cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Efficiency of methane and acetylene in forming diamond by microwave plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition

Diamond films were grown by microwave plasma assisted chemical vapor deposition using mixtures of 1% 13CH4 and 0.5% 12C2H2 in H2, and stable gaseous products were analyzed by mass spectrometry. The major gaseous products are methane and acetylene, and scrambling of the 13C label can be controlled at relatively high gas flow rates. At the highest flow rate studied a diamond film was grown with 77% 13C incorporation, while the methane in the reactor exhaust gas at this flow rate contained 83% 13C. By comparing gaseous 13C compositions with that of the films, the efficiency of diamond growth from methane (possibly via the methyl radical) is estimated to be about ten times higher than that for acetylene.
Effects of N-ethylmaleimide on ouabain-insensitive cation fluxes in human red cell ghosts

Abstract In red cells of several species, the sulfhydryl reagent N -ethylmaleimide activates a Cl − -dependent, ouabain-resistant K + transport pathway. Here we report our attempts to demonstrate ouabain-resistant Cl − -dependent K + fluxes stimulated by N -ethylmaleimide in resealed human red cell ghosts using Rb + as a K + analogue. In contrast to intact cells, the rate constants of the base level Rb + efflux in ghosts were similar in NaNO 3 and NaCl (° k Rb = 0.535 ± 0.079 h −1 and 0.534 ± 0.085 h −1 , respectively), while 1 mM N -ethylmaleimide stimulated Rb + efflux strongly in NaNO 3 (° k Rb = 14.26 ± 1.32 h −1 ) and moderately in NaCl (° k Rb = 2.73 ± 0.54 h −1 ). This effect was dependent on the presence of internal ATP. Stimulation of Rb + efflux was observed in the presence of ⩾ 0.2 mM N -ethylmaleimide and increased at pH values approaching 8.0, consistent with titration of SH groups. N -Ethylmaleimide-stimulated Rb + efflux was approx. 50% inhibited by 100 μM quinine sulfate whereas 1 μM bumetanide had no effect. In NaCl the N -ethylmaleimide-stimulated efflux saturated with initial internal ghost Rb + concentration, but rates increased linearly in NaNO 3 . Replacement of external Na + with glucamine or choline decreased the N -ethylmaleimide-stimulated Rb + efflux, suggesting a role for external Na + . N -Ethylmaleimide-stimulated Rb + efflux was greater in buffers with lipophilic anions such as SCN − or NO 3 − than in solutions with Cl − or acetate. However, the conclude that the effect of N -ethylmaleimide on ouabain-resistant cation effluxes of human red cell ghosts is very different from the selective action of N -ethylmaleimide on Rb + influxes in intact red cells.
Infinite player noncooperative games and the continuity of the Nash equilibruim correspondence

The usual definition of a noncooperative game is extended in two different ways: first, by replacing the finite player set with a measure space, and second, by eliminating the player set and considering a distribution of the players' characteristics. Feasible strategy profiles and Nash equilibria obtained from the two approaches are compared. The feasible strategy profile correspondence is shown to be continuous. The Nash equilibrium correspondence is shown to be upper hemicontinuous and nearly lower hemicontinuous on the class of convex and equicontinuous games. These results show when it is reasonable to use an infinite player game as an approximation of a large, but finite, player game.
Impaired recognition of fear facial expressions in 5-HTTLPR S-polymorphism carriers following tryptophan depletion.

Rationale Genotype at the 5′ promoter region (5-HTTLPR) of the serotonin transporter has been implicated in moderating the effects of acute tryptophan depletion on neurocognitive functioning. Acute tryptophan depletion has been associated with the processing of fear-relevant cues, such as emotional expressions, but the effect of genotype at the 5-HTTLPR has not been assessed. Objective The present study investigated the effects of acute tryptophan depletion on the recognition of standardized facial expressions of emotions in healthy volunteers classified as ll homozygotes or s carriers. Materials and methods A double-blind between-groups design was used with volunteers randomly selected to ingest capsules containing an amino acid mixture specifically lacking tryptophan, or placebo capsules containing lactose. 5 h after capsule ingestion, subjects were required to identify anger, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness, and surprise expressions that progressed from neutral to each full emotional expression in 5% steps. Results Tryptophan depletion significantly impaired the recognition of fearful facial expressions in s carriers but not ll homozygotes. This impairment was specific to fear expressions. No significant differences in the recognition of other expressions were found. Free tryptophan levels were correlated with fear recognition in s carriers but not ll homozygotes. Conclusions The effects of acute tryptophan depletion on the processing of emotional expressions varies as a function of genotype at the 5-HTTLPR. Depletion impairs the recognition of fear in s carriers but not ll homozygotes. This finding reinforces the importance of considering genotype when assessing the behavioral effects of pharmacologic modulation.
DASH for asthma: A pilot study of the DASH diet in not-well-controlled adult asthma

This pilot study aims to provide effect size confidence intervals, clinical trial and intervention feasibility data, and procedural materials for a full-scale randomized controlled trial that will determine the efficacy of Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) as adjunct therapy to standard care for adults with uncontrolled asthma. The DASH diet encompasses foods (e.g., fresh fruit, vegetables, and nuts) and antioxidant nutrients (e.g., vitamins A, C, E, and zinc) with potential benefits for persons with asthma, but it is unknown whether the whole diet is beneficial. Participants (n = 90) will be randomized to receive usual care alone or combined with a DASH intervention consisting of 8 group and 3 individual sessions during the first 3 months, followed by at least monthly phone consultations for another 3 months. Follow-up assessments will occur at 3 and 6 months. The primary outcome measure is the 7-item Juniper Asthma Control Questionnaire, a validated composite measure of daytime and nocturnal symptoms, activity limitations, rescue medication use, and percentage predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 second. We will explore changes in inflammatory markers important to asthma pathophysiology (e.g., fractional exhaled nitric oxide) and their potential to mediate the intervention effect on disease control. We will also conduct pre-specified subgroup analyses by genotype (e.g., polymorphisms on the glutathione S transferase gene) and phenotype (e.g., atopy, obesity). By evaluating a dietary pattern approach to improving asthma control, this study could advance the evidence base for refining clinical guidelines and public health recommendations regarding the role of dietary modifications in asthma management.
Electron Scattering in Superconducting Oxides

Electron energy loss measurements on superconducting oxides are correlated with an acoustic plasm on branch whose energy and width is highly sensitive to the alloy composition. Changing oxygen content reveals structure in the electron cross section which tracks the changes in the superconducting transition temperature.
Liberalization Policies and Foreign Companies in Accra, Ghana

Globalization in the periphery of the world economy is a poorly understood phenomenon. Africa is stereotypically ‘excluded’ from globalization, and research has not clarified that general negative assessment for specific places in Africa. To redress this deficiency, I examine globalization empirically from the ground upwards through an analysis of foreign companies. Primary and secondary data were collected at the local level to examine the nature and extent of foreign corporate activity in Accra, Ghana. The evidence points to growing inclusion in, rather than exclusion from, the world economy, to increasing service-sector rather than extractive-sector investment, and to foreign companies producing for local and regional markets as well as for international markets. Foreign companies employ a range of strategies to embed themselves in the local market: establishing joint ventures, developing local products, joining national stock markets, and historicizing their presence in the market. This study reemphas...
A Technique for the Study of Lipid‐Soluble Food Flavor Volatilesa,b

SUMMARY A low-temperature high-vacuum distillation technique utilizing a molecular still is described. The flavor volatiles are distilled into liquid N2 traps, transferred to a stainless-steel helical trap of special design, and then blown into a gas chromatograph. Identification of the flavor volatiles is based on relative specific retention volume and collection of the fractions for analysis by techniques such as mass spectrometry. Results are given for application of the described techniques to study of the lipid-soluble flavor volatiles of Cheddar cheese.
Adolescents and Norplant: Preliminary findings of side effects

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to investigate side effects such as menstrual irregularities, weight gain, and blood pressure changes among adolescent females who had been implanted with Norplant eight or more months. Method: A retrospective chart review was completed on adolescents who received care through an outpatient adolescent gynecology service. Subjects (n = 110) with an average age of 17.2 years were implanted with Norplant between March 1991 and February 1992. The mean length of time since implantation was 12.7 months and 64% were African-American. Data collected included: dates of all medical visits; presence of acne, mood changes, and menstrual patterns following implantation. Measurements of blood pressure and weight were taken at implantation and at all subsequent visits. Results: Weights for Caucasian females at the last visit were significantly higher than at baseline (P Conclusion: Weight gain was the most frequently observed side-effect of Norplant in adolescents in this study.
Distribution of the group specific (Gc) serum component in the populations of the Markham Valley, New Guinea.

The distribution of the Gc phenotypes was determined by immunoelectrophoresis amongst 486 inhabitants of nine villages of the Markham River Valley of New Guinea. The overall gene frequencies were Gc1, 0.538; Gc2, 0.351; GcAborigine, 0.112. GcAborigine occurred in all the villages, its frequency ranging from 0.041 to 0.187. The Gc2 gene frequency also varied widely ranging from 0.167 to 0.491. No correlation could be found between altitude and the Gc distribution and there was an overlap in the gene frequencies between the Austronesian and non-Austronesian-speaking villages.
Addition of water and ammonia cloud microphysics to the EPIC model

An active hydrological cycle has been added to the EPIC general circulation model (GCM) for planetary applications, with a special emphasis on Jupiter. Scientists have suspected for decades that clouds, and in particular latent heating, strongly influence Jupiter's atmospheric dynamics and this research provides a tool to investigate this phenomenon. Components of the model have been adapted for the planetary setting from recently published Earth microphysics schemes. The behavior of the cloud model is investigated in two steps. First, we explore in detail the runtime properties of a nominal model, and second, through sensitivity tests we determine how the full microphysics and selected components of the scheme affect the formation and evolution of clouds and precipitation. Results from our one-dimensional (vertical) simulations match expectations based on thermochemical models about the vertical positioning of ammonia and water clouds, and the nature of precipitation. Using (two-dimensional) meridional plane simulations, we investigate the latitudinal variation of clouds. We conclude that the zonal-wind structure under the visible cloud deck strongly affects the position of the cloud bases, also that the atmospheric dynamics modifies the resulting cloud structure that we can determine in 1D models. We describe in detail an equatorial storm system observed in our 2D simulations. We also show that simplification of our microphysics scheme would improperly simulate large-scale weather phenomena on Jupiter. We support future laboratory tests and in situ measurements that would improve the cloud parameterization scheme and would also add more constraints on the global distribution of condensibles and on the zonal wind-structure. The complete computer program resulting from this research can be downloaded as open-source software from NASA's Planetary Data System (PDS) Atmospheres node.
Individual Environmental Initiative: Championing Natural Environmental Issues in U.S. Business Organizations

Several bodies of literature contributed to a framework describing how three activities—identifying, packaging, and selling—can lead to successful environmental championing. The results of a field ...
Hypertrophic phenotype in cardiac cell assemblies solely by structural cues and ensuing self-organization

In vitro models of cardiac hypertrophy focus exclusively on applying “external” dynamic signals (electrical, mechanical, and chemical) to achieve a hypertrophic state. In contrast, here we set out to demonstrate the role of “self-organized” cellular architecture and activity in reprogramming cardiac cell/tissue function toward a hypertrophic phenotype. We report that in neonatal rat cardiomyocyte culture, subtle out-of-plane microtopographic cues alter cell attachment, increase biomechanical stresses, and induce not only structural remodeling, but also yield essential molecular and electrophysiological signatures of hypertrophy. Increased cell size and cell binucleation, molecular up-regulation of released atrial natriuretic peptide, altered expression of classic hypertrophy markers, ion channel remodeling, and corresponding changes in electrophysiological function indicate a state of hypertrophy on par with other in vitro and in vivo models. Clinically used antihypertrophic pharmacological treatments par...
Effects of Renal Failure and Dialysis on Cefazolin Pharmacokinetics

Serum and urinary levels of cefazolin were determined after a 500-mg parenteral dose in eight azotemic volunteers. The mean peak serum concentration was 1.5 to 5 times the levels obtained in nonazotemic patients. The serum half-life of cefazolin was increased significantly. In patients on dialysis, the mean serum half-life of cefazolin was 4.05 h during (or after) hemodialysis, and 32.1 h during (or after) peritoneal dialysis. There was a significant decrease in cefazolin removal when dialysate flow or membrane surface area of the dialyzer were decreased. It was also shown that one circuit through the dialysis unit caused measurable decrease in cefazolin concentration. These data and previously published reports suggest: (i) the maintenance dose of cefazolin can be decreased in azotemic patients; (ii) patients on hemodialysis will require an additional half dose after dialysis because of efficient removal during hemodialysis; and (iii) patients on peritoneal dialysis do not require an extra dose.
Determination of busulfan in human plasma by gas chromatography with electron-capture detection

Abstract A simple and highly sensitive gas chromatographic method has been developed for the determination of busulfan in human plasma. After extraction of plasma specimens (clinical or spiked) with ethyl acetate, busulfan and the internal standard [1,8-bis (methanesulfonyloxy) octane] were derivatized with 2,3,5,6-tetrafluorothiophenol to yield compounds monitored by a 63Ni electron-capture detector. Sample recoveries from extraction and derivatization were greater than 78 and 91%, respectively. The limit of quantitation was 0.01 μg/ml (0.04μM) in 1 ml of plasma with a linear relationship over the 0.01–1.0μg/ml (0.04–4μM) concentration range. The method has been applied to analyze the plasma versus time profile of busulfan in human subjects following administration of an oral dose of 4 mg/kg per day as a marrow ablative chemotherapy for bone marrow transplantation.
Synchronization Stability in Coupled Oscillator Arrays: Solution for Arbitrary Configurations

The stability of the state of motion in which a collection of coupled oscillators are in identical synchrony is often a primary and crucial issue. When synchronization stability is needed for many different configurations of the oscillators the problem can become computationally intense. In addition, there is often no general guidance on how to change a configuration to enhance or diminsh stability, depending on the requirements. We have recently introduced a concept called the Master Stability Function that is designed to accomplish two goals: (1) decrease the numerical load in calculating synchronization stability and (2) provide guidance in designing coupling configurations that conform to the stability required. In doing this, we develop a very general formulation of the identical synchronization problem, show that asymptotic results can be derived for very general cases, and demonstrate that simple oscillator configurations can probe the Master Stability Function.
Breaking the expertise barrier: understanding activist strategies in science and technology policy domains

This article develops a classificatory framework for analyzing advocacy group strategy in S&T policy domains — an area of increasing citizen activism since the 1960s. In such domains, activists may be locked out by what I call the ‘expertise barrier’, which blocks those lacking specialized knowledge from full participation. This article argues that activists' strategies to break through the expertise barrier can be classified into four categories: deploying established expertise, introducing new kinds of facts, introducing new policy-making logics, and attacking bureaucratic rules. It suggests further that focusing research on these four categories can facilitate hypothesis generation and future avenues of inquiry, including comparison among advocacy challenges in diverse technical domains. To illustrate this framework, I present examples from activism in two areas: breast cancer research and patents on life forms. Copyright , Beech Tree Publishing.
Conceptual and Methodological Issues in Efficacy Research with Behaviorally Disordered Children

This article offers a brief treatment of three interrelated topics pertinent to the conduct of long-term follow-up evaluations of early intervention. Initially, a number of conceptual and methodological issues are presented that address the following questions: (a) What is it that constitutes sound efficacy data? and (b) What are the essential elements of experimental control in long-term treatment evaluation? In the second section, these two questions are answered by a specific example of long-term follow-up research conducted at the Regional Intervention Program, Nashville, Tennessee. Included in this section are experimental procedures and results obtained on 40 former clients who were studied at 3 to 9 years away from active treatment. In the final portion of this article, a personal perspective on future efficacy research is offered.
Processing materials in space - The history and the future

The development of materials processing in space, and some of the Soyuz, Apollo, Skylab, and Shuttle orbital materials experiments are reviewed. Consideration is given to protein crystal growth, electrophoresis, low-gravity isoelectric focusing, phase partitioning, a monodisperse latex reactor, semiconductor crystal growth, solution crystal growth, the triglycine sulfate experiment, vapor crystal growth experiments, the mercuric iodide experiment, electronic and electrooptical materials, organic thin films and crystalline solids, deep undercooling of metals and alloys, magnetic materials, immiscible materials, metal solidification research, reluctant glass-forming materials, and containerless glass formation. The space processing apparatuses and ground facilities, for materials processing are described. Future facilities for commercial research, development, and manufacturing in space are proposed.
Eco-friendly synthesis of high-quality polyaniline using a copper(II) scorpionate catalyst

High-quality polyaniline with conductivity reaching 5 S cm−1 has been prepared catalytically in acetonitrile using aniline, HCl, hydrogen peroxide, and 2 mol% of the copper catalyst methyl[tris(3-mesityl-1-pyrazolyl)borato]copper(II) chloride ([MeB(3-(Mes)Pz)3]CuCl). The use of CuCl2·2H2O catalyst instead of [MeB(3-(Mes)Pz)3]CuCl and the solvent effects were also investigated. Polyaniline samples were characterized using CHN analysis, UV-visible spectroscopy, FT-IR spectroscopy, bulk conductivity measurements, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Results of these mutually independent techniques are consistent and indicate the formation of good quality emeraldine form of polyaniline from the [MeB(3-(Mes)Pz)3]CuCl catalyzed reaction in acetonitrile. The conductivity of the polymer prepared using [MeB(3-(Mes)Pz)3]CuCl catalyst depends strongly on the medium of preparation which follows the order acetonitrile > 1 : 1 acetonitrile–water mixture > water. The polymer prepared using CuCl2·2H2O instead of [MeB(3-(Mes)Pz)3]CuCl in a 1 : 1 acetonitrile–water mixture is of relatively poor quality and has a lower conductivity. HCl is also important for the formation of better quality polyaniline and higher yield.
Microbial community analysis in incompletely or destructively sampled systems.

Analyses of microbial community dynamics are often constrained by the destructive, indirect, and incomplete nature of most sampling techniques. These methodological constraints compel assumptions that are rarely verified about the relationships among separate communities. We evaluated the consequences for community analysis of the common assumption that separate microbial communities are described by the same species abundance distribution. Sample data were generated from simulated communities in which the species abundance distributions were the same or were different. Samples from communities that had the same number of species or were described by the same species abundance distribution sometimes had significantly different numbers of species. Samples from simulated communities that had different species number-species abundance distribution combinations sometimes contained indistinguishable numbers of species. When sampling from independent communities described by unknown distributions (e.g., microbial communities on plant surfaces), the simulations showed that standardization of sample size (number of individuals or colony-forming units) does not guarantee samples of equal proportions of the total species in a community. Sample sizes that are logistically feasible for many microbial systems will provide only limited information for differentiating species numbers or species abundance distributions among separate communities over time. For ecologists studying destructively or incompletely sampled communities this seriously influences both the sample designs that are reasonable and the questions that can be addressed in such systems.
Simulation of Russian wheat aphid movement and population dynamics on preferred and non-preferred host plants☆

Abstract A computer simulation model was developed to investigate spatial and population dynamics of apterous Russian wheat aphids ( Diuraphis noxia ) on preferreed (wheat) and non-preferred (oat) hosts. The location, development, reproduction, movement, and mortality of individual aphids within a population were predicted at simulated one-day time steps. Reproductive rate and mortality were modeled as stochastic processes, which were functions of both aphid chronological age and host favorability. An index of host favorability wwas established for each plant in a 25× 25-plant grid containing wheat oats. Host favorability was dependent on host species and aphid density on that plant. Aphid movement was modeled as a stochastic process, with probability of movement dependent on insect age and host plant favorability. The distance moved was proportional to the density of aphids on the plant the aphid was leaving, with random direction of movement. The model was calibrated with data from experiments in which Stephens wheat or Border oat plants in growth chambers were infested with adult female aphids, and populations monitored after 0, 3, and 7 days. Ability of the model to predict observed populations and plant infestation after 14 and 21 days was then tested. Use of the model to generate predicted spatial patterns of aphids on differential hosts is discussed.
Impact of sex-role values on cognitive performance.

In a sample of 240 high school students cognitive performance differences related to sex, sex-role stereotype, and dissonance between perceived and ideal levels of masculinity/femininity were inves...
Declining egg viability explains higher hatching failure in a suburban population of the threatened Florida scrub-jay Aphelocoma coerulescens

Hatching failure occurs in approximately 10% of all avian eggs, but varies both within and among species. This reduction in viable offspring can have significant fitness consequences for breeding parents; therefore, it is important to understand which factors influence variation in hatching failure among populations. Previous research suggests that hatching failure is higher in a suburban than in a wildland population in the Florida scrub-jay. From 2003 to 2007, we performed two experiments to examine whether increased hatching failure in the suburbs resulted from 1) increased length of off-bouts during incubation (predation risk hypothesis, 2003–2004) or 2) increased exposure to ambient temperature during laying (egg viability hypothesis, 2005–2007). Hatching failure was higher for females that took fewer off-bouts, but the length of those off-bouts did not influence hatching failure. Thus, nest predation risk does not appear to explain higher hatching failure in the suburbs. Alternatively, hatching failure increased with increasing exposure of eggs to ambient conditions during the laying period. First-laid eggs in the suburbs had the greatest pre-incubation exposure to ambient temperature and the greatest rate of hatching failure, consistent with the egg viability hypothesis. Urbanization influences hatching failure through a series of complex interactions. Access to predictable food sources advances mean laying date in suburban scrub-jays, leading to larger clutch sizes. Because scrub-jays begin incubation with the ultimate egg, first-laid eggs in the suburbs may be exposed to ambient temperatures for longer periods, thus reducing their viability.
The absolute configuration and optical purity of (−)- and (+)-1,2:4,5-di-O-cyclohexylidene-myo-inositols

Abstract The absolute configurations of (−)- and (+)-1,2:4,5-di- O -cyclohexylidene- myo -inositol are derived as 1 d - and 1 l -1,2:4,5-di -O- cyclohexylidene -myo- inositols respectively, and are reverse of the most recent literature assignments.
A Novel Approach for Improving Column Flotation of Fine and Coarse Coal

Froth flotation, applied to the separation of solid particulates, has been practiced commercially for a long time in the coal and mineral industries. The potential benefits of establishing a deep froth, especially in column flotation have been shown by a number of researchers and that includes demonstrating that the froth phase is much more efficient at mineral upgrading than is the pulp phase. This approach could be useful in where the particles have difficulty in reporting from pulp phase to froth phase. Hence, it is expected that introduction of particles into the froth phase will significantly improve the grade and recovery of particles. In this article, a novel way of operating a flotation column was implemented, and the results were compared to those when operating the same column in the conventional fashion. Tests were conducted with both fine and coarse coals. Feeding into the froth zone enhances bubble-particle contact as observed by a higher product yield of 79.4% compared to a conventional colu...
Accelerated Weathering of Modified Wood Flour Plastic Composites

The effect of accelerated weathering on the chemical and color of wood plastic composites (WPC) made from modified pine wood fiber (control, extractives free and holocellulose) was investigated. WPC were produced from the various wood fibers (60%, weight) and high density polyethylene (40%, weight) as matrix were subjected to accelerated weathering in xenon-arc weatherometer for up to 1200 hours. This study aimed at getting a better understanding of the chemical changes that occur to weathered WPC relative to its material compositions (wood and plastic). Chemical analyses and color measurement of the weathered surface using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, pyrolysis gas chromatograph mass spectrometry and colorimetery showed that degradation of WPC had occurred, causing color changes. It was observed that WPC made from holocellulose wood fiber had the lowest color change compared to extractives free wood and control wood fiber based WPC.
An improved approximation for settling time of second-order linear systems

An improved approximate expression is developed for the settling time of a second-order linear system subjected to a step input. The new expression is more accurate than several existing approximate expressions. Furthermore, although it is slightly more complicated than one of the existing approximations, it is much more convenient to use than the other, which requires iteration for design application. Finally, it is noted that explicit results in dimensionless graphical form are given for the first time for the exact settling time versus damping ratio.
The local problem of God’s hiddenness: a critique of van Inwagen’s criterion of philosophical success

In regards to the problem of evil, van Inwagen thinks there are two arguments from evil which require different defenses. These are the global argument from evil—that there exists evil in general, and the local argument from evil—that there exists some particular atrocious evil X. However, van Inwagen fails to consider whether the problem of God’s hiddenness also has a “local” version: whether there is in fact a “local” argument from God’s hiddenness which would be undefeated by his general defense of God’s hiddenness. This paper will argue that van Inwagen’s present account contains no implicit response to the “local” argument from God’s hiddenness, and, worse, the “local” argument brings to the fore crucial inconsistencies in van Inwagen’s account. These inconsistencies concern van Inwagen’s criterion for philosophical success—his methodological use of an “ideal audience” in an ideal debate—and a crucial premise in his argument: namely, that people who do not believe in God are culpably deceiving themselves regarding the manifest presence of God. These considerations will be a platform for my arguing that the failures of van Inwagen’s account amount to his ignoring the extra-rational, concrete aspect of grasping “spiritual propositions”—propositions which, in order to be affirmed, require the full self-understanding which precipitates out of the mind, body, and will of a particular existing individual.
Attitudes about Violence and Involvement in Peer Violence among Youth: Findings from a High-Risk Community

Peer violence perpetration and victimization are the most common types of violence among youth. This study determined the associations among violent attitudes toward peers, involvement in peer violence perpetration, and experience with peer violence victimization among boys and girls in a high-risk, urban community. Analyses were based on data from the 2004 Youth Violence Survey, which was administered to over 80% of public school students in grades 7, 9, 11, and 12 (N = 4,131) in a disadvantaged, urban, school district in the USA. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to test the associations between attitudes in support of violence and involvement in violent behaviors. Results show that among youth, attitudes supporting boys hitting boys significantly increased the odds of peer violence perpetration after controlling for potential confounders (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 1.35; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07, 1.72). However, stratified analyses for boys and girls show that attitudes supporting boys hitting boys increased the odds of peer violence perpetration for girls only after controlling for potential confounders (AOR, 1.49; 95% CI = 1.05, 2.13). The findings demonstrate that there are important differences between boys and girls in terms of their associations with violent attitudes and involvement in actual violent behaviors. However, additional research is needed to determine how attitude modifications can be incorporated into youth violence prevention programs.
Tracking and communication in long-duration flights

Abstract Balloon location techniques have developed along the same lines as ship and aircraft navigation systems. Early NCAR balloon flights were located by sun angle measurements versus time and magnetic field measurement, much the same way that Captain Cook used to navigate his sailing vessel. Others have used radio systems developed for ship and aircraft location such as Omega, Loran, radio direction finding, Variable Omnidirectional Radio (VOR) and radar transponders.
A consideration of the hormonal basis and phosphate leak hypothesis of absorptive hypercalciuria.

Fifty patients with absorptive hypercalciuria (AH), 25 normal subjects (NS),and 25 nonhypercalciuric patients with stone disease (NHSF) were studied using an oral calcium tolerance test and 24–h urine collections on both a restricted and an unrestricted calcium intake. Mean (±SD) fasting fractional calcium excretion was increased in the patients with AH (2.7 ±1.1% us. 1.4 ± 0.6% in the NS; P < 0.001) and was negatively correlated with fasting nephrogenous cAMP, suggesting that this renal calcium leak was secondary to parathyroid suppression. Plasma 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25-(OH)2D] was elevated in 80% of patients with AH and was high normal in the remaining 20%. Ten patients, selected on the basis of results for 1,25- (0H)2D greater than 4 SD from the normal mean, displayed a particularly severe pattern of abnormalities, including mild hypercalcemia in two patients. Pooled data from the NS and patients with AH revealed a significant negative correlation between the plasma concentration of 1,25-(OH)2D ...
Proximity effect and Josephson tunnelling: application to high Tc films

Abstract The properties of Josephson junctions containing the proximity system S h -N (where S h is a high T c film and N is a normal film) are analysed. The amplitude of the Josephson current appears to be largest for the S h -N-I-S c junction (where S c is a conventional superconductor and I is an insulator). Junctions containing semiconductor films are promising for field effect applications.
Fungus exposure risks associated with animal care units.

Abstract To clarify the potential role of fungi as primary or associated allergens in animal care facilities, we have studied viable airborne fungus particle levels in animal rooms at the University of Michigan. Single plate collections were made with the Andersen sampler during winter months in 13 animal rooms each housing dogs, rabbits, or monkeys. Sequential samples on malt extract (MA) and Sabouraud dextrose (SAB) agar were obtained on every sampling occasion, and an outdoor sample on a nearby rooftop was made also on each sampling day. Recoveries of familiar allergenic fungi were low, in general, despite sporadically high counts of Penicillium species. Colony counts were significantly higher on MA than on SAB. Data analyses suggest that "clean" bedding material may have contributed the bulk of viable airborne particles encountered, that cleaning temporarily increased particle levels, and that the outdoor air spora contributed minimally to the indoor fungus load in the rooms studied. These findings imply that fungus exposure risks in animal rooms often are no greater than those encountered in other types of interiors. The contribution of fungi to the "allergic load" of animal handlers appears to be low.
Schistosoma mansoni: Analysis of cercarial transformation methods

Four methods of transforming cercariae to schistosomulae in vitro in ELAC buffer (pH 7.2, 37 C, 0-6 hr incubation) were compared in relation to biochemical and ultrastructural characteristics. The transformation methods used were chemical (3 mM linoleate), mechanical (centrifuge/vortex), mechanical/chemical, and heat (incubation at 37 C). Ultrastructural characteristics examined were based on the presence or absence of glycocalyx, heptalaminate membrane, cyton granules, and nuclear condition. Two EM fixation methods were used. Biochemical parameters assayed were loss of water tolerance (uptake of trypan blue dye), eicosanoid biosynthesis (PGE, LTB4, and 5-HETE), protein synthesis (leucine uptake), RNA synthesis (uracil and orotic acid uptake), and DNA synthesis (thymidine uptake). EM characteristics were remarkably similar for all transformation methods except heat incubation, with transformed cercariae evidencing the characteristics of schistosomulae (cyton granule migration, absence of glycocalyx and heptalaminate membrane); however, euchromatic nuclei could not be demonstrated using in vivo or in vitro transformation methods. Despite the ultrastructural similarities between transformation methods, biochemical data demonstrated that the resultant organisms were quite different. The chemical transformation method gave the highest rate of loss of water tolerance and eicosanoid production. RNA and protein synthesis were not correlated to ultrastructural changes and were highest in those organisms undergoing mechanical transformation methods, significantly higher than in those cercariae transformed by the chemical method. DNA synthesis was not demonstrated using any transformation method, although thymidine uptake did occur. Our data indicate substantial biochemical differences exist between morphologically similar organisms. Thus, experiments using any type of artificially transformed schistosomule must be interpreted with caution until additional biochemical and physiological studies on cercarial transformation are undertaken.
Airway Resistance, Airway Conductance, Specific Airway Resistance, and Specific Airway Conductance in Children

In 82 healthy children and in asthmatic children before and during positive allergen provocation test, airway resistance (Raw), airway conductance (Gaw), specific airway resistance (SRaw), and specific airway conductance (SGaw) were measured by body plethysmography during quiet breathing. Raw over total flow range (Raw t) and Raw at a flow rate of 0.5 liter/sec (Raw 0.5) are compared: Raw 0.5 is 10.3% smaller and shows a smaller coefficient of variation in healthy children. This is interpreted as a less important influence of variations of glottis opening. SRaw t mean value is 7.08 hPa . sec; SGaw t mean value is 0.141 hPa-1 . sec-1. In asthmatic children, Raw 0.5 proves to be a more sensitive parameter for the evaluation of inhalation provocation tests than Raw t. The most sensitive indices of obstruction in the central and more peripheral bronchi are SRaw 0.5 and SGaw 0.5.
Keeping quiet: a key role for dipeptidyl peptidase 2.

Comment on: Dipeptidyl Peptidase 2 is an essential survival factor in the regulation of cell quiescence.Deanna A. Mele, Pradeep Bista, Diana Velez Baez and Brigitte T. Huber. Cell Cycle 2009; 8:2425-34.
Synthesis of N-succinimidyl-2,4-dimethoxy-3-(tri-N-butylstannyl) benzoate via regio-specifically generated lithium 2,4-dimethoxy-3-lithiobenzoate

Abstract Lithium 2,4-dimethoxy-3-lithiobenzoate can be efficiently generated from 2,4-dimethoxy-3-bromobenzoic acid in THF at −100°C.
Consequences of epilepsy in the developing brain: Implications for surgical management

The developing brain is highly susceptible to seizures, as demonstrated by both human and animal studies. Until recently, the brain has been considered to be relatively resistant to damage induced by seizures early in life. Accumulating evidence in animal models now suggests that early seizures can cause structural and physiologic changes in developing neural circuits that result in permanent alterations in the balance between neuronal excitation and inhibition, deficits in cognitive function, and increased susceptibility to additional seizures. The disruption of normal neuronal activity by seizures can affect multiple developmental processes, resulting in these long-lasting changes. These data should be considered in the clinical approach to children with intractable epilepsy and suggest that early intervention may avoid some of these long-term neurologic deficits.
Mutual effects of cadmium and phosphate on their adsorption and desorption by goethite.

Abstract Adsorption of cadmium (Cd) and phosphate by oxides or soils has been extensively studied, but the adsorption/desorption kinetics and mutual effects of these two species in co-existing systems has received little attention. In this study, a batch equilibration method was used to investigate the effect of phosphate and its application time on Cd adsorption and desorption on goethite. The influence of Cd and its application time on phosphate sorption and desorption kinetics was also determined. For Cd adsorption, phosphate was introduced into the system by two sequences: pre-treating goethite at 40 °C for 1 week, and applying with Cd simultaneously. Similarly, for phosphate sorption, Cd was applied by pre-treating goethite at 40 °C for 1 week or simultaneous addition with phosphate. Results demonstrated that phosphate added to goethite enhanced Cd adsorption, and facilitated Cd release as compared to untreated goethite. Cadmium had slightly higher adsorption, but a significantly faster desorption rate from the goethite simultaneously treated with phosphate and Cd, as compared to phosphate-pretreated goethite. Cadmium and its application time had little impact on phosphate sorption by goethite. However, phosphate desorption kinetics was affected by Cd application time. When the sorption time was short (15 min), phosphate desorption was faster from the goethite that was simultaneously treated with phosphate and Cd, as compared to Cd pretreated or untreated goethite. In contrast, a longer sorption time (4 weeks) resulted in a higher desorption rate of phosphate from Cd pretreated goethite than simultaneously phosphate-Cd treated goethite. This study provided useful information on adsorption/desorption kinetics in complicated Cd-phosphate-goethite systems.
Community context and dropout rates

Abstract This paper explores the relationship between community characteristics and school dropout rates. The dropout level has reached crisis proportions in poor urban communities. This study examines the structural dimensions of communities that might induce or facilitate dropout. A large urban center with a total of 340 census tracts constitutes the sample; data are drawn from the 1980 census and from local schools.
Composing Contracts: An Adventure in Financial Engineering

Financial and insurance contracts--options, derivatives, futures, and so on--do not sound like promising territory for functional programming and formal semantics. To our delight, however, we have discovered that insights from programming languages bear directly on the complex subject of describing and valuing a large class of contracts. In my talk I will introduce a combinator library that allows us to describe such contracts precisely, and a compositional denotational semantics that says what such contracts are worth. In fact, a wide range programming-language tools and concepts--denotatinoal semantics, equational reasoning, operational semantics, optimisation by transformation, and so on--turn out to be useful in this new setting. Sleep easy, though; you do not need any prior knowledge of financial engineering to understand this talk!
Scaffolding project-based learning with the project management body of knowledge (PMBOK ® )

This paper reports the results of a study of the extent to which processes and procedures from the discipline of project management can scaffold online project-based learning in a graduate-level instructional technology course, by facilitating intra-team interaction, enhancing project outcomes and promoting a positive project team experience. With one course section using tools and templates from project management and one section using only free-form text forms and instructor guidelines as project scaffolding tools, team interactions were compared via qualitative and quantitative analyses of team threaded discussions over an 8-week project lifecycle. Project outcomes were assessed by comparing project product scores using the t-test for independent samples, while project experience was assessed via a post-project survey using the University of Wisconsin-Madison Student Assessment of Learning Gains (SALG) questionnaire. Results indicate that the project management methodology facilitates intra-team communication and positive collaborative behavior, but is not a critical factor for final product quality. The results provide a starting point for educators and researchers seeking to assess cross-disciplinary approaches to project-based learning.
Life with Ed: a case study of a linux BIOS/BProc cluster

In this paper, we describe experiences with our 127-node/161-processor Alpha cluster estbed, Ed. Ed is unique for two distinct reasons. First, we have replaced the standard BIOS on the cluster nodes with the Linux BIOS which loads Linux directly from non-volatile memory (Flash RAM). Second, the operating system provides a single-system image of the entire cluster, much like a traditional supercomputer. We will discuss the advantages of such a cluster, including time to boot (101 seconds for 100 nodes), upgrade (same as time to boot), and start processes (2.4 seconds for 15,000 processes). Additionally, we have discovered that certain predictions about the nature ofter a scale clusters, such as the need for hierrchical structure, are false. Finally, we argue that to achieve true scalability, terascale clusters must be built in the way of Ed.