cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Sub-Balanced Data and the Mixed Analysis of Variance

Abstract In the mixed model, it is well known that balanced data are a sufficient condition for an ANOVA with terms that are independent multiples of chi-squared variables (called a proper ANOVA). In this article a weaker condition, which is both necessary and sufficient, is determined and shown to be equivalent to what is defined here as sub-balanced random effects, a condition easily checked in practice. The usual method of generating an ANOVA by fitting sums of squares for a given ordering of the effects in the model is sometimes inadequate with sub-balanced data, requiring instead a spectral decomposition of the covariance matrix. An example is given.
Hubbard versus Peierls and the Su-Schrieffer-Heeger model of polyacetylene

We have considered the competing effects of the electron-electron Hubbard repulsion and the electron-phonon interaction on the properties of a one-dimensional electron gas both within perturbation theory and by exact numerical solution of finite-length rings. We find that the perturbation-theory results provide a qualitatively correct description of the system over a considerable range of parameters. Among the more interesting conclusions we draw is that, so long as the repulsion $U$ is less than a critical value which depends on the strength of the electron-phonon interaction, the predictions of the Su-Schrieffer-Heeger model of polyacetylene are not profoundly affected by the electron-electron repulsion. A small splitting between the charged and neutral soliton-creation energies and minor shape changes are the principle effects.
Density Functional Study of Platinum(II)-Mediated Bicyclization of 1,6-Dienylphenols

Density functional studies of the cyclization of a 1,6-dienylphenol by a Pt(II)-pincer complex were performed to better understand the mechanism of the bicyclization reaction. Of the four different diastereomers of the reaction's final product, the isomer resulting from the chairlike transition state that places the activated alkene in a pseudo-equatorial orientation was found to be the most stable, in agreement with experimental observations. The study of reaction mechanism concludes that the bicyclization proceeds in the presence of base via a concerted path with no significant barrier, while the stepwise path involving a discrete carbocationic intermediate seems less favorable.
Potamogeton crispus – The Other Invader

ABSTRACT Potamogeton crispus (Curlyleaf-pondweed) is an exotic macrophyte which has been introduced to the North American continent in the last century. P. crispus often grows to nuisance proportions at the expense of native macrophyte communities. A summary of available literature on P. crispus plus original data are presented to improve the understanding of this exotic and and in lake improvement projects. Topics include the life cycle of P. crispus is broken into sections covering the annual cycle of growth, reproduction, senescence and germination; environmental conditions associated with growth such as water quality, substrate characteristics and physical water conditions; nutrient dynamics of P. crispus covering the accumulation and concentration of nutrients found in P. crispus tissue; growth rate and biomass production; and various macrophyte control measures.
Composites of plasma surface functionalized barium titanate nanoparticles covalently attached to epoxide matrices: synthesis and evaluation.

Inorganic/organic nanocomposites consisting of surface functionalized barium titanate (BTO) nanoparticles covalently bonded to epoxy polymeric matrices are described. A plasma-enhanced CVD process was employed to functionalize the particle surfaces with reactive amine groups. Subsequently, these modified particles were reacted with an epoxide monomer to synthesize the final nanocomposites, containing particle loadings ranging from 1 to 5 weight percent. Control samples, containing unmodified BTO, were also synthesized under identical reaction conditions and particle loading. The resultant nanocomposites were characterized spectroscopically and microscopically, and their physical and thermal properties were evaluated. The results obtained reveal a more uniform distribution of the surface modified BTO in the composites relative to that observed with the unmodified particles. Additionally, the physical and thermal properties of the nanocomposites containing the plasma modified particles were determined to be...
CARDIAC PACING LEADS

Many of the advances that have been seen in the last decade concerning the functionality, size, and longevity of cardiac pacemakers have depended on concomitant advances in cardiac pacing leads. The current state of affairs of cardiac pacing leads is quite good in that leads have excellent electrical properties and appear to be more resistant to the hostile environment into which the lead is placed. Despite this, the goal of a perfect lead remains elusive, and there continue to be many challenges in lead design. The components of a cardiac pacing lead are (1) a connector, (2) the conductor or conductors, (3) insulating materials, (4) the electrode or electrodes, and (5) the fixation mechanism. Although each of these is reviewed, the emphasis of this article is on the advances in the functional component of the lead that govern sensing and pacing.
Enhancing Hardware Design Flows with MyHDL

MyHDL is a Python based HDL that harnesses the power and versatility of Python for hardware development. MyHDL has excellent simulation capabilities and also allows for conversion to Verilog and VHDL, so developers can enter a conventional design flow as desired. Verilog and VHDL are used extensively, particularly because most synthesis tools only support these two languages. However, they are simply outdated; poor parameterization limits high level design and modern abstraction features such as classes are missing. On the other hand, MyHDL has great support for parameterization. However, MyHDL did not have support for converting code that used attributes, so abstraction was limited. We extended MyHDL support to include attribute conversion. We explored methods for abstracting interfaces between components and hardware-software interfaces. The result is increased code reuse, simplified module declaration, and reduced boilerplate. These extensions result in streamlining between design, simulation, and a final synthesizable hardware, thus reducing limitations on high level development and making MyHDL an even more powerful design environment for rapid hardware prototyping.
Integrating dynamic energy budgets into matrix population models

Population dynamics depend on the growth and reproduction of individuals, which are dictated by energy intake and budgeting. Here we show how to construct a simple matrix population model from a dynamic energy budget model in a constant or seasonally variable environment. The matrix model accurately predicts asymptotic population dynamics for a wide range of parameter values and environmental conditions. The model captures some transients well, but more elaborate stage structure is necessary when the initial age distribution within stages is far from the stable age distribution.
Potassium influence on susceptibility of bermudagrass to Helminthosporium cynodontis toxin

A curvilinear relationship was observed between disease severity and tissue K concentration. Leaf spotting increased when tissue K levels decreased below about 25 g/kg. Tifton 78 was more resistant than Grazer to CFT. Tifton 78 maintained higher tissue K levels at all fertilization rates due to lower biomass production and comparable amounts of K removed. Varietal differences should be considered when determining proper K fertilization rates from tissue analysis
Working with families of impaired elderly

In this article, several approaches to working with the complexity of family relationships in later adulthood are described. Basic information on family forms and the pattern of family support for older adults is discussed. In addition, several examples of interventions with family members of older adults are reviewed. The goal of these activities is to increase the range of options available to older adults and their family caregivers.
Pulmonary Hypertension Secondary to Thrombocytosis in a Patient with Myeloid Metaplasia

A 72-year-old physician with myeloid metaplasia developed marked thrombocytosis, pulmonary hypertension, and right heart failure following splenectomy. No cause for the pulmonary hypertension could be found. The pulmonary hypertension and right heart failure returned to normal when hydroxyurea therapy corrected the thrombocythemia. It is concluded that thrombocytosis may cause pulmonary hypertension, mediated by pulmonary capillary obstruction from cellular components, involving platelet aggregation, microthrombosis, and stasis, and possible vasoconstrictor effects.
Murine neuroblastoma cured in vivo by an antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity reaction

CYTOLYSIS of antibody-coated tumour cells mediated by reticuloendothelial (RE) or bone marrow cells is a phenomenon of unknown biological relevance1–4. The specificity of the reaction lies in the antibody5,6; probably most or all cells able to recognise the Fc fragment of the antibody molecule can mediate this reaction, including lymphocytes and monocytes6,7, circulating cultured transformed lymphoblasts8, polymorphonuclear leukocytes9 and malignant reticulum cells10. In tumour systems the contribution of this reaction is difficult to distinguish in vivo from other cytolytic phenomena, including complement-dependent antibody-mediated cytotoxicity, T-cell cytotoxicity or cell killing exerted by “armed” macrophages11,12, all of which may be active in various degrees in different experimental circumstances. But antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), as this phenomenon has been termed13, seems to be of potential therapeutic interest because both its magnitude and specificity depend on specific antibody levels, and antibody levels may be potentially more manipulable in man than are the cellular elements of a host anti-tumour response. In addition, there is preliminary evidence that fixed tissue macrophages may be active in eliminating circulating metastatic cells by this mechanism14. It was therefore interesting to determine whether functional ADCC could be demonstrated in vivo independent of other cytolytic mechanisms since its demonstration has so far been limited to in vitro assays.
Realignment Considerations in the Triple Arthrodesis

Triple arthrodesis is indicated for pain, deformity, and instability of the tritarsal complex. Although osseous consolidation is important to outcome, success depends primarily on appropriate realignment. A poorly positioned triple arthrodesis may result in continued pain and disability, gait disturbances, excessive stress in adjacent joints, and footwear problems. We present a protocol for intraoperative realignment of the triple arthrodesis guided by image intensification. This protocol for alignment evaluation was followed in nine patients who underwent triple arthrodesis for a variety of pathologies. (J Am Podiatr Med Assoc 95(1): 13–17, 2005)
LATIN SQUARES, CENTRAL TENDENCIES, AND CUBES

[This abstract is based on the author's abstract.] Formulas for operational measures of central tendency on four to eight data points are explained. A comparison of the four-point formula with the arithmetic average as a measure of central tendency ..
Theoretical Foundations of Ethics in Public Administration Approaches to Understanding Moral Action

Ethical action in public administration needs to be informed by more than human intuitions. To make correct intuitive judgments about right and wrong, decision makers can be guided by moral philosophy. The works of three philosophers, R. M. Hare, John Rawls, and A lasdair Macintyre, are considered in this regard; the strengths and weaknesses of each, as applied to public administration, are assessed. Implications for scholarship and teaching in administrative ethics are considered.
Chemical Shift Prediction in the 29Si MAS NMR of Titanosilicates

We have related the 29Si MAS NMR chemical shifts of titanosilicates and highly siliceous zeolites linearly with structural factors. Good correlations in titanosilicates were obtained using the model proposed by Sherriff et al.,1,2 where the chemical shift is described in terms of the summation of valence, dipole, and hybridization terms. This empirical correlation provides a basis for semiquantitative interpretation of spectra for titanium-bearing silicates. Our original goal was to understand the lack of a 29Si NMR peak assignable to silicon that is next-nearest neighbor to titanium in titanium-containing zeolites. Although the equations and correlations presented work very well for most titanium-containing silicates, we still do not understand the 29Si MAS NMR spectrum of these zeolites because our results suggest that there should be a distinguishable peak for TS-1 and TS-2. No such peaks are detected in the actual spectra.
Autoimmune Mechanisms in Antibiotic Treatment-Resistant Lyme Arthritis

In about 10% of patients with Lyme arthritis in the United States, joint inflammation persists for months or even several years after the apparent eradication of the spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi, from the joint with antibiotic treatment. We propose a model of molecular mimicry affecting genetically susceptible individuals to explain this treatment-resistant course. The majority of patients with treatment-resistant Lyme arthritis have HLA-DRB1*0401 or related alleles, and the severity and duration of their arthritis correlate with cellular and humoral immune responses to outer-surface protein A OspA) of the spirochete. Using an algorithm, the immunodominant epitope of OspA presented by the DRB1*0401 molecule was predicted to be located at aa 165-173. In a search of the Genetics Computer Group gene bank, only one human protein was identified, lymphocyte function associated antigen-1 (hLFA-1), that had sequence homology with OspA(165-173)and predicted binding in the DRB1*0401 molecule. Synovial fluid T cells from most patients with treatment-resistant arthritis responded to both OspA and hLFA-1, whereas those from patients with other forms of chronic inflammatory arthritis did not. Molecular mimicry between a dominant T cell epitope of OspA and hLFA-1 may be an important factor in the persistence of joint inflammation in genetically susceptible patients with treatment-resistant Lyme arthritis.
The relation between the Golgi apparatus, cell surface, and cytoplasmic vesicles in amoebae studied by electron microscope radioautography

Summary Amoebae were injected individually with a solution of [3H]mannose, and electron microscope radioautographs were prepared at intervals between 10 min and 24 h after the injection. The Golgi apparatus was very heavily labeled 30 min after injection, and its radioactivity declined in the subsequent samples. A peak of radioactivity was observed 1–2 h after injection in groups of small vesicles in the cytoplasm. Labeling of the cell surface was initially low, but it then rose rapidly to a peak 12 h after administration of the precursor. Other types of cytoplasmic vacuoles, including large ‘fringed’ vacuoles, slowly increased in radioactivity to a maximum in the final sample prepared 24 h after injection. The results suggest that material is transported from the Golgi apparatus to the cell surface, and that the Golgi apparatus plays a role in the assembly of the cell surface coat. The pattern of labeling implicates aggregates of small vesicles and tubules (35 to 50 nm in diameter) in the transport of material from the Golgi apparatus to the surface. Other types of vacuoles, including the large fringed vacuoles (≈100nm to 1 μm in diameter) appear to be endocytosis vacuoles, since they become most heavily labeled after the peak labeling of the cell surface.
Computational study of propagating fronts in a Lattice-gas model

Velocities and other features of propagating fronts in the lattice-gas model analyzed by Bramsonet al. are computed by Monte Carlo simulation. The propagation velocityν(γ) is found to converge slowly to its asymptotic dependence on the exchange-rate parameterγ. The number density of occupied sites in the “interaction zone” (extending from the forwardmost occupied to the rearmost unoccupied site) appears to converge to 2/3 for largeγ. Spatial profiles of site occupancy and interface number density for finiteγ are compared to the profiles originally computed by Fisher using the differential equation obeyed in the large-γ limit. Several significant features inferred from the computations have not yet been explained analytically.
Aqueductal stenosis as the cause of hydrocephalus in mice fed the substituted hydrazine, cuprizone.

Abstract Aqueductal stenosis and hydrocephalus were induced in male, weanling Swiss albino mice by dietary administration of a substituted hydrazine, cuprizone. The toxicity was clinically characterized by severe growth reduction, convulsions, and domed calvaria. Pathoanatomic alterations consisted of severe status spongiosus, astrogliosis, demyelination, and hydrocephalus. Serial sections through the mesencephalon revealed that hydrocephalus developed secondary to stenosis of the aqueduct of Sylvius. The stenosis was preceded by edema and loss of ependymal cells and was accompanied by aqueductule formation. The sequential study suggested that aqueductal stenosis developed as a sequelum to pressure exerted on the narrow aqueduct by edematous mesencephalic tissue. Possible mechanisms of action are also discussed.
Hyperfine pressure shift of Cs 133 atoms in noble and molecular buffer gases

The fractional pressure shifts (fps) of the ground-state hyperfine frequency of $^{133}\mathrm{Cs}$ were remeasured for a number of buffer gases and found to be (in units of ${10}^{\ensuremath{-}9}$/Torr): for He, 123.5 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 1.0; ${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$, 118.0 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.5; Ne, 63.5 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.5; ${\mathrm{N}}_{2}$, 90.0 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 1.0; Ar, -21.5 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 1.0; ${\mathrm{CH}}_{4}$, -104.0 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.5; ${\mathrm{CD}}_{3}$H, -92.5 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.5; ${\mathrm{C}}_{2}$${\mathrm{H}}_{6}$, -118.5 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 2.5; ${\mathrm{C}}_{3}$${\mathrm{H}}_{8}$, -291.5 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 1.5; ${\mathrm{C}}_{4}$${\mathrm{H}}_{10}$, -390.5 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 2.5; and ${\mathrm{C}}_{2}$${\mathrm{H}}_{4}$, -269.0 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 2.5. In addition, the fps for the buffers ${\mathrm{D}}_{2}$, 188.0 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.5; ${\mathrm{CF}}_{4}$, -21.5 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 1.0; and ${\mathrm{CD}}_{2}$${\mathrm{H}}_{2}$, -95.5 \ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{} 0.5 were measured for the first time. Trends in the observed fractional shifts are discussed qualitatively in terms of the effects of anisotropic intermolecular interactions on the long-and short-range contributions to the fps.
Static relaxation in germane and the estimation of relaxation energy differences from auger and core binding energies of germanium compounds

Abstract Auger and core electron spectra were measured for several germanium compounds in the gas phase. The L 2 M 45 M 45 and L 3 M 45 M 45 Auger spectra of GeH 4 were deconvoluted to determine the energies of the individual component peaks. The molecular relaxation energy of the GeH 4 M 45 shell was taken to be the average difference between the experimental and calculated energies. Differences in the molecular relaxation energies of the other germanium compounds relative to GeH 4 were calculated using the chemical shifts of the 1 G components of the L 3 M 45 M 45 Auger spectra and of the Ge 3d core electrons.
Concurrent and Prospective Relations Between Attention to Emotion and Affect Intensity: An Experience Sampling Study

Theorists contend that emotional awareness is vital to being able to use emotional information adaptively. The extent to which individuals attend to and value their feelings, or attention to emotion, is a facet of emotional awareness. Little research, however, has examined whether attention to emotion affects the magnitude or intensity of emotional experiences. In the present study we examined the relations between attention to emotion and levels of affect in 53 healthy adults. Participants carried hand-held electronic devices for approximately seven days and were randomly prompted eight times per day to answer a series of questions. At each prompt, participants reported attention to emotion, current negative affect (NA), and positive affect (PA). All findings presented were computed using multilevel modeling. Replicating findings obtained using trait-level measures, we found that attention to emotion was associated concurrently with higher levels of both NA and PA. We also found prospectively that attention to emotion at one prompt predicted a decrease in levels of NA, but no change in levels of PA, at the subsequent prompt. These findings suggest that emotional processes serve different functions over time and highlight the role of attention to emotion in affect regulation.
Hypoxia inducible factor pathway inhibitors as anticancer therapeutics

Hypoxia is a significant feature of solid tumor cancers. Hypoxia leads to a more malignant phenotype that is resistant to chemotherapy and radiation, is more invasive and has greater metastatic potential. Hypoxia activates the hypoxia inducible factor (HIF) pathway, which mediates the biological effects of hypoxia in tissues. The HIF complex acts as a transcription factor for many genes that increase tumor survival and proliferation. To date, many HIF pathway inhibitors indirectly affect HIF but there have been no clinically approved direct HIF inhibitors. This can be attributed to the complexity of the HIF pathway, as well as to the challenges of inhibiting protein–protein interactions.
Accumulation of DNA damages in aging Paramecium tetraurelia.

Paramecium tetraurelia cells of ages 4, 15, and 27 days were labeled with [14C]-thymidine. In addition, cells were grown clonally for 27 days (108 generations) and labeled with [14C]-thymidine in the presence of 0.5 or 7.5 μg/ml of mitomycin-C (MMC) or no MMC. These cells were gently deposited on a filter membrane, which impedes the passage of DNA strands. The cells were then lysed with detergents and the cellular components washed through the filters, leaving double-stranded DNA intact on the surface. Proteinase K was used to remove histone or DNA-bound proteins. The DNA was then eluted under alkaline conditions, which denatures double-stranded DNA and converts apurinic/apyrimidinic sites into single-strand breaks. The results obtained with the cells of ages 4, 15, and 27 days (16, 60, and 108 generations, respectively) indicate that as Paramecium tetraurelia ages during asexual reproduction, apurinic/apyrimidinic lesions, strand breaks or single-strand gaps accumulate. This accumulation may be the basic mechanism of aging in such cells. In the MMC-treated cells of 27 days (108 generations), the MMC reduced elution of DNA fragments more at the higher than at the lower pH's used; random MMC cross-links should occur more often in longer strands than in shorter strands. The reductions in elution preferentially at higher pH, at which longer single strands would be eluted, confirmed the pH-versuslength relationship for Paramecium DNA eluted under our conditions.
Ultrasound-guided femoral nerve blocks in elderly patients with hip fractures

Abstract Objectives The primary objective of this study was to determine the feasibility of ultrasound-guided femoral nerve blocks in elderly patients with hip fractures in the emergency department (ED). The secondary objective was to examine the effectiveness of this technique as an adjunct for pain control in the ED. Methods This prospective observational study enrolled a convenience sample of 13 patients with hip fractures. Ultrasound-guided femoral nerve block was performed on all participants. To determine feasibility, time to perform the procedure, number of attempts, and complications were measured. To determine effectiveness of pain control, numerical rating scores were assessed at baseline and at 15 minutes, 30 minutes, and hourly after the procedure for 4 hours. Summary statistics were calculated for feasibility measures. Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank tests and Friedman analysis of variance test were used to compare differences in pain scores. Results The median age of the participants was 82 years (range, 67-94 years); 9 were female. The median time to perform the procedure was 8 minutes (range, 7-11 minutes). All procedures required only one attempt; there were no complications. After the procedure, there were 44% and 67% relative decreases in pain scores at 15 minutes (P ≤ .002) and at 30 minutes (P ≤ .001), respectively. Pain scores were unchanged from 30 minutes to 4 hours after the procedure (P ≤ .77). Conclusions Ultrasound-guided femoral nerve blocks are feasible to perform in the ED. Significant and sustained decreases in pain scores were achieved with this technique.
Accounting, budgeting and control systems in their organizational context: Theoretical and empirical perspectives☆

Abstract This paper examines the relationship between accounting, budgeting and control in its actual organization context from a theoretical as well as an empirical perspective. It argues that the process of exercising control in an organization is significantly more complex than conventional managerial accounting theory suggests. It also argues that budgeting and even an accounting system cannot be viewed as a control system per se; rather, they must be seen as a part of a carefully designed total system of organizational control. If the linkages between budgeting or an accounting measurement system and the other essential prerequisites of a control system are not adequate, then the system may not fulfill its intended functions. The validity and implications of these ideas are examined in the context of the control systems of three organizations. The results suggest the need for a different orientation of the role that accounting and budgeting play in the control process as well as a broader concept of control itself.
The significance of the MB isoenzyme in patients with acute cardiovascular disease with a normal or borderline total CPK activity

CPK MB isoenzymes were qualitatively identified using an electrophoresis method in 166 patients with acute cardiovascular disease during a six month period. Forty-three had total CPK activity in the normal or borderline range (0--75 U/Liter at the time the MB isoenzyme was first identified. Fifteen of these patients were diagnosed as having had a new acute myocardinal infarction (Group I) and another 15 as having had an old myocardial infarction (Group II). Diagnosis was based on electrocardiographic changes or autopsy findings. The remaining 13 patients were classified as "ischemic heart disease" (Group III) in the absence of strict electrocardiographic criteria or autopsy evidence of myocardial infarction. Nine of the 15 patients in Group I subsequently had elevations of their total CPK activity above 75 U/L. In contrast the total CPK activity of only one patient from Group II and Group III subsequently exceeded 75 U/liter. All 43 patients had evidence of cardiovascular disease. Our findings suggest that the detection of MB isoenzyme in the presence of a normal total CPK activity is a significant laboratory finding and is indicative of cardiac myofiber injury.
Exogenous quinones directly inhibit the respiratory NADH dehydrogenase in Escherichia coli

The ability of naphthoquinones to generate reactive oxygen species has been widely exploited in studies of oxidative stress. However, excess superoxide dismutase and catalase failed to protect Escherichia coli in rich medium against growth inhibition by plumbagin, indicating that its toxic effect was not due to the production of partially reduced oxygen species. Respiration failed immediately upon the addition of growth-inhibitory levels of plumbagin. Studies in vitro showed that plumbagin and other redox-active quinones intercept electrons from NADH dehydrogenase, the primary respiratory dehydrogenase in glucose-containing media. An excess of oxidative substrate, such as plumbagin, inactivates this enzyme, which appears to be redox-regulated. The resultant respiratory arrest is a cautionary example of metabolic dysfunction from redox-cycling drugs that cannot be attributed to superoxide or hydrogen peroxide.
The CDF silicon detector: Performance and longevity

Abstract The CDF silicon vertex detector is one of the largest operating silicon detectors in particle physics. Its silicon sensors have 722,432 channels readout by 5456 chips and cover an area of 6 m 2 . The detector is used for precision tracking and in the hardware trigger for events with a displaced vertex. This paper includes a brief review of the detector performance and mainly focuses on issues of longevity and effects of radiation damage. An analysis of the time evolution of depletion voltages and signal-to-noise ratios indicates that the CDF silicon detector should outlast the Tevatron Run II without major degradation of performance.
Reduction of the Pesticides Oxamyl and Methomyl by FeII: Effect of pH and Inorganic Ligands

This work examines the effect that pH and selected inorganic ligands have on the kinetics of reactions between FeII and two structurally related oxime carbamate pesticides, oxamyl and methomyl. In anoxic solutions containing FeII, these compounds degrade by parallel elimination and reduction pathways. Rates of FeII-independent carbamate elimination (Elcb mechanism) are proportional to [OH-], increasing 10-fold for each unit increase in pH. In homogeneous solution, rates of carbamate reduction by 0.5 mM FeII are relatively constant at pH 8.3, Fe(OH)2(s) precipitation occurs, and carbamates react with both solution-phase and solid-phase FeII. Carbamate reduction by FeII is not significantly affected by the presence of chloride, bromide, nitrate, perchlorate, and sulfate. In contrast, increased rates of carbamate reduction are observed in solutions containing fluoride, carbonate, and phosphate. Kinetic measurements are interpreted in terms of chan...
IgE in human eccrine sweat.

By the use of a sensitive and specific double antibody radioimmunoassay, immunoglobulin E was demonstrated in sweat from 6 of 11 healthy volunteers; the concentrations of IgE ranged from 1 to 3.9 ng/ml of sweat. Six of seven patients with dermatitis and elevated levels of serum IgE also had high IgE levels in sweat; the highest IgE value in sweat was 75.5 ng/ml and was noted in a patient with atopic dermatitis. Thus, all the main immunoglobulin classes can he demonstrated in eccrine sweat.
Airway responsiveness in mild to moderate childhood asthma: sex influences on the natural history.

Rationale: Airway responsiveness is a prognostic marker for asthma symptoms in later life. Objectives: To evaluate characteristics responsible for persistence of airway responsiveness in children with asthma. Methods: A total of 1,041 children, initially aged 5–12 years, with mild to moderate persistent asthma enrolled in the Childhood Asthma Management Program (CAMP) were studied prospectively for 8.6 ± 1.8 years with methacholine challenges yearly. Measurements and Main Results: Least squares geometric mean models were fit to determine effects of sex and age on airway responsiveness (provocative concentration producing 20% decrease in FEV1 [PC20]). Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to determine factors at baseline and over time, which were associated with PC20 at end of follow-up. A total of 7,748 methacholine challenges were analyzed. PC20 increased with age, with boys having greater increase after age 11 years than girls (P < 0.001). The divergence coincided with the mean age for Tanner stage 2. Postpubertal girls had greater airway responsiveness, even after adjustment for FEV1 and other potential confounders. Although multivariable regression analyses noted a variety of factors that influenced airway responsivness in both sexes, a history of hay fever (β= −0.30, P = 0.005), respiratory allergy (β= −0.32, P = 0.006), or recent inhaled corticosteroid usage (β= −0.18, P = 0.02) were associated with decrements in final log PC20 only in girls. Conclusions: Airway responsiveness (PC20) is more severe in the postpubertal female with asthma than in males. Although there are factors associated with airway responsiveness in both males and females, sex-specific factors may contribute to new insights into asthma pathogenesis.
The Duke, The Professors, And the Great Coral Reef Controversy of 1887-1888

In September 1887 the Duke of Argyll published an article entitled ‘A great lesson’ denouncing Darwin's coral reef theory and alleging that it continued to be supported in the face of new evidence contradicting it because of the authority of Darwin's name and the status of his disciples in British science. His attack touched off a robust correspondence in The Nineteenth Century which soon spread to Nature, and in which T. H. Huxley was the chief defender both of Darwin's views and of scientific procedures. Partly this controversy revolved around the interpretation of coral reefs themselves, but partly also it sprang from the resentment of scientists at the Duke's charge that they were swayed in their judgements by other than objective scientific criteria and modes of argument. The Duke was, in effect, anticipating later interpretations of science as a social activity, but as a result of the exaggerated and polemical nature of his contributions this insight was lost sight of as the scientists defended both...
DIFFERENTIAL ITEM FUNCTIONING: ITS CONSEQUENCES

This report examines the consequences of differential item functioning (DIF) using simulated data. Its impact on total score, item response theory (IRT) ability estimate, and test reliability was evaluated in various testing scenarios created by manipulating the following four factors: test length, percentage of DIF items per form, sample sizes of different examinee groups, and types of responses. The results indicate that the greatest score difference was observed between the examinee groups on forms with DIF items, and the magnitude was less than 2 points on the 0-60 total score scale and .15 on the IRT ability scale. The influence on reliability was rather limited.
Bonding in hard and elastic amorphous carbon nitride films investigated using 15 N, 13 C, and 1 H NMR spectroscopy

The nitrogen bonding in hard and elastic amorphous carbon nitride (a-CN x ) films is examined with 1 5 N, 1 3 C, and 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Films were deposited by dc magnetron sputtering, in apure nitrogen discharge on Si(001) substrates at 300°C. Nanoindentation tests revealed an elastic recovery of 80%, a hardness of 5 GPa, and an elastic modulus of 47 GPa. The NMR results show that nitrogen bonding in this material is consistent with sp 2 hybridized nitrogen incorporated in an aromatic carbon environment. The data also indicate that the a-CN x prepared for this study has very low hydrogen content and is hydrophilic. Specifically, analysis of 1 5 N and 1 3 C cross polarization magic angle spinning and 1 H NMR experiments suggests that water preferentially protonates nitrogen sites.
Selection of TCR Vα by MHC class II predicts superantigen reactivity

Recognition of superantigens by T cells predominantly involves the TCR V beta region. The contribution of reactivity from the non-V beta portion of the TCR remains less clear. We have investigated the V alpha repertoire of T cells bearing one V beta element responding to different superantigen or polyclonal stimuli. The data indicate that the V alpha chain is not directly involved in superantigen recognition, since unrelated superantigens do not stimulate cells bearing different V alpha elements. Instead, analysis of V alpha elements used preferentially in the CD4+ or CD8+ cells, shows that the V alpha-regions predominating in the superantigen response are the same V alphas that are positively selected into the CD4+ lineage. Thus the ability of a V alpha-region to either aid or hinder the interaction with class II predicts its frequency in a superantigen-responding population of T cells.
On the Energy Release Rate of Fatigued Composites Subjected to Compressive Overloads

The behavior of delaminated graphite/epoxy composites under variable amplitude compressive loading (spectrum loading) is studied. The delamination growth is monitored in real time during fatigue tests. Different variable amplitude compressive load spectra are applied. Calculations of the energy release rate, G, as a function of the delamination length, delamination position, and applied strain during the spectrum loading are performed. Numerical simulations are based on a mixed mode fatigue growth model that is not subjected to the thin film model restrictions. The higher energy release values during the overloads were associated to the formation of intralayer and interlayer cracks on the composite specimens.
Relative Efficacy of Antilipemic Agents in Non–High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Reduction:

The investigators sought to summarize the percentage reduction in non–high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) achieved with various antilipemic regimens and to determine whether certain antilipemic regimens have been proven more effective in lowering non-HDL-C. A search of MEDLINE, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, and Iowa Drug Information Service Database from 1970 to May 2011 was performed. Criteria were used to exclude studies not published in English, studies with methodology limitations, and studies with variables that may affect efficacy beyond the antilipemic agent administered. Only randomized, controlled trials comparing medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration were reviewed to determine whether significant differences in percentage reduction in non-HDL-C had been observed between different medication regimens. A total of 51 trials reported data that could be used to determine the range of percentage reduction in non-HDL-C achieved by select antilipemic regimens. O...
Visualization of the Distribution of Autophosphorylated Calcium/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase II after Tetanic Stimulation in the CA1 Area of the Hippocampus

Autophosphorylation of calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) at threonine-286 produces Ca2+-independent kinase activity and has been proposed to be involved in induction of long-term potentiation by tetanic stimulation in the hippocampus. We have used an immunocytochemical method to visualize and quantify the pattern of autophosphorylation of CaMKII in hippocampal slices after tetanization of the Schaffer collateral pathway. Thirty minutes after tetanic stimulation, autophosphorylated CaM kinase II (P-CaMKII) is significantly increased in area CA1 both in apical dendrites and in pyramidal cell somas. In apical dendrites, this increase is accompanied by an equally significant increase in staining for nonphosphorylated CaM kinase II. Thus, the increase in P-CaMKII appears to be secondary to an increase in the total amount of CaMKII. In neuronal somas, however, the increase in P-CaMKII is not accompanied by an increase in the total amount of CaMKII. We suggest that tetanic stimulation of the Schaffer collateral pathway may induce new synthesis of CaMKII molecules in the apical dendrites, which contain mRNA encoding its alpha-subunit. In neuronal somas, however, tetanic stimulation appears to result in long-lasting increases in P-CaMKII independent of an increase in the total amount of CaMKII. Our findings are consistent with a role for autophosphorylation of CaMKII in the induction and/or maintenance of long-term potentiation, but they indicate that the effects of tetanus on the kinase and its activity are not confined to synapses and may involve induction of new synthesis of kinase in dendrites as well as increases in the level of autophosphorylated kinase.
Hybrid solar cells constructed of macroporous n-type GaP coated with PEDOT: PSS

Abstract Hybrid organic–inorganic solar cell devices were fabricated utilizing macroporous n-type GaP and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4-styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS). The high-aspect ratio structures of the macroporous GaP resulted in higher photocurrent and external quantum yield as a function of wavelength. Photocurrent–voltage measurements as a function of light intensity revealed information on the dependence of short-circuit current ( J sc ) and open-circuit voltage ( V oc ) on light intensity. Under 1.0 Sun illumination, hybrid macroporous GaP/PEDOT:PSS devices showed J sc of 2.34 mA cm −2 , V oc of 0.95 V, fill factor of 0.54, and overall efficiency of 1.21%. The extent of the influence of dopant density of GaP on hybrid device performance was probed with current density–voltage measurements. The addition of a gold nanoparticle coating on macroporous GaP prior to PEDOT:PSS coating showed increased device performance, with overall efficiency of 1.81%. Gold-modified planar GaP/PEDOT:PSS showed decreased J sc and V oc values and lower external quantum yield over all wavelengths.
Factor VII coagulant activity, factor VII -670A/C and -402G/A polymorphisms, and risk of venous thromboembolism.

Summary. Background: Most epidemiological studies have found no association between levels of factor (F) VII:C and venous thromboembolism (VTE). Our Longitudinal Investigation of Thromboembolism Etiology (LITE) had, in contrast, reported an independent, increased risk of VTE after 7.8 years of follow-up for those with high baseline levels of FVII:C.Objective: To confirm whether FVII:C is associated with VTE after 12.6 years of follow-up and to examine whether two FVII gene polymorphisms (−670A/C and −402G/A) are related to VTE occurrence.Methods: In 19 091 LITE participants with no prior history of VTE or cancer, we measured FVII:C at baseline and identified 404 new VTEs. We also performed a nested case–control study to relate the polymorphisms to VTE (n = 490 without exclusion for cancer or prior VTE).Results: FVII:C was not independently associated with VTE occurrence after extended follow-up. Multivariable-adjusted rate ratios for VTE were 1.00, 1.00, 0.94, 1.00, and 1.38 (P-trend = 0.48) for the <25th, 25th–49th, 50th–74th, 75th–94th, and ≥95th percentiles of FVII:C, respectively. The −670C and −402A alleles were in high linkage disequilibrium, and both were associated with greater FVII:C levels. However, neither polymorphism was associated with VTE occurrence.Conclusion: After extended follow-up, LITE offers little evidence that a greater FVII level is a risk factor for VTE.
HUMAN MICROCHIP IMPLANTATION

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) has generated a lot of attention in recent years as a method of replacing the barcode. Th is paper will begin by examining some of the origins of RFID technology. From there it will look at several applications of RFID technology within the health care industry. Next, privacy and legal issues will be examined. Lastly the result of a survey of local students
Consolidating democracy? The structural underpinnings of Ghana's 2000 elections

In 2000, Ghana’s landmark elections ushered in a new era of democracy. Scholars, however, have yet to scrutinise the structural underpinnings of the country’s electoral system. This article oers a detailed assessment of Ghana’s bloated voters’ register, patterns of voter turnout and the lingering accusation of electoral irregularities in the Volta and Ashanti Regions in the 2000 elections. Most significantly, it critically analyses the severe malapportionment of the country’s 200 parliamentary seats. While the 2000 elections helped to consolidate the democratic process in Ghana, structural inequalities continue to plague the country’s electoral system.
A Bayesian approach to multiscale inverse problems using the sequential Monte Carlo method

A new Bayesian computational approach is developed to estimate spatially varying parameters. The sparse grid collocation method is adopted to parameterize the spatial field. Based on a hierarchically structured sparse grid, a multiscale representation of the spatial field is constructed. An adaptive refinement strategy is then used for computing the spatially varying parameter. A sequential Monte Carlo (SMC) sampler is used to explore the posterior distributions defined on multiple scales. The SMC sampling is directly parallelizable and is superior to conventional Markov chain Monte Carlo methods for multi-modal target distributions. The samples obtained at coarser levels of resolution are used to provide prior information for the estimation at finer levels. This Bayesian computational approach is rather general and applicable to various spatially varying parameter estimation problems. The method is demonstrated with the estimation of permeability in flows through porous media.
Fast Semantic Extraction Using a Novel Neural Network Architecture

A system and method for semantic extraction using a neural network architecture includes indexing each word in an input sentence into a dictionary and using these indices to map each word to a d-dimensional vector (the features of which are learned). Together with this, position information for a word of interest (the word to labeled) and a verb of interest (the verb that the semantic role is being predicted for) with respect to a given word are also used. These positions are integrated by employing a linear layer that is adapted to the input sentence. Several linear transformations and squashing functions are then applied to output class probabilities for semantic role labels. All the weights for the whole architecture are trained by backpropagation.
Spectral editing : a quantitative application of spin-echo nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to the study of 27Al in zeolite catalysts

Abstract 27Al spin-echo nuclear magnetic resonance (n.m.r.) is used to measure the spin—spin relaxation times, T2H, for a substantial number of model compounds, and a theory (with no adjustable parameters) based on AIAI dipolar interactions combined with crystallographically determined AIAI distances is used to estimate T2H. The homonuclear magnetic dipole interaction explains the experimental data reasonably well for compounds with high Al levels, but much less well for compounds with low levels of AI, where structure-specific interactions are important. Such structure-specific interactions are exploited to edit zeolitic AI from the background binder in alumina-bound ZSM-5 and in dealuminated zeolite-Y catalysts containing nonframework (NFW) AI. Editing allows quantitative analysis of the zeolitic components. For dealuminated zeolite Y, it is concluded that peaks assigned by others to “pentacoordinate” AI may actually arise from NFW aluminum, based on the fact that their T2H is short relative to framework (FW) AI. Theory and experimental results for the technically more demanding measurement of T2H under conditions of “magic-angle” sample spinning (MAS) with synchronous sampling are also reported. Spin-echo editing of synchronously sampled 27AI MAS n.m.r. spectra are shown to be useful for determining the FW zeolitic AI content of realistically formulated (kaolinite bound) and steamed/calcined fluidized bed cracking (FCC) catalysts. The loss of framework AI in two series of steamed FCC catalysts is less precipitous than the loss in catalytic activity, as measured by the hexane cracking α parameter.