties of the ionic currents present (in particular the very slow IK) argue against electrical tuning, a specialized spectral filtering mechanism reported in the hair cells of birds, reptiles, and amphibians, as a contributor to frequency selectivity of this organ. Instead BP hair cells reflect a generalized strategy for the encoding of high-frequency auditory information in a primitive, mechanically tuned, terrestrial vertebrate auditory organ.
BUSINESS INVESTMENT IN PLANT AND EQUIPMENT AN EMPIRICAL STUDY

THE EXPLANATION AND prediction of firms' investment decisions is an important element of the economist's attempt to understand and predict the probable future course of economic activity. In particular, the efforts of the Social Systems Research Institute of the University of Wisconsin to build realistic and detailed working models of the United States economy, based on decision unit behavior, will be benefited by empirical work on the investment decision. Previous empirical work has been handicapped to some extent by the absence of certain potentially useful data. The data available to usthe McGraw-Hill Survey of Business' Plans for New Pliant and Equipment and auxiliary financial statement information collected by McGraw-Hill-are a somewhat more complete set of data than has been available to other researchers. Our primary aims were to (1) evaluate two generalizations suggested in previous empirical work: an accelerator hypothesis and a residual funds theory, and (2) to study models involving elements of both explanations. The data were studied on a cross-section basis with standard multiple-regression techniques and on a time series basis with covariance analysis. In addition, predictions for individual firms were aggregated for comparison with observed aggregates, and average residuals were classified by selected pairs of independent variables to discover possible interactions and non-linearities. We found that recent sales changes and capacity variables were quite useful in explaining both actual and planned investment, thus confirming an accelerator model; however, longer-lagged sales changes were not very important. Profits, dividends, and depreciation expense generally behaved as expected under a residual-funds explanation, but these models did not seem to have the explanatory power of the accelerator models. Models involving elements of both theories were quite successful, judging from a priori expectations for signs of coefficients and significance under the usual t-tests. Our time-series models contained variables representing interest rates,
The role of optimum dielectric saturation in the reversible combination of oxygen with heme Fe2+ and the tuning of paramagnetic-diamagnetic switching

Abstract The paramagnetic-diamagnetic switching mechanism of hemoglobin, triggered by oxygen binding, is studied by a formalism involving an expression of work necessary to polarize the dielectric in Landau form. The “tuning” of the mechanism, or determination of occurrence of the switching in response to a certain input energy, is brought about by dielectric saturation of the medium. The relation between the effect of dielectric saturation of the medium and the effect of application of a constant (nonordering) magnetic field indicates charge transfer between the central Fe 2+ ion and the porphyrin ring during switching.
Nice Neighborhood: Emerging Concepts of the Stem Cell Niche

No metazoan cell survives on its own, absent the signals and support of its milieu. For multicellular life with specialized tissues to persist, organization is everything and so defining the association of position with cell state is critical to understanding how tissues function, maintain, and repair. This review focuses specifically on place for progenitor and stem cells. Especially emphasized are hematopoietic cells that balance free movement and stable position and where concepts of regulatory interrelationships have been shown with some precision. It reviews classical and emerging concepts of the niche, particularly considering how niche functions may participate in neoplastic disease.
Reducing NPR 7120.5D to Practice: Preparing for a remote site Life-cycle Review

The Gravity Recovery And Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) mission was the first Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) project initiated under NASA's revised rules for space flight project management, NPR 7120.5D, “NASA Space Flight Program and Project Management Requirements.” 12 NASA selected GRAIL through a competitive Announcement of Opportunity (AO) process and funded its Phase B Preliminary Design effort. The first major milestone was institutional, the JPL Project Mission System Review (PMSR), which proved an excellent tune-up for the end-of-Phase B NASA life-cycle review, the Preliminary Design Review (PDR). Building on JPL experience with the Prometheus and Juno projects, the team successfully organized for and conducted these reviews on an aggressive schedule. The results were summarized in last year's IEEE paper, “Reducing NPR 7120.5D to Practice: Preparing for a Life-cycle Review.” GRAIL successfully passed its KDP-C Confirmation Review and initiated Phase C in March 2009.
Photoionization-Driven X-Ray Line Emission in Cygnus X-3

The ASCA SIS spectrum of the X-ray binary Cygnus X-3 is shown to contain a narrow recombination continuum of hydrogenic sulfur near 3.5 keV, which indicates that the temperature of the X-ray emission-line region is far below the coronal equilibrium temperature required to support S15+. The presence of this feature immediately confirms that X-ray photoionization produces extreme overionization in the circumsource medium, and that the X-ray emission features are energized by the hard X-ray continuum. Therefore, we conclude that spectral analyses of Cygnus X-3 and, most likely, other accretion-powered X-ray sources must be conducted in the context of plasma emission models that account for population kinetics dominated by recombination. Furthermore, the temperature dependence of the shapes of recombination continua provides a simple diagnostic of the electron temperature. We reanalyze the SIS data using a spectral model developed to account for recombination cascades, and, using these diagnostics, derive constraints on the temperatures in the S15+, Si13+, and Mg11+ ionization zones.
Antibody-targeted radiation cancer therapy

Several monoclonal antibodies are now approved for cancer therapy, such as rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody for the treatment of B-cell non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Such 'naked' antibodies can recruit the body's immune effector mechanisms to kill cells expressing the target of the antibody. In recent years, the linking of radionuclides to antibodies to either augment inherent activity or to exploit the specific targeting properties of monoclonal antibodies has been a major area of development. Two radionuclide-bearing monoclonal antibody therapies have recently been approved by the US FDA, and several more are in clinical trials. Here, we discuss the development and use of radiolabelled monoclonal antibody therapies, with a focus on radiolabelled monoclonal antibodies that have been evaluated in clinical trials.
Conditions Comorbid with Chronic Fatigue in a Population-Based Sample

Background Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) has been found to be comorbid with various medical conditions in clinical samples, but little research has investigated CFS comorbidity in population-based samples. Objective This study investigated conditions concurrent with a CFS-like illness among twins in the population-based Mid-Atlantic Twin Registry (MATR), including chronic widespread pain (CWP), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and major depressive disorder (MDD). Method A survey was mailed to participants in the MATR in 1999. Generalized estimating equations were used to estimate odds ratios to assess associations between CFS-like illness and each comorbid condition. Results A total of 4590 completed surveys were collected. Most participants were female (86.3%); mean age was 44.7 years. Among participants with a CFS-like illness, lifetime prevalences of CWP, IBS, and MDD were 41%, 16%, and 57% respectively. Participants reporting at least one of the three comorbid conditions were about 14 times more likely to have CFS-like illness than those without CWP, IBS, or MDD (95% confidence interval 8.1%–21.3%). Only MDD showed a temporal pattern of presentation during the same year as diagnosis of CFS-like illness. Age, gender, body mass index, age at illness onset, exercise level, self-reported health status, fatigue symptoms, and personality measures did not differ between those reporting CFS-like illness with and without comorbidity. Conclusion These results support findings in clinically based samples that CFS-like illness is frequently cormorbid with CWP, IBS, and/or MDD. We found no evidence that CFS-like illnesses with comorbidities are clinically distinct from those without comorbidities.
Genetic interactions among cortical malformation genes that influence susceptibility to convulsions in C. elegans.

Epilepsy is estimated to affect 1–2% of the world population, yet remains poorly understood at a molecular level. We have previously established the roundworm Caenorhabditis elegans as a model for investigating genetic susceptibilities to seizure-like convulsions in vivo. Here we investigate the behavioral consequences of decreasing the activity of nematode gene homologs within the LIS1 pathway that are associated with a human cortical malformation termed lissencephaly. Bioinformatic analysis revealed the nud-2 gene, encoding the worm homolog of mammalian effectors of LIS1, termed NDE1 and NDEL1. Phenotypic analysis of animals targeted by RNA interference (RNAi) was performed using a pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) exposure paradigm to induce convulsions. Worms depleted for LIS1 pathway components (NUD-1, NUD-2, DHC-1, CDK-5, and CDKA-1) exhibited significant convulsions following PTZ and RNAi treatment. Strains harboring fluorescent markers for GABAergic neuronal architecture and synaptic vesicle trafficking were employed to discern putative mechanisms accounting for observed convulsion behaviors. We found that depletion of LIS1 pathway components resulted in defective GABA synaptic vesicle trafficking. We also utilized combinations of specific genetic backgrounds to create a sensitized state for convulsion susceptibility and discovered that convulsion effects were significantly enhanced when LIS-1 and other pathway components were compromised within the same animals. Thus, interactions among gene products with LIS-1 may mediate intrinsic thresholds of neuronal synchrony.
Pituitary and hypothalamic hormones in normal and neoplastic adrenal medullae: biologically active corticotropin-releasing hormone and corticotropin.

Abstract Six normal and 8 neoplastic adrenal medullae were assayed for several immunoreactive (IR) proopiomelanocortin (POMC) and hypothalamic peptides. IR-POMC peptides were found in normal and tumor tissue in concentrations ranging from 0.0003 to 0.1% of those in pituitary. Their molecular sizes resembled those of pituitary intermediate lobe POMC peptides. No intact POMC was found. One pheochromocytoma contained fully bioactive IR-adrenocorticotropic hormone (IR-ACTH; Mr ∼ 4,500) and an intermediate-sized (Mr ∼ 10,000) IR-ACTH with ∼69% bioactivity. Normal and tumorous medullae contained IR-corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) in concentrations ranging from 0.6 to 4% of those in hypothalamus except for one pheochromocytoma that contained 40 times that amount of IR-CRH, which was chromatographically indistinguishable from hypothalamic CRH and fully bioactive. IR-somatostatin and IR-growth hormone-releasing hormone were found in both tissue types, but IR-gonadotropin-releasing hormone and IR-thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) were not, although IR-histidyl-proline diketopiperazine, a putative TRH metabolite, was found. IR-arginine vasopressin was found in two normal medullae, but not in pheochromocytomas.
Bad Apples or Bad Bushel?: Ethics, Efficiency, and Capital Market Integrity

Popular interpretation of the recent financial scandals describes the individuals and firms charged with wrongdoing as ‘bad apples’ while retaining a sanguine view of the capital markets overall. The system-wide reach of the revealed malfeasance, however, suggests that the root cause of the scandals resides instead in the capital markets’ institutional norms. Specifically, we argue that norms have developed that promulgate the selfenrichment of the intermediaries who facilitate capital transactions at the expense of the principal parties to the transactions. This not only represents an ethical breakdown of the system, but also implies a simultaneous loss of efficiency, since professional integrity is the fundamental value proposition of financial intermediaries. To set the stage, we establish the holistic and systematic interdependence of the capital markets and clarify the broad roles they require. As increasing numbers of business scandals are brought to light, it becomes ever clearer that the ‘problem’ facing the capital markets is pervasive throughout financial intermediaries, shifting the relevant questions from ones of how to deal with the few ‘bad apples’ to questions about the ‘bushel’ that contains them. The widespread and systematically interconnected nature of these ethical lapses threatens the markets in a fundamental way.
An imaging, communications and beamed power architecture for first responders

Electric power delivered as wireless beams through aerial platforms can make a large difference to the ability of first responders to find and rescue survivors in an emergency. An architecture suitable for India is proposed, synergizing developments in millimeter wave power beaming, phase array antennae, waveguides, tethers and lighter than air aerial vehicles. The role of emergency services in the overall architecture of power beaming is briefly discussed, setting it in context in the progression from intercontinental space power grid to retail power delivery. While technical barriers remain, there is a practical, moderate-risk roadmap to making this architecture routinely practical. A series of demonstration experiments suitable for development into a prototype first responder system is laid out.
Game theory and belief in God

In the last few decades game theory has emerged as a powerful tool for examining a broad range of philosophical issues. It is unsurprising, then, that game theory has been taken up as a tool to examine issues in the philosophy of religion. Economist Steven Brams (1982), (1983) and (2007), for example, has given a game theoretic analysis of belief in God, his main argument first published in this journal and then again in both editions of his book, Superior Beings. I have two main aims in this paper, one specific and one general. My specific aim is to show that Brams’ application of game theory to examine belief in God is, in particular, deeply flawed in two respects. My general aim is to show that any game-theoretic model in which a human being and God are players can only succeed at the cost of abandoning the assumption that God is omnibenevolent.
The influence of the metalloid elements on the magnetic properties of amorphous Fe40Ni40PyB20−y

Abstract The Curie temperatures (TC) and the hyperfine interactions of amorphous Fe40Ni40PyB20−y(0≤y>≤20) have been determined by 57Fe Mossbauer spectroscopy. In this series of amorphous solid with a fixed transition-metal content, the metalloid atoms are shown to have a noticeable effect on TC, isomer shift and hyperfine field distribution.
Effect of Clearance on Rotary Rock Bit Journal Bearing Contact Stress

This paper presents a numerical method for analyzing the effect of clearance on closely conforming rotary rock bit journal bearings. The modified Boussinesq point-force displacement influence function and the modified profile function are introduced in conjunction with the discretization of the integral equation. Automatic mesh generation is employed to redefine a new pressure area boundary and therefore round-off errors normally found while solving a large-scale linear system of equations can be avoided. The numerical method has been implemented in a computer program and has been applied to the problems of misaligned and perfectly aligned conformal contact. There is a close agreement with the Persson’s analytical solution at the center of the aligned bearing length. However, owing to a high stress concentration at the bearing edge, the edge pressure distribution will differ significantly from the Persson’s plane stress model. The conformal contact will have a comparatively higher peak pressure and lower contact-angle than the Hertzian line contact prediction. The results of the analysis provides a design tool for improving drill bit life.
When are pivotal interchanges not necessary

Solving a linear system Ax = b by Gaussian Elimination usually entails pivotal inter-changes designed to inhibit that explosive growth of intermediate results which would otherwise, through roundoff, vitiate the calculation. But these interchanges, motivated by numerical desiderata, frequently conflict with combinatorial desiderata like "Sparsity". We shall show that two special cases in which interchanges are well known not to be needed for stability, namely, when A is positive definite or diagonally dominant, are examples of a more frequent situation; A's field of values lies in a half-plane not containing zero. This situation, which is associated with certain electric networks and some boundary value problems, allows at least in principle for an estimate of the number of extra guard digits that need be carried to prevent explosive growth from blighting results obtained without interchanges.
A Model of the Effects of Pressure and Crossflow Velocity on Composite Propellant Burning Rate

Abstract : Several variations of a model for prediction of burning rate versus pressure behavior of unimodal oxidizer composite propellants in the absence of crossflow were developed and evaluated against a set of data for a series of four formulations. Three variants, including one in which an average oxidizer- burning-surface intersectional area concept is employed and two in which allowance is made for geometry and stoichiometry changes as the propellant recedes past an oxidizer crystal, were found to give excellent agreement with data. The former variant was extended to treat multimodal oxidizer formulations, yielding predictions in excellent agreement with data for two additional formulations containing bimodal oxidizer. In the initial development of the erosive burning aspect of the model, columnar diffusion flame bending was assumed to the sole mechanism leading to burning rate augmentation by crossflow. This assumption led to severe underprediction of erosive burning effects. Accordingly, the model was revised through addition of a flow profile analysis for prediction of cross-flow-induced turbulence augmentation of transport properties governing heat feedback from gas flames as well as flame-bending. This revised model was found to yield good agreement with erosive burning data for five of the six formulations tested, but gave higher predicted rates than observed values for the sixth propellant.