cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Compressive parameter estimation via approximate message passing

The literature on compressive parameter estimation has been mostly focused on the use of sparsity dictionaries that encode a sampling of the parameter space; these dictionaries, however, suffer from coherence issues that must be controlled for successful estimation. We propose the use of statistical parameter estimation methods within the approximate message passing (AMP) algorithm for signal recovery. Our proposed work leverages the recently highlighted connection between statistical denoising methods and the thresholding step commonly used during recovery. As an example, we consider line spectral estimation by leveraging the well-known Root MUSIC algorithm. Numerical experiments show significant improvements in estimation performance.
Toward forward modeling for paleoclimatic proxy signal calibration: A case study with oxygen isotopic composition of tropical woods

A forward model of the oxygen isotopic composition (δ18O) of wood cellulose is parameterized for time series prediction in tropical environments and driven with meteorological data observed at La Selva Biological Research Station, Costa Rica, for 1985–2001. Monthly-resolution model results correlate modestly (r = 0.34, p < 0.05) with observed isotopic data, with higher correlation (r = 0.45, p < 0.01) over the earliest 10 years of comparison and nonsignificant correlation over the most recent 6 years of record. Analysis of model output for La Selva suggests that isotopic variations are strongly controlled by rainfall amount. The model simulates an analogous but stronger than observed negative isotopic anomaly associated with positive July–September rainfall anomalies during El Nino–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) warm phase event years. Simulated tree isotope data for the global tropics suggest that a network of well-replicated data series from selected locations may resolve the large-scale precipitation anomaly pattern associated with ENSO.
Electron beam induced evolution in Au, Ag, and interfaced heterogeneous Au/Ag nanoparticles

A sintering process of nanoparticles made of Ag, Au, and interfaced Ag/Au heterodimers was investigated by in situ transmission electron microscopy at room temperature. Such a process is driven by the illumination of a high-energy electron beam accelerated at 200 kV that promotes atom diffusion in the nanoparticles that are in physical contact. Upon electron illumination, adjacent Au nanoparticles gradually merge together to form a larger particle along with the reduction of the surface area despite the fact that orientated attachment is not observed. According to the detailed analysis of the size change of the particles and the contact area, it was found that the nanoparticle fusion process is significantly different from the well-established thermal diffusion mechanism. In addition to the similar fusion process of Au nanoparticles, Ag nanoparticles undergo apparent sublimation induced by knock on damage because the transferred energy from the electron beam to nanoparticles is higher than the surface binding energy of Ag atoms when the electron scattering angle is larger than 112°. The particles with a smaller size diffuse faster. Surface diffusion dominates at the beginning of the fusion process followed by slower lattice diffusion. Electron beam illumination can transform the interfaced Au/Ag dimers to Au@Ag core–shell particles followed by a slow removal of the Ag shells. This process under normal electron beam illumination is a lot faster than the thermally driven process. Both diffusion and sublimation of Ag atoms are dependent on the intensity of the electron beam, i.e., a higher beam intensity is favorable to accelerate both the processes.
Symposium: Economics of the New Left: Comment

Introduction, 644. — The economics paradigm, 647. — The Marxian paradigm, 652. — Conclusion, 656.
Unit-Vector Density Mapping

AbstractAn automated mapping technique, termed unit-vector density mapping, is introduced as a new method of displaying continuous surface vector quantities. With this graphic procedure, the density of short standard-length line segments (unit-vectors) with, or without, arrowheads represents geographical magnitudes and unit-vector orientation shows direction or movement. This paper describes the plotting algorithms for producing unit-vector density maps and demonstrates the versatility of this technique in a number of geoscientific applications.
Duplication (12q) syndrome in female cousins, resulting from maternal (11;12) (p15.5;q24.2) translocations

We have studied female cousins with partial duplication of 12q. The cousins' mothers (who are sisters) and the maternal grandmother and great grandmother carried a balanced translocation between chromosomes 11 and 12. We have compared our patients with eight other reported cases of partial duplication of the same chromosome segment (12q24----12qter). Placement of the extra material seems to have little effect on the anomalies present; (only two other cases involved chromosome 11). We propose that our patients provide further evidence that duplication of 12q leads to a clinically identifiable syndrome.
Implementation of DBT-Informed Therapy at a Rural University Training Clinic: A Case Study

Abstract University training clinics offer state-of-the-art treatment opportunities for clients, particularly for underserved and underinsured client populations. Little has been published regarding the implementation of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in settings such as a university training clinic, which may face challenges in utilizing such a comprehensive treatment. This single-case study describes the application of a DBT-informed treatment with a female BPD client, highlighting how the modifications made can ease implementation in a rural university training clinic. Data collected from DBT diary cards document minimal time demands required for the use of between session-coaching, along with clinically meaningful changes in suicidality and misery ratings, and effective DBT skill use. A discussion of the unique components and contributions of this case to informing potential DBT modifications within university clinics are presented.
Giving circles and fundraising in the new philanthropy environment

This article reports on an exploratory study to understand the impact of the new philanthropy on funding recipients by asking nonprofit professionals about their experiences working with giving circles. Giving circles are growing in number across the United States. They are attractive to new philanthropy donors who pool their resources and then decide together where to give them away. They also frequently include social, educational, and volunteer engagement components. Giving circles seem to be an important source of new and expanded resources for nonprofit organizations, but there are both benefits and challenges to working with giving circles that reveal several problematic tensions for nonprofit funding recipients, the philanthropic relationship, and society more broadly.
One-day forward premiums and the impact of virtual bidding on the New York wholesale electricity market using hourly data

This study examines one-day forward premiums at the hourly level on the New York independent systems operator wholesale electricity market for the period 2001–2005. Examining two representative zones, the authors show that premiums vary by hour of day, day of week, and month. We report differences in the level and volatility of the premium across zones. We measure the impact of opening the market to outsiders through the introduction of virtual bidding. Results indicate that virtual bidding is associated with lower premiums in off-peak or near-off-peak hours; it is associated with higher premiums during peak hours. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 27: 1107–1125, 2007
Efficacy and complications of the transconjunctival entropion repair for lower eyelid involutional entropion.

Purpose To evaluate the efficacy of the transconjunctival entropion repair (TCER) for lower eyelid involutional entropion. Design Retrospective, noncomparative, interventional case series. Participants One hundred fifty-one eyelids in 120 patients who underwent TCER for involutional entropion over a 12-year period from February 1991 through January 2003. Methods Surgical technique addressed all 3 anatomic factors underlying the entropion and was performed through a transconjunctival incision. Lateral tarsal strip procedure addressed horizontal eyelid laxity, lower eyelid retractor reinsertion addressed retractor disinsertion, and excision of a strip of the preseptal orbicularis oculi addressed preseptal orbicularis override. Main Outcome Measures Entropion resolution, entropion recurrence, postoperative eyelid retraction, and complication rate. Results Transconjunctival entropion repair resulted in resolution of entropion, with a success rate of 96.7% (146 of 151 eyelids); entropion recurrence rate was 3.3% (5 of 151 eyelids). No patient had postoperative eyelid retraction or scleral show, and there were no overcorrections or secondary ectropions in any of the 151 eyelids. Postoperative complications occurred in 6 of 151 eyelids (4.0%) of 6 of 120 patients (5.0%) and included stitch abscess (1 eyelid, 0.7%), lateral tarsal strip dehiscence (2 eyelids, 1.3%), lateral canthal dystopia (2 eyelids, 1.3%), and conjunctivochalasis (1 eyelid, 0.7%). Conclusions The transconjunctival lower eyelid entropion repair is effective and safe with low recurrence and complication rates. The TCER circumvents the risk of lower eyelid retraction and overcorrections that may occur with the transcutaneous approach.
Characterization of isolated 80 as XUV Pulses with PROOF

Isolated 80 as XUV pulses are produced and characterized in a streak camera with a magnetic bottle electron spectrometer. The pulses were retrieved by PROOF algorithms for XUV pulses with different chirp.
Heat production in a cardiac contraction.

THE energetics of cardiac contraction, a field of much physiological interest, has remained incompletely developed because of the difficulty of performing heat measurements on a heart muscle preparation. We have recently succeeded in solving some of the technical difficulties and have developed a procedure for myothermic measurements on isolated papillary muscles of the rabbit heart.
Potential Theory Based Blank Design for Deep Drawing Irregular Shaped Components

A computer aided blank design method based on the potential theory and boundary element methods is presented. The potential theory approximately describes the material flow involved in deep drawing processes. Using the CAD model of an irregular shaped component, a specific number of cross sections at different heights can be generated. In order to obtain the blank shape, the outermost contour is determined by developing these sections gradually. This blank design procedure is like an imaginary reverse material flow governed by the potential theory. In addition, the boundary element method provides a good computational efficiency. This computer aided design method has been found effective by a manufacturer and the proposed approach can be used for a wide variety of complicated deep drawing components.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
Aortic obstructions in infants and children: Pathophysiology and clinical presentation of coarctation of the aorta

Summary The pathophysiology and hemodynamics of isolated coarctation of the aorta can be explained best in terms of constriction of the aortic end of the ductus arteriosus. This typically occurs at 7 to 14 days of age in neonates who present with symptoms. A slower, more gradual constriction of the ductus, with its tissue extending into the lumen of the aorta, probably occurs in patients who present as older infants, children, or adolescents. These older patients do not develop symptoms of severe congestive heart failure because the slower constriction allows time for compensitory myocardial hypertrophy, preventing a sudden increase in left ventricular afterload and a decrease in left ventricular output.
Effect of Alumina Source on the Rate of Melting Demonstrated with Nuclear Waste Glass Batch

The selection of raw materials affects the rate of batch-to-glass conversion. In all-electric melters, foam under the batch blanket limits the heat flux from the molten glass, thus slowing the rate of melting. Our study, in which we compare the melting behaviors of three batches formulated to vitrify high-alumina high-level waste, shows that a slowly dissolving refractory component can cause excessive foaming. Faster melting batches with gibbsite [Al(OH)3] or boehmite [AlO(OH)] as an alumina source produced substantially less foaming than a batch with corundum (Al2O3). Although gibbsite and boehmite dissolved below 500°C, corundum was still present in the batch up to 900°C; hence, the glass-forming melt lacked alumina in the batch with corundum. The low viscosity of that batch caused the open pores to close prematurely at 660°C, trapping gases and expanding to foam. This would explain the literature-reported slow melting rate of a batch with corundum, as compared to batches with gibbsite and boehmite.
Deliquescence and Hygroscopic Growth of Mixed Inorganic−Organic Atmospheric Aerosol

Deliquescence and hygroscopic growth measurements were performed for four internally mixed aerosol mixtures: NaCl-glutaric acid, NaCl-pinonic acid, (NH4)2SO4-glutaric acid, and (NH4)2SO4-pinonic acid with varying organic mass fractions (0, 0.2, 0.5, 0.8, and 1.0). No effect on the deliquescence relative humidity of the salts was observed for any of the organic mixtures tested. The NaCl-organic mixed aerosols deliquesced at a relative humidity (DRH) 75 ± 1% and the (NH4)2SO4-organic aerosol at 79 ± 1% independent of organic mass fraction. The growth factors at RH = 85 ± 1%, G(85%), were also measured for the different aerosol mixtures. There was an observed decrease in G(85%) with increasing mass fraction of the organic. Measured G(85%) for the mixtures can be approximated as a first step with the assumption that the species absorb water independently. Overall, the organic portion was observed to enhance the water uptake of the (NH4)2SO4-organic aerosol systems by as much as a factor of 2−3 for particles ...
The cognitive basis for sentence planning difficulties in discourse after traumatic brain injury.

Purpose Analyses of language production of individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) place increasing emphasis on microlinguistic (i.e., within-sentence) patterns. It is unknown whether the obs...
Five hundredfold overproduction of DNA ligase after induction of a hybrid lambda lysogen constructed in vitro

A lambda vector that contains the gene for Escherichia coli DNA ligase (lambdagt4-lop-11 lig+) has been modified to achieve overproduction of this enzyme. The third Eco RI site in the lambda chromosome has been altered by mutation, and the left-hand Eco RI fragment has been shortened. The new vector, lambdagt4-lop-11 lig+, forms a stable lysogen which, upon induction, produces a 100-fold increase in DNA ligase activity. Introduction of a phage mutation (S7) that prevents cell lysis results in an even greater increase (500-fold).
Preparation and characterization of a polyphenylene ether and Nylon-6 block copolymer

A block copolymer of PPO®(1) and Nylon-6 was prepared through modification of the hydroxyl end group of the polyphenylene ether (PPE) with cyanuric chloride or 4,4′-difluorobenzophenone and subsequent anionic polymerization of ɛ-caprolactam using the modified PPE as the promoter. The pure copolymer was isolated by selective solvent extraction, using chloroform to remove PPE homopolymer and unreacted ɛ-caprolactam, and formic acid to remove Nylon-6 homopolymer. The copolymer has two melting points indicative of the Nylon and PPE segments. Its composition has been determined by carbon-13 NMR and elemental analysis.
Studies toward the total synthesis of phalarine: a survey of some biomimetic possibilities

Biomimetically inspired oxidative coupling strategies toward the total synthesis of phalarine (1) are described.
Electrochromic properties as a function of electrolyte on the performance of electrochromic devices consisting of a single-layer polymer

Abstract Herein, a study on varying salts and their composition used in the gel electrolyte for a one-step lamination assembly procedure for electrochromic devices was carried out to explore their effects on various electrochromic performance parameters, such as color uniformity, photopic contrast, switching speed, and optical memory. Electrochromic polymers formed in different gel electrolyte compositions are highly dependent on the type, amount, and composition of salt used. The following groups of salts were investigated: ionic liquids, ammonium salts, and lithium salts. The lithium salts yielded devices with the best color uniformity, photopic contrast as high as 48%, and switching response speeds as low as 1 s for 5.5 cm2 devices using the electroactive monomer 2,2-dimethyl-3,4-propylenedioxythiophene (ProDOT-Me2) to generate the electrochromic polymer. Hermetically sealed electrochromic devices exhibited optical memory of 27 h for a 2% photopic transmittance loss under normal laboratory conditions, and a 171 cm2 electrochromic device was demonstrated.
New insights into the mechanisms of fibrosis and sclerosis in diabetic nephropathy

Progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN) is manifested by gradual scarring of both the renal glomerulus and tubulointerstitial region. Over the past several years, the general understanding of the pathogenic factors that lead to renal fibrosis in DN has expanded considerably. In this review, some of the important factors that appear to be involved in driving this fibrosing process are discussed, with special emphasis on newer findings and insights. It is now clear that multiple cell types in the kidney contribute to progressive fibrosis in DN. New concepts about bradykinin, TGF-β and eNOS signaling as well as JAK/STAT activation and the central role of inflammation in both glomerular and tubulointerstitial fibrosis are discussed.
Public policy, community ownership and clean energy

This paper considers policies for promoting productive investments in the USA, especially as regards the project of building a clean energy economy. The four main policies examined are (i) expanding public investments throughout the economy and gaining the crowding-in benefits that will accrue from such investments, (ii) refocusing the successful but ad hoc, US model of industrial policies, (iii) advancing this agenda of public investments, industrial policy and cooperative/community ownership in ways that benefit all regions of the US equitably and (iv) promoting cooperative and community-based ownership forms, as alternatives to the private corporation.
Secondary pit connections in Hildenbrandia (Rhodophyta, Hildenbrandiales)

Scanning electron microscopic study demonstrates an abundance of secondary pit connections in three species of Hildenbrandia: H. crouanii, H. occidentalis and H. rubra. Usually each cylindrical cell in a vertical file is surrounded laterally by about six files of nonkindred cells. Secondary pit connections are established between most or all of the laterally adjacent files. Even subapical cells may possess secondary connections. Fluorescence microscopy using a DNA-specific fluorochrome confirms ultrastructural indications that cells of Hildenbrandia are uninucleate. The combination of multiple secondary pit connections and a uninucleate condition supports the view of Cabioch & Giraud that secondary pit connections in this group are produced directly—without the formation of conjunctor cells as is typical of most red algae. The abundance of secondary pit connections in these anatomically simple crusts is consistent with a mechanical role, that of promoting coherence of the vertical filaments.
Light scattering from micron-size fibers*

Exact theoretical expressions for scattering of light incident at oblique angles on a cylinder are derived and compared with measurements on aluminized quartz fibers (diameters 0.9–2.2 μm) using a He-Ne laser. The free-electron gas model was used for the dielectric response function for Al. Fitting the angular positions of observed maxima and minima in the scattered intensity to the calculated values gave a sensitive method for determining fiber radii, reproducible within ± 3%–5%. These radii agreed with values from Fraunhofer diffraction at normal incidence within ± 10%–15%. The role of surface plasmon excitation in the scattering of light from cylinders is discussed briefly.
The electrochemistry of coal and coal liquids. II. Cyclic voltammetry of H-coal liquids

The electrochemical behaviour of three H-coal liquids, ASO, ASB and VSO, has been characterized by cyclic voltammetry at glassy carbon electrodes. Voltammograms obtained for the three intact coal liquids in methanol/water solution showed a broad, irreversible anodic wave at +0.5 V versus saturated calomel electrode. In order to determine which components of the coal liquids were primarily responsible for the observed electrochemistry, two column chromatography procedures were employed to separate the ASO, ASB and VSO into several fractions on the basis of functional group content. Subsequent cyclic voltammograms recorded for the resulting chromatographic fractions exhibited substantial anodic current only for the fractions designated as containing predominantly aromatic, polar aromatic/N-heterocyclic, and monophenolic components. Of these, the phenolic fractions appeared to account largely for the +0.5 V wave observed for the intact coal liquids. Chromatographic fractions corresponding to other functional groups exhibited only slight electrochemical activity, or none at all, under the conditions employed.
Fluorite deposition in hydrothermal systems

Abstract During the formation of fluorite deposits fluorite is precipitated either as a consequence of changes in temperature and pressure along the flow path of hydrothermal solutions or due to fluid mixing, or as the result of the interaction of hydrothermal solutions with wall rocks. A decrease in temperature in the flow direction is the most appealing, though still unproven, mechanism of fluorite deposition in Mississippi Valley fluorite deposits. Mixing can produce solutions which are either undersaturated or supersaturated with respect to fluorite. The most important parameters are the temperature, the salinity, and the calcium and fluoride concentration of the fluids prior to mixing. A variety of wall rock reactions can lead to fluorite precipitation. Among these reactions which increase the pH of initially rather acid (pH ≤ 3) hydrothermal solutions are apt to be particularly important.
Sex dependent effect of chronic ethanol consumption in rats on hepatic microsome mediated mutagenicity of benzo[a]pyrene.

Abstract The effect of chronic ethanol consumption by rats on hepatic microsomal metabolism of the procarcinogen benzo[ a ]pyrene (B[ a ]P) was investigated both with respect to induction of microsomal arylhydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) activity and activation of B[ a ]P to a mutagen. In female rats, chronic ethanol ingestion produced a 42% increase in AHH activity ( P P a ]P to a mutagen detectable in the Ames bacterial mutagenesis assay. Hepatic microsomes from male rats on the other hand did not exhibit any significant differences, either in AHH activity or in their capacity to activate B[ a ]P to a mutagen after chronic ethanol feeding.
The Earth's C21 and S21 gravity coefficients and the rotation of the core

Observational results for the earth's C21 and S21 gravity coefficients can be used to constrain the mean equatorial rotation of the core with respect to the mantle. Current satellite gravity solutions suggest the equatorial rotation rate is no larger than 1 x 10 to the -7th times the earth's diurnal spin rate, a limit more than one order of magnitude smaller than the polar rotation rate inferred from the westward drift of the earth's magnetic field. The next generation gravity solutions should improve this constraint by more than one order of magnitude. Implications for the fluid pressure at the core-mantle boundary and for the shape of that boundary are discussed.
Gallium Antimonide-Doped Germanium Clathrate—A p-Type Thermoelectric Cage Structure

Abstract A germanium clathrate compound doped with gallium antimonide has been synthesized and characterized. The structure of Ba 8 Ga 16 (GaSb) x Ge 30−2 x with x =2 was determined using single-crystal X-ray analysis, and the Sb atoms were found to be selectively sited. A slight excess of antimony was confirmed by microprobe elemental analysis, resulting in uncompensated doping of the framework. A positive and relatively high Seebeck coefficient of 100 μV/K indicates this compound is a potential p -type thermoelectric material. Single-crystal temperature-dependent conductivity indicates that the sample behaves as a poor metal. This is the first example of p -doping reported for clathrates.
Acid phosphatase in developing and aging Nippostrongylus brasiliensis.

Abstract 1. 1. Changes in acid phosphatase (orthophosphoric monoester phosphohydrolase) activity are reported in developing and aging Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. 2. 2. The pH optimum and maximal enzyme activity is correlated with the developmental stage and age of the nematode. 3. 3. The enzyme activity was greatest in third-stage infective larvae and 8-day postinfection adults. 4. 4. Isozyme patterns changed dependent on the developmental stage or age of the worm. 5. 5. Enzyme activity was inhibited by low concentrations of mercuric chloride and sodium tartrate. 6. 6. The enzyme preparation hydrolysed, in addition to the artificial substrate α-naphthol acid phosphate, the natural substrates β-glycerol phosphate, glucose-6-phosphate, yeast adenylated (mixed 2′, 3′-isomers), adenosine-3′-monophosphate and adenosine-5′-monophosphate.
On periodically isotonic climate change

Abstract In a view of the past two millennia, is the recent 160-year global warmth an anomaly or a continuation of past climate pattern? In this work, we present two non-parametric χ 2 tests based on the U-test for the isotonic change-point problem proposed in an unpublished work by G. Shen and H. Xu (henceforth abbreviated as SX (unpublished) ) and apply them to the global warming data. Our tests do not require any structure assumption on the underlying the deterministic mean process { μ t } under the periodically isotonic alternative, but accommodate a large class of the models for the random error process. Being more attractive, the two tests obviate estimation of { μ t } and possess explicit asymptotic distributions for short-range dependence data, and have asymptotic power 1 even under the local alternative.
IODINE CONTAINING SUBCELLULAR PARTICLES IN THYROID TISSUE1

Iodine-containing subcellular particles in homogenates of a transplantable thyroid tumor in rats have been shown to be heterogeneous with respect to density and size. Three more or less distinct groups of such particles have been isolated on the basis of particle size. Two of these would be isolated with the “mitochondrial” fraction and one with the “microsomal” fraction by classical techniques. Similar groups of iodine containing particles have been found in nontumorous thyroid tissue from various animals. The distribution of iodine in the particles of hog thyroid is similar to the distribution in the tumor particles. The two groups of smaller iodine containing particles in hog thyroid tissue correspond closely with particles from this tissue which produce a participate iodoprotein in a cell-free system. No role in hormone biosynthesis can yet be assigned to these particles.
Effect of X-ray treatments on Salmonella enterica and spoilage bacteria on skin-on chicken breast fillets and shell eggs

Abstract The objectives of this study were to determine the efficacy of X-ray irradiation on the inactivation of a 3-strain mixture of Salmonella enterica (S. Enteritidis E190-88, S. Typhimurium ATCC 14028, and S. Montevideo ATCC 8387) using an RS 2400 X-ray system on chicken breast fillets and shell eggs and to evaluate the effect of X-ray treatments on the shelf life of chicken breast fillets and shell eggs during 20 day storage at 5 °C (chicken breast fillets (25 g) or whole shell egg samples were treated with the 0.1 and 2.0 and 0.1 and 1.0 kGy, for chicken and shell eggs, respectively, and stored at 5 °C for 20 days. Samples were examined for psychrotrophs and mesophiles counts at 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 days). In this study, the skin on chicken breast fillets (25 g) or whole shell egg (50 g) samples were inoculated by immersing in 0.1% peptone water that contained 108−9 CFU ml−1 of a 3-strain mixture of S. enterica for 1 min in a biosafety cabinet. The samples were then air dried at 22 °C for 30 min (to allow bacterial attachment) in the biosafety cabinet prior to X-ray treatments (0.0, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 kGy). The surviving Salmonella populations on the chicken breast fillets and the shell egg samples were evaluated using a nonselective medium (tryptic soy agar) for 6 h with xylose lysine desoxycholate (XLD) (Difco, Becton Dickinson) selective medium overlay. The plates were then incubated for an additional 18 h at 37 °C. The colonies were counted and the results were expressed as log CFU/g or egg. The results indicated that the 0.5 kGy X-ray treatment significantly reduced the Salmonella population by 1.9 and 3.0 log reduction on chicken breast meat and shell egg samples, respectively, with greater than a 6 log CFU reduction being achieved with 2.0 and 1.0 kGy X-ray for chicken and shell eggs, respectively. Furthermore, treatment with X-ray significantly reduced the initial inherent microbiota on chicken breast fillets and shell eggs and inherent levels were significantly (p
Emery‐dreifuss muscular dystrophy

A man had weakness of humeroperoneal distribution associated with limited range of motion of the cervical spine and elbows. At age 25 he developed permanent atrial paralysis, and a cardiac pacemaker was inserted. Although this case was sporadic, most others have been transmitted as an X-linked recessive trait. Mixed patterns in electromyography and muscle histology have caused nosological confusion, but the unique clinical signs seem to define a distinct form of muscular dystrophy, warranting the designation "emery-Dreifuss" type.
Two-plasmon quantum interference

Surface plasma waves on metals arise from the collective oscillation of many free electrons in unison. These waves are usually quantized by direct analogy to electromagnetic fields in free space, with the surface plasmon, the quantum of the surface plasma wave, playing the same role as the photon. It follows that surface plasmons should exhibit all the same quantum phenomena that photons do. Here, we report a plasmonic version of the Hong–Ou–Mandel experiment, in which we observe unambiguous two-photon quantum interference between plasmons, confirming that surface plasmons faithfully reproduce this effect with the same visibility and mutual coherence time, to within measurement error, as in the photonic case. These properties are important if plasmonic devices are to be employed in quantum information applications, which typically require indistinguishable particles.
The maximum interval number of graphs with given genus

The interval number of a graph G, denoted i(G), is the least positive integer t such that G is the intersection graph of sets, each of which is the union of t compact real intervals. It is known that every planar graph has interval number at most 3 and that this result is best possible. We investigate the maximum value of the interval number for graphs with higher genus and show that the maximum value of the interval number of graphs with genus g is between ⌈√g⌉ and 3 + ⌈√3g⌉. We also show that the maximum arboricity of graphs with genus g is either 1 + ⌈√3g⌉ or 2 + ⌈√3g⌉.
The effect of Mg on the structure and properties of Type 319 aluminum casting alloys

Abstract The precipitation hardening behavior of a Type 319 aluminum alloy (Al–6.7 wt.% Si–3.75 wt.% Cu) with and without 0.45 wt.% Mg has been investigated. It is shown that both θ and Q phase exist in the as-cast samples and are dissolved during solution heat treatment. Subsequent artificial aging results in the precipitation of both the metastable θ′ phase typical of aged alloy 319 and, in the case of the Mg-containing alloy, an additional and extremely small phase, which was identified as Q′ based on previous literature. Both types of precipitates have been characterized using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and three-dimensional atom probe (3DAP) tomography. The Mg-containing alloy exhibits higher strength and lower ductility, presumably due to both solid solution strengthening and the presence of the fine Q′ phase.
COMBINED EFFECTS OF UV-B RADIATION AND NITRATE FERTILIZER ON LARVAL AMPHIBIANS

As part of a global loss of biodiversity, amphibian populations are declining worldwide. Numerous factors may be involved in these declines, including environmental changes and the spread of contaminants. Ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation (280-315 nm) and chemical pollution are two factors that have become increasingly important as contributing to amphibian mortality and, perhaps, to amphibian population declines. Therefore, we studied the combined effects of ambient UV-B radiation and nitrate fertilizer pollution on larval amphibians in outdoor experiments at low and high elevation sites in Oregon. Recent studies have shown that UV-B radiation and nitrate fertilizer pollution have differential effects on amphibians. Some species are more susceptible than others when exposed to either UV-B or to nitrate. Moreover, depending upon other environmental conditions, UV- B levels are often greater in intensity at higher elevation sites compared to lower elevation sites. Therefore, our experiments were designed to include amphibians from both low and high elevations. Very little is known about interpopulational variation regarding the effects of environmental stressors. We tested the combined effects of UV-B and nitrate on larval survival, mass, and length in Pacific treefrogs ( Hyla regilla) and long-toed salamanders (Ambystoma macrodactylum ). In the low elevation experiment, we found that UV-B and nitrate together reduced the mass of larval H. regilla. In the high elevation experiment, we found that UV-B and nitrate together reduced the survival of larval H. regilla. In both the low elevation and the high elevation experiment, nitrate increased the mass of larval A. macrodactylum. However, in the high elevation experiment, this result occurred only when UV-B was blocked. This result indicates that the effects of nitrate addition could depend upon the presence of other factors such as UV-B. Results emphasize the importance of considering the effects of multiple stressors.
Snake bioacoustics: toward a richer understanding of the behavioral ecology of snakes.

ABSTRACT Snakes are frequently described in both popular and technical literature as either deaf or able to perceive only groundborne vibrations. Physiological studies have shown that snakes are actually most sensitive to airborne vibrations. Snakes are able to detect both airborne and groundborne vibrations using their body surface (termed somatic hearing) as well as from their inner ears. The central auditory pathways for these two modes of “hearing” remain unknown. Recent experimental evidence has shown that snakes can respond behaviorally to both airborne and groundborne vibrations. The ability of snakes to contextualize the sounds and respond with consistent predatory or defensive behaviors suggests that auditory stimuli may play a larger role in the behavioral ecology of snakes than was previously realized. Snakes produce sounds in a variety of ways, and there appear to be multiple acoustic Batesian mimicry complexes among snakes. Analyses of the proclivity for sound production and the acoustics of ...
The Impact of State Policies on Vaccine Coverage by Age 13 in an Insured Population

Abstract Purpose To determine the impact of state policies on vaccine coverage among adolescents with managed care insurance. Methods We used the 2003 Health Plan Employer Data and Information Set to determine state-specific hepatitis B and varicella vaccine coverage among children with managed care insurance who turned 13 years in 2002. Our outcomes of interest were receipt of hepatitis B and varicella vaccines by age 13. Utilizing weighted least-squares methods, multiple linear regression models were developed to evaluate the relationship between hepatitis B and varicella vaccine coverage and state policies, while controlling for state sociodemographic variables. Results Across 28 states, adolescent hepatitis B vaccine coverage ranged from 35.3% to 80.5% (mean = 55.3%) and varicella vaccine coverage ranged from 22.9% to 7.6% (mean = 42.3%). In separate multiple regression models, after adjusting for potentially confounding sociodemographic variables, middle school mandates were significantly associated with hepatitis B vaccine coverage ( p = .002) and varicella vaccine coverage ( p = .024). Other policies, including universal purchase of vaccines and availability of philosophic exemptions, were not associated with vaccine coverage in this insured population. Conclusions In this population of insured adolescents, middle school vaccine mandates were the only state policy associated with improved hepatitis B and varicella vaccine coverage. Mandates are an effective method for promoting adolescent immunization.
The cloned dopa decarboxylase gene is developmentally regulated when reintegrated into the drosophila genome

The Drosophila dopa decarboxylase gene, Ddc, functions normally when reintroduced into flies. DNA containing a cloned Ddc gene inserted into a P element transposon was injected into early embryos. Transformants were identified by suppression of the cuticular phenotype of a Ddc mutant allele. The reintegrated genes are expressed in the proper tissue and at the proper stages during development even though their positions within the genome are different from that of the wild-type Ddc gene. Absolute levels of DDC enzyme activity are within 35% of that found in wild-type Canton S flies, the source of the transforming DNA. The transformants' Ddc RNA is indistinguishable from that of wild type. One reintegrated Ddc gene, inserted on the X chromosome, is affected by the dosage compensation mechanism that leads to sex-specific differences in the expression of many X-chromosome genes.
Validity of Parent Report Measures of Vocabulary Development for Children With Down Syndrome

This study investigated the validity of a parent report measure of vocabulary development, the MacArthur Communicative Development Inventory: Words and Sentences (CDI), in children with and without...
Distonic ions of the “ate” class

The gas phase synthesis, structure, and reactivity of distonic negative ions of the “ate” class are described. “Ate”-class negative ions are readily prepared in the gas phase by addition of neutral Lewis acids, such as BF3, BH3, and AlMe3, to molecular anions, carbene negative ions, and radical anions of biradicals. The ions contain either localized σ- or delocalized π-type radical moieties remote from relatively inert borate and aluminate charge sites. The free radical reactivity displayed by these ions appears to be independent of the charge site. As an example, the distonic alkynyl radical (·C≡CBF 3 − ) is highly reactive and undergoes radical coupling reactions with NO2, NO, H2C=CH-CN, and H2C=CH-CH3. Radical-mediated group and atom transfers are observed with O2, CS2, and CH3SSCH3. Furthermore, H-atom abstraction reactions are observed, in accordance with the predicted high C-H bond strength of this species [DH298(H-C2BF 3 − )=130.8 kcal mol−1]. High level ab initio molecular orbital calculations on the prototype “ate”-class distonic ion · CH2BH 3 − and its conventional isomer CH3BH 2 ·− reveal that CH3BH 2 ·− is 3.2 kcal/mol more stable than the α-distonic form. However, the calculations also show that CH3BH 2 ·− is unstable with respect to electron detachment, and only the α-distonic form ·CH2BH 3 − should be experimentally observed in the gas phase.
A role for abdominal vagal afferents in lipopolysaccharide-induced hypotension

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) mimics many of the effects of septic shock, including hypotension. LPS-induced hypotension has been attributed to nitric oxide (NO) activation of leukocytes, oxidants, cytokines, and other causes. However, there are some observations inconsistent with these "biochemical" causes. This study investigated a "physiological" mechanism: Are abdominal vagal afferent neurons involved in LPS-induced hypotension? The involvement of NO and leukocytes was also considered. Intravenous LPS (5 mg/kg) was used to induce hypotension in anesthetized rats. Subdiaphragmatic vagal activity was blocked with perivagal lidocaine (2%). Intravenous capsaicin (CAP, 1 mg/kg) or resiniferatoxin (RTX, 1 microg/kg) were used to inhibit afferent neural activity about 30 min before LPS. CAP and RTX have different receptors on different afferent nerves. Blood pressure, plasma nitrate and nitrite (NOx), stable products of NO, and leukocytes were measured over 3 h. LPS-induced hypotension was markedly attenuated by perivagal lidocaine and i.v. RTX, but was not affected by i.v. CAP. LPS caused a marked, transient decrease in leukocytes, mainly neutrophils, which was over within 10 min. This early leukocyte response was not affected by treatments that reduced LPS-induced hypotension. NO increased 3 h after LPS, and the changes in NO were not associated with effects of the pretreatments on blood pressure. It was concluded that abdominal vagal afferents are early mediators of LPS-induced hypotension. Also, NO and leukocytes were not direct mediators of the hypotension.
Plasma simulation with few particles.

Abstract A numerical method of plasma simulation is described which allows one to simulate Vlasov plasmas with very few degrees of freedom. Linear effects can be simulated by an amount of information corresponding to less than 100 particles, nonlinear effects require less than 500 “particles” in one spatial and one velocity dimension. The method is based on replacing the infinite real eigenvalue spectrum of the free streaming terms of the Vlasov equation by a finite discrete spectrum. An imaginary damping term is artificially added to the eigenvalues, and, thus, recurrence effects are minimized.
Electron microscopic studies of small cytoplasmic particles (microsomes)

Abstract Submicroscopic particles from the cytoplasmic fraction of mouse liver homogenates have been isolated by differential centrifugation. Electron microscopic studies show that there are three distinctly different elements. They can be identified by size and by their density to the electron beam. They cannot ordinarily be confused with mitochondria or mitochondrial fragments. The large particles are composed of a sticky substance and probably possess a membrane. The large components probably contain the small ones which are spilled out, evidently unaltered, upon rupture of the membrane. The intermediate particles are homogeneous and lipoidal or at least contain many unsaturated bonds. Chaining is frequent in both the large and the small particles.
Microinvasive squamous carcinoma of the vulva

The clinico-pathologic aspects of 15 cases of microinvasive squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva are analyzed and the literature on this subject is reviewed. Three patients in this group and 12.5% of the 279 reported cases, all with 5 mm or less depth of invasion, have had lymph node metastases and/or recurrences or have ultimately died of their disease. The prognostic value of lymphatic/vascular permeation, the degree of cellular anaplasia, the pattern as well as the depth of invasion, all have been alluded to, and the latter is popularized. It is noted, however, that the arbitrarily chosen 3 or 5 mm depth of invasion alone does not allow for consistent identification of individuals with a negligible risk for groin lymph node metastasis. There is indeed documentation of nodal metastases in 20 of 178 (11%) of the reported cases with 1-3.5 mm invasion. It is suggested that the level of invasion, as determined by Clark's classification, which provides a histologic reference point, may correlate better with the incidence of groin nodal metastasis, and its use may allow for individualized therapy and eventually aid in identifying cases of microinvasive carcinoma of the vulva that could safely be treated without lymphadenectomy.
Carboxyl-Terminal Fragments of Human Parathyroid Hormone in Parathyroid Tumors: Unique New Source of Immunogens for the Production of Antisera Potentially Useful in the Radioimmunoassay of Parathyroid Hormonein Human Serum*

We have found large quantities of immunoreactive carboxyl-terminal fragmentsof human parathyroid hormone (hPTH) in a previously discarded fraction [the 7.5% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) supernate] generated during extraction of intact hPTH from hyperfunctioning parathyroid tissue by the urea-TCA procedure. It is well established that serum RIAs directed toward the carboxyl-terminal region of hPTH are superior to those directed toward the amino-terminal region in the differential diagnosis of patients with suspected chronic parathyroid dysfunction. However, antisera that react with the carboxyl-terminal region of hPTH are not yet available for general use for these assays because of a lack of suitable hPTH immunogens. We immunized seven guinea pigs and two goats with the desalted 7.5% TCA supernate (containing about 2% carboxyl- terminal hPTH fragments); three of the guinea pigs and one goat produced high affinity antisera with predominant specificity for the carboxyl-terminal region of PTH. One of the guine...
Depletion of dopamine in the nucleus accumbens prevents the generation of locomotion by metabotropic glutamate receptor activation

The contribution of dopamine (DA) to the locomotion elicited by activation of nucleus accumbens (NAcc) metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs) was investigated in the rat. Different groups of rats were pretreated with bilateral microinjections of either 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) or its vehicle into the NAcc and, on separate tests starting 10 days later, were tested for locomotion following microinjections (into the same site) of saline, the mGluR agonist, 1-aminocyclopentane-trans-1,3-dicarboxylic acid [(1S, 3R)-ACPD, 0.5 nmol/side] and amphetamine (AMPH, 6.8 nmol/side). DA levels at the microinjection sites were significantly depleted in 6-OHDA-treated rats (42-99% depletions compared to control values obtained in vehicle-treated rats). In contrast to the increased locomotion observed in non-lesioned animals, rats pretreated with 6-OHDA showed no increase in locomotor activity in response to (1S, 3R)-ACPD or AMPH when these were microinjected into the NAcc. The two groups of rats were indistinguishable when tested following NAcc saline. These findings suggest that, as with AMPH, enhanced locomotion produced by NAcc mGluR activation is dependent on intact DA neurotransmission in this site.
MODULATION OF IL-1-INDUCED CHEMOKINE EXPRESSION IN HUMAN MESANGIAL CELLS THROUGH ALTERATIONS IN REDOX STATUS

Abstract The effects of altering intracellular redox potential on interleukin 1 (IL-1)-induced MCP-1 gene expression by human mesangial cells were examined. Thiol containing antioxidants significantly increased cellular glutathione content while decreasing glutathione disulfide levels. These antioxidants inhibited IL-1 induction of MCP-1 mRNA expression. This correlated with a decrease in DNA binding activity of NFκB, a transcription factor thought to be necessary for MCP-1 gene expression Incubation of mesangial cells with the oxidizing agents diamide or hydrogen peroxide did not upregulate MCP-1 gene expression, and prevented IL-1 induction of MCP-1 mRNA. Oxidants appeared to inhibit the degradation of IκB, and the translocation of NF-κB to the nucleus. Non-oxidative depletion of intracellular glutathione also attenuated the effects of IL-1 on MCP-1 expression. These data indicate that the intracellular redox potential is a critical determinant of cell activation by IL-1. The observation that both oxidizing and reducing environments are inhibitory suggests that redox changes can affect the IL-1 signal tranduction pathway at multiple points.