cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
11 Condensed phases of inorganic materials: Ceramic systems

Publisher Summary Ceramic materials include oxides, nitrides, carbides, and borides. Many applications for these materials involve high temperatures where their chemical stability is critical. This chapter discusses the major techniques for thermodynamic studies of ceramic materials. The chapter describes gas equilibration, vapor pressure, and (emf) techniques and the major approaches used for obtaining thermodynamic quantities of ceramic materials. Knudsen cell-based methods have been extensively reviewed and are applied to ceramic materials. The Knudsen cell technique enables direct measurement of the component thermodynamic activities in a solid, from the component vapor pressures over that solid, is discussed in this chapter. First, general considerations in the Knudsen cell technique and then specific methods of vapor analysis are discussed in the chapter.
A temporal data-driven player model for dynamic difficulty adjustment

Many computer games of all genres pit the player against a succession of increasingly difficult challenges such as combat with computer-controlled enemies and puzzles. Part of the fun of computer games is to master the skills necessary to complete the game. Challenge tailoring is the problem of matching the difficulty of skill-based events over the course of a game to a specific player's abilities. We present a tensor factorization approach to predicting player performance in skill-based computer games. Our tensor factorization approach is data-driven and can predict changes in players' skill mastery over time, allowing more accurate tailoring of challenges. We demonstrate the efficacy and scalability of tensor factorization models through an empirical study of human players in a simple role-playing combat game. We further find a significant correlation between these performance ratings and player subjective experiences of difficulty and discuss ways our model can be used to optimize player enjoyment.
Long-term outcome of transcatheter patent ductus arteriosus closure using Amplatzer duct occluders.

Background Immediate-, short-, and intermediate-term results of percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure using Amplatzer duct occluders are excellent. However, long-term results have not yet been reported to date. Methods Between September 1996 and April 2002, 64 consecutive patients having isolated PDA with minimal diameter of ≥2 mm underwent percutaneous closure using Amplatzer duct occluders. All patients were included in this study and have been followed up until September 2005. Results Patients have been followed up from 40 to 108 months (median 58 months). The mean PDA diameter was 3.5 ± 1.6 mm. There were no deaths or significant complications during the study period. At a 1-month follow-up, all PDA were completely closed and remained closed thereafter. Conclusions Since the initial clinical experience in September 1996, the Amplatzer duct occluder has been proven as a safe and effective device for transcatheter PDA closure. Based on our experience, we believe that in patients having completely closed PDA with laminar blood flow pattern in the descending thoracic aorta and left pulmonary artery at a 1-year follow-up, there is no need for further evaluations. In contrast, few remaining patients need a careful follow-up until a complete normalization of all findings.
A handheld sensor assay for the identification of grouper as a safeguard against seafood mislabeling fraud

Abstract Increases in international trade and global seafood consumption, along with fluctuations in the supply of different seafood species, have resulted in fraudulent product mislabeling. Grouper species, due to their high demand and varied commercial availability, are common targets for mislabeling by exploiting inefficient inspection practices. Compounding this problem is the fact that there are currently 64 species of fish from eleven different genera allowed to be labeled “grouper” per U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines. This wide diversity makes it difficult for regulators to discern legally salable groupers from restricted species. To obviate taxonomic misidentification when relying on external phenotypic characteristics, regulatory agencies are now employing genetic authentication methods which typically offer species-level resolution. However, standard genetic methods such as DNA barcoding require technical expertise and long turnover times, and the required instrumentation is not amenable for on-site analysis of seafood. To obviate some of these limitations, we have developed a handheld genetic sensor that employs a real-time nucleic acid sequence-based amplification assay (RT-NASBA) previously devised in our lab, for the analysis of fish tissue in the field. The base RT-NASBA assay was validated using a lab-based, benchtop RNA purification method as well as non-portable, commercial RT-NASBA analyzer. Described herein, is an uncomplicated method for purifying RNA from fish tissue in the field, which had similar efficiency to the benchtop method demonstrated through direct comparisons. We have also demonstrated that the field sensor is only slightly less sensitive than the benchtop instrument, and could discern 80.3% of groupers (no target sequence available for three species) on the 2014 FDA Seafood List from potential impostors. The complete field assay requires fewer than 80 min for completion and can be performed outside of the lab in its entirety.
Rheumatic heart disease of historic interest with a 59-year followup.

A patient is presented who was treated by Osler for rheumatic pancarditis with pericardial effusion at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in 1894. A 59-year followup is presented, along with scrutiny of diagnostic methods and treatment in 1894 and some conclusions about medical care and recordkeeping considered pertinent to modern times.
Base induced additions of coordinated phosphines to acetylenes to give metal complexes of chelating diphosphine ligands

Abstract Reactions occur with [M(CO) 4 (PPh 2 H)(PPh 2 )] − (M — Cr, Mo) and [Mn(CO) 3 (PPh 2 H)(PPh 2 )Br] − (each generated from the corresponding bisphosphine metal carbonyl and BuLi at −78°C) and several acetylenes with electron-withdrawing substituents (MeOOCCCCOOMe, PhCCCOOEt, PhCCH) to give after protonation, moderate yields of complexes of chelating diphosphines. These reactions are believed to be a type of Michael addition, proceeding via carbanion intermediates. Several isomers are possible in these reactions depending on the orientation of the acetylene substituent groups. Trans -stereochemistry of the single product derived from the manganese complex and MeOOCCCCOOMe was determined from NMR data; this preference is likely a consequence of steric constraints.
Sequential study of arginine monochloride and normal saline as stimuli to growth hormone release

Plasma growth hormone (GH), immunoreactive insulin (IRI), and glucose concentrate were evaluated in five normal adult females and five normal adult males following infusion of saline and 0.5 Gm./Kg. of arginine monochloride. All individuals responded to arginine infusion with an increase in the IRI concentrations. Plasma glucose usually, but not always, increased with arginine infusion. Four of the five females and two of the five males responded to the initial infusion of arginine with a significant increase in plasma GH concentration. Two of the three nonresponding males subsequently responded when infused with the same amount of arginine, even without estrogen administration. Saline infusion was not associated with an increase in GH, IRI, or glucose concentrations. It is concluded (1) that saline is not a stimulus to GH release, (2) that arginine consistently increases IRI concentration, (3) that plasma glucose levels usually, but not invariably, increase with arginine infusion and (4) that some males have a variable GH response to arginine, which is independent of estrogen replacement.
Experimental infection of pigs with the newly identified swine hepatitis E virus (swine HEV), but not with human strains of HEV

A novel virus of pigs, swine hepatitis E virus (swine HEV), was recently identified and shown to be antigenically and genetically related to human HEV. In the present study, we attempted to infect specific-pathogen-free (SPF) pigs experimentally with swine HEV or with human strains of HEV. Serum samples collected from naturally infected pigs were used as the source of swine HEV. Pigs inoculated intravenously with serum samples containing swine HEV seroconverted to anti-HEV 4 to 8 weeks postinoculation, and the virus spread to an uninoculated pig. Swine HEV was detected in nasal and rectal swab materials as early as 2 weeks postinoculation and for 4 to 8 weeks thereafter. Viremia appeared 4 to 6 weeks postinoculation and lasted 1 to 3 weeks. The inoculated pigs appeared clinically normal and serum liver enzymes were not significantly elevated. In contrast, pigs were not infected when inoculated intravenously with about 105 monkey infectious doses of one of two human strains of HEV (Sar-55 or Mex-14).
Intelligent seismic inversion workflow for high-resolution reservoir characterization

Developing a geological model is the first and a very important step during the reservoir simulation and modeling process. The geological model usually represents our best interpretation of the reservoir characteristics that extends beyond the well where we have actual measurements (logs, core, well test, etc.). The only real measurement with a large areal extent that geoscientists have access to is seismic data. Therefore, using seismic data to populate the high-resolution geological model is becoming increasingly popular. Using reservoir characteristics at the wellbore as the control point helps geoscientists in measuring the goodness of the correlation they create between seismic data and well logs. This paper presents a unique approach in accomplishing this task. The uniqueness of this approach is based on the fact that (a) it reduces the complexity of the model building process by dividing a very complex problem into two slightly less complex problems (surface seismic to VSP and VSP to log-i.e., divide and conquer) and (b) it effectively employs a synthetic set of formations representing the actual sequence of geological layers in the field in order to build a model and learn from it, and then, apply the lessons learned to the model building process for the actual reservoir. The results show that this strategy proves to be successful.
Face-to-face versus computer-mediated discussion of teaching cases: Impacts on preservice teachers’ engagement, critical analyses, and self-efficacy

Abstract Two frequently-used discussion protocols were investigated as part of a program to implement teaching cases in undergraduate educational psychology classes designed for preservice teachers. One protocol involved synchronous face-to-face (FTF) discussion of teaching cases, which occurred in class after students had individually completed written case analyses as homework outside of class. The other was asynchronous computer-mediated (CM) discussion taking place outside of class, simultaneous to students’ completion of their written case analyses. Six class offerings of an undergraduate child development course taught by two instructors (three classes by each instructor) were randomly assigned within instructor in a quasi-experimental design to one of the three discussion conditions: FTF, CM, or no discussion of the cases across the semester. Findings indicated that both CM and FTF discussion conditions were associated with positive outcomes relative to the control condition. Both CM and FTF discussion related to higher cognitive–affective engagement with the cases than the control condition; and the CM discussion condition was associated with higher cognitive–affective engagement than FTF discussion. In contrast, FTF discussion, but not CM discussion, was associated with higher-than-control-condition case analysis ability at the end of the semester. Potential explanations for these findings and directions for future research are discussed.
CT of acute perianal abscesses and infected fistulae: a pictorial essay

Computed tomography (CT) is an effective, readily available diagnostic imaging tool for evaluation of the emergency room (ER) patients with the clinical suspicion of perianal abscess and/or infected fistulous tract (anorectal sepsis). These patients usually present with perineal pain, fever, and leukocytosis. The diagnosis can be easy if the fistulous tract or abscess is visible on inspection of the perianal skin. If the tract or abscess is deep, then the clinical diagnosis can be difficult. Also, the presence of complex tracts or supralevator extension of the infection cannot be judged by external examination alone. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the best imaging test to accurately detect fistulous tracts, especially when they are complex (Omally et al. in AJR 199:W43–W53, 2012). However, in the acute setting in the ER, this imaging modality is not always immediately available. Endorectal ultrasound has also been used to identify perianal abscesses, but this modality requires hands-on expertise and can have difficulty localizing the offending fistulous tract. It may also require the use of a rectal probe, which the patient may not be able to tolerate. Contrast-enhanced CT is a very useful tool to diagnose anorectal sepsis; however, this has not received much attention in the recent literature (Yousem et al. in Radiology 167(2):331–334, 1988) aside from a paper describing CT imaging following fistulography (Liang et al. in Clin Imaging 37(6):1069–1076, 2013). An infected fistula is indicated by a fluid-/air-filled soft tissue tract surrounded by inflammation. A well-defined round to oval-shaped fluid/air collection is indicative of an abscess. The purpose of this article is to demonstrate the usefulness of contrast-enhanced CT in the diagnosis of acute anorectal sepsis in the ER setting. We will discuss the CT appearance of infected fistulous tracts and abscesses and how CT imaging can guide the ER physician in the clinical management of these patients.
Syntelencephaly in an Infant of a Diabetic Mother

Here we report on an infant of a diabetic mother (IDM) with midline interhemispheric "fusion" (MIF), or syntelencephaly. This is a rare anomaly characterized by segmental failure of cleavage of the cerebral hemispheres and other brain structures in the posterior frontal and parietal regions, with a normal interhemispheric fissure anterior and posterior to the "fused" region. While there is obvious overlap with holoprosencephaly (HPE), this condition differs from HPE in that the midline "fusion" in MIF is complete but segmental, while the structural brain anomalies seen in the HPE spectrum progress smoothly in severity in a posterior to anterior "fusion." However, while it is apparent that there are key distinctions between MIF and HPE, in all likelihood they arise from a similar pathogenetic mechanisms. We therefore suggest that MIF is a distinct variant of the HPE spectrum of midline brain anomalies. Given the known increased incidence of HPE in IDMs, MIF is likely a maternal diabetes-associated malformation.
The mode of the laxative action of Phenolphthalein

1. Phenolphthalein is not an intestinal irritant as judged by the standards we have given. 2. That phenolphthalein acts directly on the muscle supported by the following facts: (a) Atropine which paralyzes the motor nerves of the intestine does not stop the cathartic action of phenolphthalein. (b) Phenolphthalein does not affect parasympa thetic nerves as judged by its effect of these nerves on the heart. (c) Drugs like eserine which stimulate the intestine through the nerves, also effect the vagus to the heart in a similar manner. 3. Barium or pituitrin, which act on musculature applied locally, effect the intestine in a manner similar to, but more markedly than phenolphthalein.
Submillimeter life positions of bacteria, protists, and metazoans in laminated sediments of the Santa Barbara Basin

To provide insights into the biogeochemistry of environments where steep chemical gradients place anaerobes, microaerophiles, and aerobes in close proximity, it might be necessary to survey biotic distributions on scales that are not possible using conventional ecological approaches. To overcome such limitations, we adapted sedimentological and cell biological methods to examine the life positions of microbes within sediments. This fluorescently labeled embedded core (FLEC) technique was used to survey the submillimeter distributions of eukaryotic nanobiota and meiofauna, plus co-occurring prokaryotes, inhabiting laminated sediments of the bathyal Santa Barbara Basin (SBB; 34°13'N, 120°02'W). Although SBB sediments were vertically structured on the scale of millimeters (i.e., as laminae), and microelectrode profiles suggested vertically distinct oxygenated and anoxic-sulfidic layers, the distributions of aerobes, microaerophiles, and sulfide-tolerant anaerobes were not concomitantly structured. Unprecedented associations were observed among microorganisms. For example, relatively deep in the sediments, where high sulfide concentrations were expected, flagellates were intimately associated with Beggiatoa. Ciliates were typically solitary, whereas flagellates were often aggregated in nearly monomorphotypic swarms of >3 × 104 mm-3. Such aggregations could significantly affect geochemical pore-water processes at scales <1 µl. Our observations indicate that a mosaic of chemically heterogeneous microhabitats exist in both vertical and horizontal dimensions, suggesting that biogeochemical processes in the SBB are more complex than predictions based on standard biotic assessments and microelectrode profiling.
MEASUREMENT OF POSSIBILISTIC HISTOGRAMS FROM INTERVAL DATA

Abstract Measurement methods are a central requirement for the semantic grounding of any mathematical systems theory. Therefore possibility theory, as a branch of General Information Theory (git), requires objective measurement methods to extend its agenda and applications beyond the fuzzy theory from which it emerged. General measuring devices, when defined on intervals of R, yield empirical random intervals which, when consistent, yield possibility distributions as their plausibilistic traces. These empirical possibility distributions are called possibilistic histograms, and are fuzzy intervals. Their continuous approximations, even for very small sample sizes, yield the the standard fuzzy interval forms commonly used in fuzzy system applications.
An inventory of global N2O emissions from the soils of natural terrestrial ecosystems

Abstract We develop an inventory of global N2O emissions from natural ecosystem soils using an artificial neural network approach and field observational data of N2O fluxes. We estimate that the global soil N2O source strength from natural ecosystems is 3.37 Tg (1 Tg = 1012 g) N per year with an uncertainty ranging from 1.96 to 4.56 Tg N per year in 2000. While our global estimate is lower than other existing estimates, the spatial patterns of our simulated N2O emissions agree with other existing studies. There was a large spatial and seasonal variability in the soil N2O emissions due to the variation in soil type, vegetation and climate conditions. Consistent with other studies, we confirm that warm and moist tropical soils are the major source of atmospheric N2O. As a result of the low temperatures, the high latitude ecosystems have significantly low emission rates and contribute little (less than 0.10 Tg N per year) to the global N2O source. The simulated annual global N2O emissions are found to be most sensitive to variation in precipitation. This study uses the most current available data for N2O fluxes and their associated environmental variables to quantify the global N2O emissions, and provides an independent global inventory of this important trace gas, which will facilitate future studies of atmospheric chemistry and climate feedbacks at the global scale.
Eye Movement Activity during Sleep and Intellectual Function in Mental Retardation

A positive relation was found between the amount of eye movement during rapid-eye-movement or paradoxical sleep and estimates of intellectual level in a group of retarded adults. This result supports the hypothesis that during sleep the brain carries out processes important for cognitive function.
The Rankwise Distributed Multipole Analysis (RWDMA) of the Electrostatic Field of Large Biomolecules

Electrostatic interactions play an essential role in many molecular processes in living organisms. However, given the large size of the macromolecules typically involved in such processes, the accurate representation of the electrostatic potential is difficult to achieve in simple and computationally efficient ways. Among the methods used to reduce the complexity of such models, the multipolar expansions provide a systematic method to separate essential features of the electrostatic field according to spatial scale. Yet, the dependence of the multipole moments on the center of expansion makes the method ambiguous and the accuracy unreliable. We present the Rankwise Distributed Multipole Analysis (RWDMA) method, which removes the ambiguity associated with the center of expansion and, at the same time, provides a recursive minimization of the truncation error of the multipole expansion. We illustrate the method with the example of the electrostatic potential generated by the histone core of a nucleosome complex.
Convergence of memory gradient methods

In this paper we present a new class of memory gradient methods for unconstrained optimization problems and develop some useful global convergence properties under some mild conditions. In the new algorithms, trust region approach is used to guarantee the global convergence. Numerical results show that some memory gradient methods are stable and efficient in practical computation. In particular, some memory gradient methods can be reduced to the BB method in some special cases.
Propagation of Step-Function Light Pulses in a Resonant Medium

A combined analytical and numerical analysis of the propagation of a step-function light pulse in a resonant medium is presented. It is found that the light pulse evolves into a steady-state amplitude-modulated wave train very closely approximated by the Jacobian elliptic function $\mathcal{E}=1.25 {\mathcal{E}}_{0}dn[(\frac{1}{\ensuremath{\tau}})(t\ensuremath{-}\frac{z}{V}); \ensuremath{\lambda}]$, where the modulus of the elliptic function $\ensuremath{\lambda}$ is equal to $\frac{4}{5}$ and ${\mathcal{E}}_{0}$ is the amplitude of the input pulse. This result is consistent with an earlier analysis which showed that the elliptic $\mathrm{dn}$ function represented one of two classes of functions which satisfy the equations of resonant-pulse propagation and correspond to the distortionless propagation of an amplitude-modulated wave train through an inhomogeneously broadened medium. Expressions for the period, velocity, and parameter $\ensuremath{\tau}$ of the elliptic function are found as functions of the intensity of the input pulse. The form of the steady-state wave train is found to be the same in either an attenuating or amplifying medium. It is found that the velocity of the pulse train becomes significantly less than the speed of light when the density of energy that can be stored in the resonant atoms becomes an appreciable fraction of the energy density of the electromagnetic field. The conditions necessary for observing the amplitude-modulated pulse train in gaseous S${\mathrm{F}}_{6}$ and Na vapor are discussed.
Chapter 2 in Hemingway's IN OUR TIME

Ernest Hemingway was known to mix the facts of his life, and the lives of those around him, with the fiction in his novels and stories. 1 While working as a foreign correspondent for the Toronto Da...
Neurocognitive impairment in HIV-infected individuals with previous syphilis

Cognitive impairment is common in HIV-infected individuals, as is syphilis. Treponema pallidum, the bacterium that causes syphilis, invades the central nervous system early in disease. We hypothesized that HIV-infected patients with a history of syphilis or neurosyphilis would have more cognitive impairment than HIV-infected individuals without these infections. Eighty-two of 1574 enrollees in CHARTER, a prospective, observational study, had reactive serum rapid plasma reagin (RPR) tests. They were matched to 84 controls with non-reactive RPR by age, gender, ethnicity and HIV risk factor. Participants underwent comprehensive neuropsychological (NP) evaluations. RPR results were confirmed and serum fluorescent treponemal antibody absorption (FTA-ABS) test reactivity determined at a central laboratory. Sera from 101 of 166 participants were FTA-ABS reactive, indicating past or current syphilis. Among the 136 individuals without confounding conditions, compared with patients who had never had syphilis, those with prior syphilis had a greater number of impaired NP test domains (1.90 SD [1.77] versus 1.25 [1.52], P = 0.03), a higher global deficit score (0.47 [0.46] versus 0.31 [0.33], P = 0.03), and more were impaired in the NP learning domain (36 [42.9%] of 84 versus 13 [25.0%] of 52, P = 0.04). These effects of prior syphilis remained after controlling for education and premorbid intelligence.
Antioxidants and physical performance

Performance of strenuous physical activity can increase oxygen consumption by 10- to 15-fold over rest to meet energy demands. The resulting elevated oxygen consumption produces an "oxidative stress" that leads to the generation of free radicals and lipid peroxidation. A defense system of free radical scavengers minimizes these dangerous radicals. Indirect measurements of free radicals generated during exercise include assessing products of lipid peroxidation that appear in the blood (e.g., malondialdehyde and conjugated dienes) or expired in the breath (pentane). Changes in antioxidant scavengers and associated enzymes (e.g., glutathione, tocopherol, glutathione peroxidase) also provide clues about demands on the defense system. Physical training has been shown to result in an augmented antioxidant system and a reduction in lipid peroxidation. Supplementation with antioxidants appears to reduce lipid peroxidation but has not been shown to enhance exercise performance. The "weekend athlete" may not have the augmented antioxidant defense system produced through continued training. This may make them more susceptible to oxidative stress. Whether athletes or recreational exercisers should take antioxidant supplements remains controversial. However, it is important that those who exercise regularly or occasionally ingest foods rich in antioxidants.
The E.R. Game

This is a digital board game designed as an entertaining educational tool. Adapted from “MONOPOLY,” the board appears on the computer screen and the players roll digital dice and their game piece moves appropriately. The space landed on will have a category assigned and produce a question from that category. Correctly answering the question gives ownership of the space and awarding of points. Players subsequently landing on the space must answer another question from the category or lose equivalent points. The game proceeds until one player has circled the board three times or any player reaches preset point total. The game is designed to import questions from a digital question bank that the end-user can edit. The game provides referenced explanation of erroneous choices.
Involuntary belief and the command to have faith

Richard Swinburne argues that belief is a necessary but not sufficient condition for faith, and he also argues that, while faith is voluntary, belief is involuntary. This essay is concerned with the tension arising from the involuntary aspect of faith, the Christian doctrine that human beings have an obligation to exercise faith, and the moral claim that people are only responsible for actions where they have the ability to do otherwise. Put more concisely, the problem concerns the coherence of the following claims: (1) one cannot have faith, (2) one has an obligation to have faith, and (3) ought implies can. To solve this dilemma, I offer three solutions that I believe have the philosophical resources to demonstrate the consistency of these claims. Thus, I defend the claim that it is logically possible for a person to be culpable for an involuntary failure to have faith in God.
Organizational Change, Informal Learning, and Adaptation: Emerging Trends in Training and Continuing Education

(1995). Organizational Change, Informal Learning, and Adaptation: Emerging Trends in Training and Continuing Education. The Journal of Continuing Higher Education: Vol. 43, No. 1, pp. 2-11.
The aging of nuclei in a binary mixture

Abstract A theory of nucleation for a metastable binary mixture is developed, based on the Cahn-Hilliard theory of phase separation. It is shown that at least in its intermediate stages the transition from a supersaturated state to an energetically favored separated state follows the typical mechanism of surface tension governed nucleation processes and long-time similarity solutions describing the distribution of nuclei are found, analagous to the results of Lifshitz et al. It is shown that spatially uniform nucleation is destabilized by diffusion and the modifications to the nucleation process due to spatial inhomogeneity are found.
39Ar recoil losses and presolar ages in Allende inclusions

Ar analyses are reported for five coarse-grained, Ca-Al-rich inclusions from the Allende meteorite. The samples were neutron-irradiated in individual evacuated ampoules, and the Ar gas in the ampoules as well as the samples was analyzed. A large fraction (up to 60%) of the ^(39)Ar from ^(39)K (n, p) reactions was lost out of the inclusions into the ampoules. The ^(39)Ar losses resulted in substantial increases in the apparent ^(40)Ar-^(39)Ar ages of the samples. ^(39)Ar recoil loss during neutron-irradiation is a major effect and must be accounted for in ^(40)Ar-^(39)Ar dating. All of the Allende inclusions studied contained substantial trapped ^(36)Ar. The origin of the trapped ^(36)Ar is unknown, and the possible presence of trapped ^(40)Ar cannot be excluded. Ar measurements on Allende inclusions which have yielded anomalously old ages must be re-examined in the context of ^(39)Ar recoil loss and possible contributions of trapped ^(40)Ar. Allende inclusions appear on both accounts to be poor candidates to search for relicts of presolar materials with well-defined K/Ar ages.
Regulation of Tension in the Skinned Crayfish Muscle Fiber : II. Role of Calcium

Tension outputs were measured in skinned crayfish muscle fibers exposed to solutions variously buffered for both Mg-adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and Ca. Two types of data are shown, relating tension and substrate concentration with different levels of Ca present, or tension and calcium concentration at different levels of substrate. The data are fitted by curves calculated from a general equation for substrate inhibition. The equation is based on the schema that both tension and relaxation are induced by the substrate and that the relaxing effect of excess substrate is repressed by calcium. The physiological findings of the present work are similar to data obtained by others on biochemical model systems of the contractile proteins.
Differential Effects of Isoflurane on Mutant Cardiac IKs Channels

The slow delayed-rectifier potassium (IKs) channel mediates repolarization of the cardiac action potential, and its dysfunction can lead to the long QT syndrome (LQTS). The IKs channel consists of two subunits, the pore-forming α-subunit, KCNQ1, and the auxiliary β-subunit, KCNE1. Volatile anesthetics have significant inhibitory effects on the IKs current, but their underlying molecular mechanism remains to be determined. We have previously shown that F340 was a critical residue involved in this interaction, similar to the observation reported for other putative IKs antagonists. In order to further elucidate this mechanism, we investigated the effects of a volatile anesthetic, isoflurane, on mutant constructs of the IKs channel. Two KCNQ1 mutants, A341C and A344C, were constructed by site-directed mutagenesis. These two residues were chosen due to their vicinity to F340, and to their roles in inherited LQTS. Whole-cell current was recorded from transiently transfected HEK-293 cells in the absence and presence of isoflurane (0.52 ± 0.01 mM). Isoflurane inhibited wild-type- (WT) KCNQ1 by 62.1 ± 1.9% (mean±SEM, n=9). This inhibition was significantly attenuated when WT-KCNQ1 was cotransfected with WT-KCNE1 (40.7 ±4.5%; n=9). In contrast, isoflurane inhibited the mutant A344C current by 25.5 ± 2.0% (n=13), but this inhibition was not affected by the cotransfection with WT-KCNE1 (26.3 ± 3.2%, n=13). The A341C mutant alone did not express any current. However, when A341C was cotransfected with WT-KCNE1, an IKs-like current was elicited that was inhibited by isoflurane by 63.1 ± 2.9% (n =11). These results show that in addition to F340, the A341 and A344 residues also contribute to the anesthetic binding environment. Furthermore, the differential impact of KCNE1 on the isoflurane effects on WT-KCNQ1 and the mutant constructs suggests a complex role for the β-subunit in modulating the pharmacology of the IKs channel.
Specificity of resistance to tuberculosis and to salmonellosis stimulated in mice by oil-treated cell walls.

SummaryCoating with oil, which was essential to render cell walls of BOG protective to mice against challenge with tubercle bacilli by aerosol, has been found not to affect the specificity of reactions conditioned by cell walls in this and other systems. When the interval between vaccination and challenge was short (24 hours), mice were protected against heavy intravenous challenge with M. tuberculosis principally by nonspecific factors; after a 30-day interval, protection appeared to depend upon a mixture of specific and nonspecific effects.
Golden parachutes and shark repellents and shareholders' interests: Some new evidence

Abstract In this paper we test for the motives for adopting golden parachutes and Anti-Takeover Amendments (ATAs). Firms that exhibited financial characteristics that were associated with a greater probability of hostile raids were also more likely to adopt golden parachutes or ATAs. We also find evidence to support the hypothesis that the adoption of golden parachutes and poison pills may in fact complement each other.
GABAergic neurons that pioneer hippocampal area CA1 of the mouse: morphologic features and multiple fates.

Dramatic changes occur in the expression of glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD67) immunoreactivity in mouse hippocampus during postnatal development. Most striking is the presence of a dense population of immunopositive cells in stratum radiatum and stratum oriens in area CA1 during the first postnatal week. Between days 5 and 10, these cells disappear and the GAD67 immunoreactivity begins to resemble that of adulthood. These neurons are considered pioneer cells, and studies were undertaken to determine their fate. Between days 5 and 50, area CA1 doubles in size; however, the loss of cells expressing GAD67 mRNA cannot be explained solely by dilution resulting from hippocampal growth. In stratum radiatum, cell loss is particularly dramatic. Although between days 5 and 15, many cells seem to migrate from stratum radiatum to its border with stratum lacunosum-moleculare, both fate maps of pioneer cells labeled with bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) on embryonic day 13 (E13) and in situ DNA end-labeling studies suggest that some cells die by means of programmed cell death. However, not all pioneer cells die, because many cells labeled with BrdU on E13 are present in adulthood and express markers for and have anatomic features of hippocampal interneurons. In conclusion, events that underlie the age-dependent disappearance of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) -ergic pioneer cells are complex and cannot be completely explained by dilution in an expanding neuropile. Although some GABAergic pioneer cells likely undergo programmed cell death during the first postnatal weeks, others relocate within hippocampal laminae and terminally differentiate into the interneurons of adulthood. J. Comp. Neurol. 439:176–192, 2001. © 2001 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Irreversibility and existence of entropy

Abstract The existence of entropy as a state function is established. This is shown for reversible and irreversible systems and processes, irrespective of the constitutive equations of the systems. In the case of a reversible system, entropy is a function of the deformation gradients (strains) and temperature; in the case of an irreversible system it is also a function of n internal variables necessary to describe the irreversibility of the system. The existence of internal energy and the validity of the first law of thermodynamics are assumed. The existence of entropy then follows as a consequence of the integrability of the differential form of the first law using an extended form of the Caratheodory conjecture, to the effect that in the neighborhood of a thermodynamic state there exist other states which are not accessible by processes which are reversible and adiabatic.
Replication of poliovirus in primate cell cultures maintained under anaerobic conditions.

Abstract Poliovirus, Type 1 (Mahoney strain), was shown to replicate in HeLa cells maintained anaerobically. While the latent period of virus development under anaerobic conditions compared to aerobic conditions was increased, the yield of virus per destroyed cell was similar. Infection by poliovirus did not significantly alter either oxygen consumption by HeLa cells maintained aerobically, or anaerobic acid production until cytopathology was evident. Absence of oxygen did not affect absorption of poliovirus by cells.
A Metrics Suite for Static Structure of Large-Scale Software Based on Complex Networks

In order to overcome the limitations of traditional software metrics and meet the urgent demand in large- scale software development, in this study we constructed the static structure model for large-scale software by structural mapping and visualization. In particular, through application of the complex networks theory, we proposed a two-dimension metrics suite based on complex networks parameters from the perspective of software engineering. The feasibility and validity of the metrics were testified through statistical analyzing the data from a set of software projects; and these experiments show that the metrics suite can not only uncover the features of software structure such as scale free, small world, but also can get some latent rules about design and structure. These features can be conveniently used by designers and developers to understand the system, to control complexity and to improve process.
When Practice Matters More Than Government Plans: A Network Analysis of Local Emergency Management

This study examines the disparity between formal plans and actual networks in practice for emergency services in a local government setting. This study found that the accuracy of participants'colle...
Ultrasonography of the urinary bladder

Ultrasonography of the urinary bladder has evolved with improvements in ultrasound instrumentation. The bladder may be visualized transabdominally, transurethrally, and transrectally. Bladder tumors may be accurately staged. Postvoiding residual urine may be measured accurately and noninvasively. As newer indications are evaluated, including ultrasound imaging of the bladder during urodynamic studies, ultrasound of the bladder will be performed more readily by urologists.
Sedimentation and fluidization in solid‐liquid systems: A simple approach

Nouvelle methode de prediction de la relation entre la vitesse de la particule et la porosite de la suspension, a tous les nombres de Reynolds. Elle est basee sur l'utilisation de la relation entre le coefficient de trainee et le nombre de Reynolds pour une particule seule et sur l'utilisation de la densite et de la viscosite de la suspension. Cette methode est applicable aux systemes comportant plusieurs types de particules
Statistical analysis of 2AFC contrast threshold measurements

Most prior 2AFC experiments have been designed using a small number of signal strengths with many scenes for each strength. Percent correct is then computed for each level and fit to the assumed psychometric function. However, this introduces error because the signal strengths of individual responses are shifted. An alternative approach is to compute the statistical likelihood as a function of the threshold and width of the psychometric response curve. The best fit is then determined by finding the threshold and width that maximize the likelihood. In this paper, we discuss a method for analyzing 2AFC observer responses using maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) techniques. The logit model is used to represent the psychometric function and derive the likelihood. A conjugate gradient search algorithm is then used to find the maximum likelihood. The method is illustrated using human observer results from a previous study while statistical characteristics of the method are examined using simulated response data. The human observer results show that the psychometric function varies between observers and from test to test. The simulations show that the variance of the threshold and width exhibit a 1/Nobs relationship (σ=1.5201*Nobs-0.5236), where Nobs is the number of observations made in a 2AFC test ranging from 10 to 30000. The variance of the human observer data was in close agreement with the simulations. These results indicate that the method is robust over a wide range of observations and can be used to predict human responses. The results of the simulations also suggest how to minimize error in future studies.© (2005) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Early experience with sirolimus in lung transplant recipients with chronic allograft rejection

Abstract Background: Chronic lung allograft rejection, commonly manifest as obliterative bronchiolitis (OB/BOS), hinders long-term survival after lung transplantation (LT). OB/BOS is traditionally treated with augmented immunosuppression and results in short-term stabilization in pulmonary function for most patients. However, peribronchiolar fibroproliferation and airway obstruction usually recur despite initial improvements seen with increases in immunosuppression. In this observational, uncontrolled study, the effect of sirolimus, a novel immunosuppressant with anti-proliferative activity, was assessed in LT patients with OB/BOS. Methods: Between June 1999 to November 2000, LT recipients with newly diagnosed or progressive OB/BOS received sirolimus in combination with a calcineurin inhibitor (CI) and prednisone. Pulmonary function, laboratory data and adverse effects were monitored for the first 24 weeks of therapy. Results: Sirolimus was utilized in 12 LT recipients with OB/BOS. After drug initiation, 58% of patients required a reduction in CI dose to maintain appropriate CI trough concentrations. Despite CI dose reduction, serum creatinine rose in 75% of patients. Unexpected adverse effects included anemia of chronic disease (100%), edema (50%) and malignancy (17%). For the group, the rate of change in FEV 1 and FEF 25%-75% was unchanged with sirolimus, but individual responses varied. Conclusions: For the group, the decline in pulmonary function was not affected by the addition of sirolimus. However, among individuals with rapidly declining pulmonary mechanics, sirolimus resulted in stabilization or improvement in pulmonary function. Significant adverse effects resulted from combination sirolimus plus CI therapy. Until optimal dosing strategies and a more complete adverse effect profile are established, combination therapy should be utilized cautiously in these patients.
New therapeutic strategies for the treatment and prevention of head and neck cancer

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is an aggressive epithelial malignancy that is now the sixth most common neoplasm in the world today. Approximately 50,000 cases in the United States and more than 500,000 cases worldwide will be diagnosed in 2000 [1]. Despite numerous advances in treatment utilising the most recent protocols for surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, the long-term survival has remained at less than 50% over the past 40 years [2]. This poor long-term survival is due to a number of variables including delayed diagnosis as well as the frequent development of multiple primary tumours. Therefore, in addition to early detection, continued emphasis must be placed on preventing the development of new primaries as well as establishing more effective treatments for individuals who present with advanced disease. This review will summarise some of the recent advances in the realms of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. In addition, it will discuss the present status of chemoprevention in H...
Postlarval changes in the external morphology of dactyl setae in the kelp crab, Pugettia producta (Randall)

Morphological changes, which include growth, encrustation, and abrasion, occur in the sensory setae and nonsensory denticles located on the dactyls of the walking legs during the postlarval development of the kelp crab, Pugettia producta (Randall). The growth of the denticles is isometric (slope approx.1), while the growth of the setae is negatively allometric (slope < 1), relative to the growth of the dactyls. The increase in the sizes of the setae, but not of the denticles, appears to slow before growth stops at maturation, when molting ceases. The most striking morphological changes in the setae occur after maturation. While the setae of all but recently molted juvenile crabs are heavily encrusted by epibionts, the dactyls of most mature crabs are clean, and both the setae and denticles are so abraded that only their bases remain. The consequences of these morphological changes are discussed in relation to the sensory capabilities of a long-lived, nonmolting majid crab.
Transforming science curricula in higher education: Feminist contributions

Feminist contributions to the science curricula in higher education constitute invaluable but often overlooked resources for truly effective communication about science. Here I share a sampling of feminist science studies and discuss the origins of this effort to create inclusive and less biased science curricula that serve all students and citizens. Challenges from scientists center on assumptions and values about the appropriate relationship between science and politics, while challenges from educators extend to assumptions about how science has been taught. Currently, national and local curriculum transformation efforts are producing useful insights and materials.
IN UTERO MAGNESIUM EXPOSURE: RISK OF DEATH AND OF INTRAVENTRICULAR HEMORRHAGE (IVH) IN VERY LOW BIRTH WEIGHT (VLBW) INFANTS. • 1336

IN UTERO MAGNESIUM EXPOSURE: RISK OF DEATH AND OF INTRAVENTRICULAR HEMORRHAGE (IVH) IN VERY LOW BIRTH WEIGHT (VLBW) INFANTS. • 1336
Basalt-seawater interaction: trace element and strontium isotopic variations in experimentally altered glassy basalt

Abstract Potassium, Rb and Sr contents and 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ratios of basalt glass are greatly modified during experimental alteration by seawater at temperatures of 150–300°C, water/rock mass ratios of 10–125, and 500 bar pressure. In all experiments K and Rb are leached from the rock in amounts which are a function of the temperature of interaction. The water/rock ratio, however, plays a less significant role in the mobility of K and Rb. In contrast, Sr is removed from seawater during interaction with basalt glass and enriched in calcic alteration phases. Concomitantly, interaction with seawater ( 87 Sr/ 86 Sr= 0.70920) increases the Sr isotopic composition of the glassy basalt, from an initial magmatic value of 87 Sr/ 86 Sr= 0.70260, to values of 87 Sr/ 86 Sr= 0.70512–0.70842. Strontium isotopic variation and trace element mobility documented during this investigation is similar, in many respects, to that inferred from studies of greenstones dredged from mid-ocean ridges, and metabasalts from ophiolites.