cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Productivity Cycles in Public and Private Manufacturing Sectors: Evidence from Turkey

This paper compares the productivity cycles of public and private manufacturing sectors in Turkey by using a regime shifting model applied through the multimove Gibbs- sampling approach over the quarterly period 1988Q1:2006:Q4. By considering timing of the business cycles for the sample period, it is shown that: 1) the public sector has higher productivity growth rates compared to the growth rates of private sector and total productivities, in both low and high productivity growth regimes; 2) the productivity in public sector is procyclical in periods of real shocks, such as stagnation or earthquakes (i.e., 1989 and 1999 crises); 3) the productivity in private sector is procyclical in periods of financial shocks (i.e., 1994 currency crisis, 1998 Russian crisis and 2001 financial crisis); 4) the productivity in the public sector has a smoothing effect in terms of reducing the effects of private sector productivity cycles.
Bartolomeo Gosio, 1863-1944: an appreciation.

Publisher Summary Bartolomeo Gosio, the Italian physician, made diverse and important contributions to microbiology. One such contribution was the discovery of a pure fungal metabolite with antibiotic properties. Gosio developed a sensitive, smell-based test for the presence of arsenic using S. brevicaulis . Gosio studied the metabolism of cholera and cholera-like bacteria. Mycophenolic acid was discovered in attempts to understand the major problem of pellagra. Gosio Gas forms a crystalline complex with mercuric chloride in hydrochloric acid, this mixture is often referred to as Biginelli's Solution. Mycophenolic acid has undergone a wondrous journey to become a much used immunosuppressant for organ transplantation. The microbial volatilization of arsenic and other metalloids is now of much concern in connection with toxicity and environmental problems.
Genetic Factors Determine the Contribution of Leukotrienes to Acute Inflammatory Responses

Leukotrienes (LT) are potent lipid mediators synthesized by the 5-lipoxygenase pathway of arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism. LT have been implicated in a broad spectrum of inflammatory processes. To investigate the influence of genetic factors on the contribution of LT to acute inflammation, we generated congenic 5-lipoxygenase-deficient 129, C57BL/6 (B6), and DBA/1Lac (DBA) mouse lines. Topical application of AA evoked a vigorous inflammatory response in 129 and DBA mice, whereas only a modest response was seen in B6 animals. The response to AA in 129 and DBA strains is LT dependent. In contrast, LT make little contribution to this response in B6 mice. AA-induced inflammation in B6 mice is prostanoid dependent, since this response was substantially reduced by treating B6 mice with a cyclooxygenase inhibitor. These data suggest that prostanoids are essential for AA-induced cutaneous inflammation in B6 mice, whereas LT are the major mediators of this response in 129 and DBA strains. In contrast, the response to AA in the peritoneal cavity is robust in the 129 and B6 strains, but was significantly blunted in DBA mice, showing that strain differences in the response to AA are tissue specific. Variations in these and other experimental models of inflammation appear to correlate directly with the ability of a particular mouse strain and a specific tissue to respond to LT, specifically LTC4. Taken together, these findings indicate that the relative contribution of prostanoids and LT to inflammatory responses is variable not only between strains but also between different tissues within these inbred mouse lines.
Altered fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 stability promotes prostate cancer progression.

Fibroblast growth factor receptor 4 (FGFR-4) is expressed at significant levels in almost all human prostate cancers, and expression of its ligands is ubiquitous. A common polymorphism of FGFR-4 in which arginine (Arg388) replaces glycine (Gly388) at amino acid 388 is associated with progression in human prostate cancer. We show that the FGFR-4 Arg388 polymorphism, which is present in most prostate cancer patients, results in increased receptor stability and sustained receptor activation. In patients bearing the FGFR-4 Gly388 variant, expression of Huntingtin-interacting protein 1 (HIP1), which occurs in more than half of human prostate cancers, also results in FGFR-4 stabilization. This is associated with enhanced proliferation and anchorage-independent growth in vitro. Our findings indicate that increased receptor stability and sustained FGFR-4 signaling occur in most human prostate cancers due to either the presence of a common genetic polymorphism or the expression of a protein that stabilizes FGFR-4. Both of these alterations are associated with clinical progression in patients with prostate cancer. Thus, FGFR-4 signaling and receptor turnover are important potential therapeutic targets in prostate cancer.
Dipyridine Chromium(VI) Oxide

[26412-88-4] C10H10CrN2O3 (MW 258.22) InChI = 1S/2C5H5N.Cr.3O/c2*1-2-4-6-5-3-1;;;;/h2*1-5H;;;;/q;;+2;;2*-1 InChIKey = LYUSQVMBCUPELV-UHFFFAOYSA-N (reagent for oxidizing alcohols to carbonyl compounds) Alternate Names: Collins reagent; chromium(VI) oxide–pyridine. Solubility: sol CH2Cl2; (Z)-1,2-dichloroethylene; pyridine; CHCl3. Form Supplied in: red crystals; not commercially available. Preparative Methods: prepared in 85–91% yield from Chromium(VI) Oxide and Pyridine.2, 3 Caution: the reaction is extremely exothermic. The chromium(VI) oxide should be added to dry pyridine at such a rate that the temperature does not exceed 20 °C and in such a way that the oxide mixes rapidly with pyridine. Other chromium(VI) oxide–pyridine complexes are known. These include the Ratcliffe reagent (dipyridine chromium(VI) oxide prepared in situ in CH2Cl2),4, 5 and the Sarett reagent (CrO3·(C5H5N)2 in pyridine).6 The preparation and workup of the Sarett reagent is sometimes tedious. The hygroscopic nature of the Collins reagent and its propensity to inflame may be avoided by the in situ preparation of the complex according to the Ratcliffe procedure. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: Caution: the Collins reagent is extremely hygroscopic; exposure to moisture rapidly converts it to the yellow dipyridinium dichromate. The reagent should be stored at 0 °C under nitrogen or argon in a sealed container, protected from light. All chromium(VI) reagents must be handled with care; their mutagenicity is well documented.7 This reagent should be prepared and handled in a fume hood.
RNase Activities Are Reduced Concomitantly with Conservation of Total Cellular RNA and Ribosomes in O2-Deprived Seedling Roots of Maize

The effect of O2 deprivation on the activities of RNases and levels of total cellular RNA and ribosomes in seedling roots of maize (Zea mays L.) was investigated. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gels containing RNA were used to distinguish RNase isoenzymes by apparent molecular mass. Since O2 deprivation causes a decrease in cytosolic pH from approximately pH 7.4 to 6.4 and an elevation in cytosolic Ca2+, RNase levels were examined in the physiological range of cytosolic pH and in the presence of Ca2+, Mg2+, Zn2+, ethylenediaminetetracetate, or ethyleneglycol-bis([beta]-aminoethyl ether)-N,N[prime]-tetraacetic acid. The activity of a number of RNases present in aerobic roots was reduced in response to O2 deprivation. Several RNases with a pH optimum of 6.4 were rapidly down-regulated by O2 deprivation. Spectrophotometric assay of extracts revealed that RNase activity was higher at pH 6.4 than at 7.2, and ethylenediaminetetracetate-insensitive RNase activity decreased in response to O2 deprivation. The decrease in RNase activity was correlated with no loss of total cellular RNA or ribosomes, despite a 4-fold decrease in run-on transcription of rRNA in isolated nuclei. Regulation of RNase activity may facilitate the conservation of nontranslating ribosomes and poorly translated mRNAs during O2 deprivation.
Multidimensional dynamics in surface reactions

The conceptual starting point in surface dynamics is the potential energy surface, the most celebrated of which is the one proposed by Lennard-Jones 65 years ago. The Lennard- Jones potential considers two adsorption states as a molecule approaches the surface: a molecular precursor state and a chemisorption state. While this simple model has contributed much to the development of surface reaction dynamics, its one-dimensionality is of significant limitation. Molecule-surface interactions are inherently multidimensional. For example, molecular internal motions, substrate motions, and the relative orientations of a molecule to surface atoms are all important in determining the chemical consequence of a surface process. These issues are illustrated using recent examples involving polyatomic species. In the first example, electronic excitation/de-excitation of adsorbed NH3 results in internal vibrational excitation, which can couple efficiently to the adsorbate-surface coordinate and results in desorption. In the second example, the thermal desorption of CH3 from GaAs can lead to vibrational excitation in the product. The third example shows that a substantial amount of energy released by adsorbate-surface bond formation can be transferred to the intramolecular modes, leading to the ejection of energetic products.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Transvenous permanent pacemaker implantation in neonates

We describe a technique of transvenous permanent of-age, patient 1 required lead advancement, as the pacemaker implantation in neonates. Two consecuintracardiac loop had straightened out. The abdominal tive neonates with congenital atrioventricular block incision was reopened, and the anchoring sleeve was and impaired ventricular function at birth underwent also exposed. The non-absorbable suture around the permanent pacemaker implantation via the transvensleeve was identified and cut. Using a standard stylet, ous route. The patients weighed 2.1 and 2.6 kg, the lead could easily be readvanced to create a loop respectively, and the pacemaker was implanted in in the atrium (Fig. 1). The sleeve was re-fixed, and both cases on day 2 of life. Informed consent was the abdominal incision closed. Further follow-up for obtained from the parents for this procedure. Under 12 months has been uneventful. Patient 2 has had no general anesthesia, venous access was gained by complications over a follow-up of 4 months. percutaneous puncture of the left subclavian vein. A The choice of systems for permanent pacing in 7F unipolar or 6F bipolar steroideluting active fixaneonates has hitherto been dictated by patient size. tion lead (Medtronic BY, The Netherlands) was However, lead performance and longevity are greater introduced and fixed in the right ventricular apex in a for transvenous steroid-eluting leads when compared standard fashion, via a 7F peelaway introducer. After with their epicardial equivalents [1]. Important congood lead thresholds had been confirmed, the exsiderations for transvenous pacing in neonates are: travascular portion of the lead was tunnelled subcuta(1) techniques to accommodate for somatic growth, neously to the anterior abdominal wall. The generator to prevent lead stretching and malfunction. We have (Medtronic Thera SR or St. Jude Microny SR) was opted to use active fixation leads, to provide stable implanted in the anterior abdominal wall via a small lead position in the ventricle. This also allows a loop abdominal incision. The sleeve of the lead was of lead to be left in the atrium to accommodate for secured subcutaneously at its entry point into the growth; (2) choice of site for placement of the subclavian vein using non-absorbable suture material. generator. In patients .3 kg weight, a single chamber At follow-up, excellent sensing and pacing thresgenerator can be positioned in the infraclavicular holds were obtained in both patients. At 14-monthsregion, in a subpectoral position. In smaller patients, as described here, the generator is located in the anterior abdominal wall, as for a standard epicardial *Corresponding author. Tel.: 131-30-250-4002; fax: 131-30-250generator. The transvenous lead is then tunnelled to 5347. E-mail address: nsreeram@casema.net (N. Sreeram). this location. Lead advancement is relatively simple.
The relationship between behaviours exhibited by children with autism and maternal stress

The present study investigated the relationship between behaviours exhibited by children with pervasive developmental disorders, particularly autism, and maternal stress levels. Participants consis...
Home Equity Conversion Instruments with Fixed Term to Maturity: Alternatives to End of Term Pay-Off

Standard reverse annuity mortgages obligate the lender to take on the risk that an elderly homeowner will desire to remain in a residence after the RAM has reached maturity. In this case, the best the lender can hope for is that the property will have appreciated sufficiently that the loan can be carried at interest only. There is a possibility for lender loss but not gain over contracted return. Alternatives to the standard RAM are explored in this paper with most attention devoted to shared appreciation and shared equity RAMs. These alternative instruments appear to solve the problem of maturity risk.
Rethinking the Control of Nuisance Variables in Theory Testing

In testing hypotheses, researchers frequently have used multiple regression analysis to control for nuisance variables (i.e., potential confounding variables that are correlated with hypothesized causal variables). In this paper, we highlight limitations of this control strategy, and we discuss fundamental issues that should be considered in deciding whether to use it. Ultimately, we suggest the use of multiple regression analysis sometimes may not improve causal understanding and may actually limit the generalizability of results. Instead of the common practice of controlling for nuisance variables, we suggest that looking at shared variance frequently is a more appropriate test of a theoretical hypothesis.
Phase Behavior of Poly(methyl methacrylate)/Poly(vinylidene fluoride) Blends in the Presence of High‐Pressure Carbon Dioxide

Full Paper: Previous efforts have demonstrated that high-pressure CO 2 can markedly influence the phase behavior of amorphous polymer blends. In this work, we examine the effect of high-pressure CO 2 on the miscibility ofblends composed of glassy poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and semi-crystalline poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF). Blends of this type are known to exhibit lower critical solution temperature (LCST) behavior with partial miscibility up to 50-60 wt.-% PVDF at ambient conditions. Two miscible PMMA/PVDF blends have been systematically exposed to high-pressure CO 2 at 35°C and pressures below and above the critical pressure. Small-angle X-ray scattering reveals that the scattering intensity at high scattering angles shows little dependence on pressure at low CO 2 pressures, but increases substantially at relatively high CO 2 pressures. Transmission electron microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry analyses confirm that the blends are initially quasi-homogeneous with diffuse PVDF-rich dispersions and a single glass transition temperature. After exposure to relatively high CO 2 pressures, how-ever, the PVDF is found to crystallize within the PMMA-rich matrix. Thermal recycling of these blends promotes homogenization, indicating that such CO 2 -altered phase behavior is reversible.
β-Radiation to INHIBIT Recurrence of In-Stent Restenosis: Clinical and Angiographic Results of the Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind Study

Background: Clinical trials utilizing gamma radiation therapy have demonstrated a reduction in the recurrence of restenosis for patients with in-stent restenosis (ISR). INHIBIT (Intimal Hyperplasia Inhibition with Beta In-stent Trial) is a multicenter randomized double blind study designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 32P (a pure beta emitter) …
A study of thiocyanate ion adsorption on mercury by chronocoulometry

Abstract The adsorption of thiocyanate anion on mercury was measured by means of a new electrochemical technique,chronocoulometry. Extensive adsorption of Hg(SCN)2 was also discovered and the influence of free thiocyanate ion on this adsorption was evaluated. An interesting unexpected result of this work was the demonstration of an apparent negative integral double-layer capacitance for mercury over part of the potential range investigated.
“Phantom bite”: Classification and treatment

If I? hantom bite” (PB) is a term coined to describe a single hypochondriacal delusion on the part of patients that their dental occlusion is abnormal.‘** The delusion is sustained, often for many years, and is rarely amenable to symptom-directed treatment, for example, occlusal adjustment or prosthodontic restoration of the occlusion. PB patients are intensely involved with and superficially knowledgeable about details of dental anatomy, physiology, and restorative dentistry. At consultation they frequently present numerous radiographs of their teeth, diagnostic casts, and, lately, various plastic intraoral devices for inspection and evaluation. A skilled and carefully conducted history will reveal a long succession of dental treatments, most frequently of short duration because the patient decided not to continue treatment with the dentist after the first or second visit. Occasionally, patient-doctor relationships last for an extended period of time. More rarely still, dental treatment may even progress to the finished restoration before the patient invariably rejects and terminates treatment. This article will show that PB patients follow a consistent pattern that the dentist may learn to identify. Because these patients are a source of great frustration, financial loss, and potential litigation, early identification of such patients is valuable to the dentist.
The oxidation behaviour of carbon reinforced glass matrix composites

Abstract Oxidation experiments have been performed on carbon fibre reinforced glass matrix composites as a function of glass composition. The oxidation resistance of the carbon fibres has been shown to be related to the microstructure of the glass and the adherence of the glass to the carbon fibres. Coating of the fibres with a SiC CVD precursor has been shown to improve the oxidation resistance of the fibres. However, post-exposure mechanical characterization has shown an inverse relationship between oxidation resistance and the ability of the composites to exhibit “graceful” failures.
Improved approximation algorithms for maximum cut and satisfiability problems using semidefinite programming

We present randomized approximation algorithms for the maximum cut (MAX CUT) and maximum 2-satisfiability (MAX 2SAT) problems that always deliver solutions of expected value at least.87856 times the optimal value. These algorithms use a simple and elegant technique that randomly rounds the solution to a nonlinear programming relaxation. This relaxation can be interpreted both as a semidefinite program and as an eigenvalue minimization problem. The best previously known approximation algorithms for these problems had performance guarantees of 1/2 for MAX CUT and 3/4 or MAX 2SAT. Slight extensions of our analysis lead to a.79607-approximation algorithm for the maximum directed cut problem (MAX DICUT) and a.758-approximation algorithm for MAX SAT, where the best previously known approximation algorithms had performance guarantees of 1/4 and 3/4, respectively. Our algorithm gives the first substantial progress in approximating MAX CUT in nearly twenty years, and represents the first use of semidefinite programming in the design of approximation algorithms.
Regulation of IL-2β receptor expression and β-chain mRNA by human thymocytes

The high affinity form of the human IL-2 receptor (IL-2R) has two known components, the IL-2R alpha (p55) and the IL-2R beta chain (p75). We have previously shown that recombinant IL-2 (rIL-2) could induce the expression of the alpha-chain (p55) on T cells and thymocytes, and increase this expression following suboptimal activation with concanavalin A (Con A) in combination with IL-2. An increase in the accumulation of IL-2R alpha-specific mRNA induced by rIL-2 in T cells and thymocytes had also been documented. We report here that the expression of IL-2R beta on the cell surface can be demonstrated on human thymocytes by the binding of Mik beta1, a MoAb directed against an epitope of the beta-chain. The IL-2R beta chain is constitutively expressed on freshly isolated thymocytes; this expression can be increased in thymocytes activated with Con A in combination with IL-2 or tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA). Blocking the formation of high affinity receptors with a MoAb directed against the alpha-chain of the receptor results in an increase in the display of IL-2R beta as evidenced by binding of MoAb Mik beta1. The accumulation of IL-2R-beta-specific mRNA is observed in freshly isolated thymocytes and it is increased in thymocytes cultured with rIL-2 alone, with Con A, and further enhanced by the addition of rIL-2 in combination with Con A or with TPA. Cyclosporine (CsA), which inhibits the accumulation of lymphokine-specific mRNA of thymocytes, does not inhibit the induction of the accumulation of IL-2R beta-specific mRNA. This is analogous to its effect on the expression of the alpha-chain (p55), and the accumulation of alpha-chain-specific mRNA.
Objective functional outcomes and patient satisfaction after silicone metacarpophalangeal arthroplasty for rheumatoid arthritis.

Purpose Patient satisfaction is an essential measure of quality of care for rheumatoid arthritis. Prior research demonstrates that patient satisfaction improves after silicone metacarpophalangeal arthroplasty (SMPA) despite minimal change in hand function. The purpose of this study was to identify the level of objective functional recovery that yields satisfaction after SMPA. We hypothesized that measurable gains in objective hand function after SMPA will discriminate between satisfied and dissatisfied patients. Methods In this prospective, multicenter, cohort study, we observed 46 patients with rheumatoid arthritis and metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint subluxation for 2 years after reconstructive surgery. We derived satisfaction scores from the Michigan Hand Outcomes Questionnaire, ranging from 0 (least satisfied) to 100 (most satisfied), and dichotomized them using the Cohen large effect size. We measured hand function at baseline and follow-up including strength (grip strength and pinch strength), finger position (extensor lag and ulnar drift), and MCP arc of motion. We constructed receiver operating characteristic curves to identify optimal cutoffs in hand function that correspond with satisfaction. Results At 2 years of follow-up, patients who achieved an extension lag of 30° or less were considered satisfied, which represented a 52% improvement (preoperative lag=63°). Similarly, patients who gained improvement in ulnar drift from an average of preoperatively 62° to 9° postoperatively were satisfied. Finally, patients who achieved an improvement in MCP arc of motion from an average of 21° to 31° postoperatively were satisfied. No improvements in grip or pinch strength corresponded with postoperative patient satisfaction. Conclusions Patients were satisfied with only modest gains in grip and pinch strength after silicone metacarpophalangeal arthroplasty. However, maintaining finger position, without recurrence of ulnar drift or extensor lag, and MCP arc of motion corresponded with patient satisfaction in the postoperative period. Type of study/level of evidence Therapeutic II.
Insider Trading in Convergent Markets

Optimal trading strategies are found for an insider who is trading in two convergent stocks and is bound by margin constraints.
The Temporal Relationship Between Momentary Affective States and Condom Use in Depressed Adolescents

Depressed adolescents are more likely to engage in sexual risk behaviors than their non-depressed peers. The objectives of this study were (1) to examine whether affective states predicted subsequent condom use, directly or indirectly through contextual factors and (2) to compare results obtained from structural equation models versus non-linear mixed effects models. This study used ecological momentary assessment to collect data on in-the-moment affective states and sexual behavior from 51 depressed adolescents (7 male, 44 female) aged 15–22 years. The association between positive and negative affect and condom use during a subsequent sex event was explored using several structural equation models and non-linear mixed effects models. Potential mediation by substance use before sex, partner type, reason for sex, and who wanted sex was examined. Neither positive nor negative affect was directly associated with condom use in any models; however, negative affect was associated with increased likelihood of sex with a non-main partner, which, in turn, was associated with increased condom use. Both structural equation models and non-linear mixed effects models successfully modeled the relationship between affect and condom use in momentary data while correctly accounting for the correlation of multiple observations from the same individual. The benefit of structural equation modeling was the ability to directly model the mediation of this effect by contextual factors. In this sample of depressed adolescents, negative and positive affect did not appear to be directly predictive of condom use during a subsequent sex event, although may indirectly affect condom use through sex with a non-main partner.
Integrating Geodetic and Geologic Data in Maps of Seismic Hazard: Workshop on Geodetic and Geologic Data Sets in the Northern Walker Lane; Reno, Nevada, 21–22 April 2009

The northern Walker Lane (NWL) comprises a complex network of active faults in northwestern Nevada and northeastern California. It is bounded on the west by the Sierra Nevada and on the east by the extensional Basin and Range Province. Because deformation is distributed across sets of discontinuous faults, it is particularly challenging to integrate geologic and geodetic data in the NWL to assess the region's seismic hazard. Recent Global Positioning System (GPS) measurements show that roughly 1 centimeter per year of relative displacement is accumulating across a relatively narrow zone, but it is not clear where or how much of this strain might ultimately be released in damaging earthquakes.
The need for recognition and implementation of a sinkhole-floodplain hazard designation in urban karst terrains

Soluble rock terrains pose increased flood hazards because of a demographic shift from the upper Middle West and metropolitan Northeast to the “Sun Belt.” Approximately one-half of the soluble rock terrains in the continental United States occur in the Sun Belt. Urbanization of karst terrains generally increases the frequency and magnitude of sinkhole flooding and the probability of collapse. Soil erosion attendant with urbanization results in silt deposition in depressions, reducing sinkhole runoff storage capacity and regolith hydraulic conductivity. A new flood-hazard designation termed the sinkhole flood-plain is advocated for use by federal mortgage agencies in karst terrains so that sinkhole-related flooding can be minimized. A four-phase methodology for assessing sinkhole flood hazards in a rapidly urbanizing karst terrain is developed, using examples from central Tennessee and southern Kentucky.
Phylogenetic evidence for a shift in the mode of mammalian body size evolution at the Cretaceous-Palaeogene boundary

Summary Phylogenetic comparative methods provide a powerful way of addressing classic questions about tempo and mode of phenotypic evolution in the fossil record, such as whether mammals increased in body size diversity after the Cretaceous-Palaeogene (K-Pg) extinction. Most often, these kinds of questions are addressed in the context of variation in evolutionary rates. Shifts in the mode of phenotypic evolution provide an alternative and, in some cases, more realistic explanation for patterns of trait diversity in the fossil record, but these kinds of processes are rarely tested for. In this study, I use a time-calibrated phylogeny of living and fossil Mammaliaformes as a framework to test novel models of body size evolution derived from palaeontological theory. Specifically, I ask whether the K-Pg extinction resulted in a change in rates of body size evolution or release from a constrained adaptive zone. I found that a model comprising an Ornstein–Uhlenbeck process until the K-Pg event and a Brownian motion process from the Cenozoic onwards was the best supported model for these data. Surprisingly, results indicate a lower absolute rate of body size evolution during the Cenozoic than during the Mesozoic. This is explained by release from a stationary OU process that constrained realized disparity. Despite a lower absolute rate, body size disparity has in fact been increasing since the K-Pg event. The use of time-calibrated phylogenies of living and extinct taxa and realistic, process-based models provides unparalleled power in testing evolutionary hypotheses. However, researchers should take care to ensure that the models they use are appropriate to the question being tested and that the parameters estimated are interpreted in the context of the best fitting model.
ECOPHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSES OF THREE RIPARIAN GRAMINOIDS TO CHANGES IN THE SOIL WATER TABLE

We examined the effect of changes in soil water table on the water relations, leaf gas exchange, and aboveground biomass of three riparian graminoids native to the semiarid western United States: Carex lanuginosa, Juncus balticus, and Carex nebrascensis. All three species co-occur at the wettest microhabitats within riparian corridors, but J. balticus and C. nebrascensis extend into drier areas. Lowering the water table to 1 m had little effect on the leaf gas exchange characteristics of the three graminoids. In the greenhouse, experimental reductions of the water table when plants had three fully mature leaves did not affect gas exchange rates or water potential in any of the three species. Lowering the water table when plants had one fully mature leaf resulted in limited differences between plants grown under high and low water table in J. balticus and C. lanuginosa. Further, these differences were only apparent after long periods of depressed water table (19 wk). In the field, rates of leaf gas exchang...
Dirichlet boundary state in a linear dilaton background.

Dirichlet branes have emerged as important objects in studying nonperturbative string theory. It is important to generalize these objects to more general backgrounds other than the usual flat background. The simplest case is the linear dilaton condensate. The usual Dirichlet boundary condition violates conformal invariance in such a background. We show that by switching on a certain boundary interaction, conformal invariance is restored. An immediate application of this result is to two-dimensional string theory. {copyright} {ital 1996 The American Physical Society.}
Total reflection of surface waves by deep water

A mechanism is described by which surface gravity waves generated in shallow water may be totally reflected from deep water. The mechanism by which waves generated in deep water may be “captured” is also discussed.
A review of the typification of Metasequoia glyptostroboides (Taxodiaceae)

A review is presented of the original material cited in the protologue of Metasequoia glyptostroboides. It is determined that there were two syntypes and seven paratypes. One of the syntypes is designated as lectotype.
Family Adherence as a Predictor of Child Outcome in an Intervention for Pediatric Obesity: Different Outcomes for Self-Report and Objective Measures

This study examined the relations between specific adherence variables and child outcomes among a sample of 60 families participating in a family-based pediatric obesity program. Adherence was measured using both objective and self-report methods. Family adherence to the treatment protocol significantly predicted child outcomes. However, parent self-report measures of adherence were better predictors of child outcome than objective measures. The importance of including parent self-report measures of adherence for behaviors outside of the treatment setting was demonstrated in this study. Pediatric obesity treatment should emphasize the importance of modifying parent behaviors as a means for improving child outcomes.
Robotics: self-replication from random parts.

What makes biological replication so effective is the ability of the DNA template to select the right building blocks (nucleotides) from a set of randomly scattered parts, combined with the ability to correct copying errors. This enables living systems, in time, to generate exponential numbers of accurate copies of themselves. A team from MIT's Center for Bits and Atoms has developed machines that use a similar two-step process for the autonomous self-replication of a reconfigurable string of parts from randomly positioned components. Such robots, suitably miniaturized and mass-produced, could constitute self-fabricating systems whose assembly is brought about by the parts themselves. Autonomously self-replicating machines have long caught the imagination1,2,3 but have yet to acquire the sophistication of biological systems, which assemble structures from disordered building blocks. Here we describe the autonomous self-replication of a reconfigurable string of parts from randomly positioned input components. Such components, if suitably miniaturized and mass-produced, could constitute self-fabricating systems whose assembly is brought about by the parts themselves.
Reliability defect detection and screening during processing-theory and implementation

The authors derive a model that relates electrical in-process measurements to reliability defect occurrence. The model begins with an understanding of reliability defect physics and statistics and then uses elements of semiconductor manufacture yield modeling. An experiment, using intensive microscopic inspections, that was used to verify this model is described. The type and nature of yield and reliability defect monitors and the use of in-process electrical measurements of these monitors for reliability defect detection are described. The implementation of 'maverick' screens for a highly defective product is outlined, and the improvement in reliability that these screens provide is estimated. >
Hybrid adaptive control for the tracking of rigid-link electrically-driven robots

In this paper, we design a hybrid adaptive/robust tracking controller for rigid-link electrically-driven (RLED) robot manipulators. The controller is hybrid in the sense that an adaptive controller is used to compensate for parametric uncertainties in the rigid-link equation while an adaptive robust controller corrects for the typically ignored electrical actuator dynamics. That is, in spite of these detrimental uncertainties and effects, we are still able to ensure global asymptotic stability of the link position tracking error.
Race as a Variable in Imposing and Carrying Out the Death Penalty in the U.S.

Abstract This study examined previous reports by death penalty abolitionist groups noting a racial disparity in the imposition of the death penalty in the United States since 1976. It built on the findings of the U.S. Department of Justice and other private investigators who revisited the issue of race among incarcerated homicide offender and capital murderer populations in response to these earlier claims. Racial differences in incidences of homicide offending and death penalty sentencing and imposition were investigated. While Whites comprised approximately 85% of the US population between 1976 and 1995 and Blacks comprised about 12.5%, Whites were offenders in 49% of the murders during that period and Blacks were offenders in 51% of the murders for which racial identification of the offender was reported. Whites, who outnumber Blacks in the general population at a ratio of 7:1, constitute 43.4% of offenders arrested annually for the commission of homicide. In contrast, Whites were the majority among th...
Restructuring Secondary Special Education Hawaiian Style

We encourage our readers to submit ideas, suggestions, or manuscripts for Spotlight. This feature of Intervention focuses on a specific school program, clinic, camp, or individual concerned with special and remedial education. We would be pleased to assist our readers in developing an article for this column.- GW
Processing of Cobalt-Copper-Arsenic Complex Ore Concentrate

Extraction of cobalt from complex ore flotation concentrates obtained from the Blackbird Mine. Idaho. USA is reviewed. After flotation of a primary copper concentrate, a bulk concentrate is recovered containing major amounts of cobalt, arsenic, and iron, with minor amounts of copper and nickel. This concentrate can be upgraded during flotation by removing iron, but with considerable cobalt loss. Chemical extraction difficulties are caused by the high arsenic and iron content of the concentrate. The historical approach, including a short lived plant, has been pressure oxidative leaching followed by ferric arsenate precipitation, solution purification, and cobalt electrowinning. Smelting and sulfation roasting followed by leaching are unsatisfactory but also discussed. The most recent studies, showing some promise, have been on oxygen-calcium chloride leaching and on biooxidative leaching at moderate pH with simultaneous iron hydrolysis and ferric arsenate precipitation.
The Role of Observed Environmental Conditions and Precipitation Evolution in the Rapid Intensification of Hurricane Earl (2010)

AbstractAn investigation into the possible causes of the rapid intensification (RI) of Hurricane Earl (2010) is carried out using a combination of global analyses, aircraft Doppler radar data, and observations from passive microwave satellites and a long-range lightning network. Results point to an important series of events leading to, and just after, the onset of RI, all of which occur despite moderate (7–12 m s−1) vertical wind shear present. Beginning with an initially vertically misaligned vortex, observations indicate that asymmetric deep convection, initially left of shear but not distinctly up- or downshear, rotates into more decisively upshear regions. Following this convective rotation, the vortex becomes aligned and precipitation symmetry increases. The potential contributions to intensification from each of these structural changes are discussed.The radial distribution of intense convection relative to the radius of maximum wind (RMW; determined from Doppler wind retrievals) is estimated from ...
HIV-1 and the brain: connections between HIV-1-associated dementia, neuropathology and neuroimmunology

AIDS patients frequently exhibit neurological disorders due to the neurotoxic events that result from HIV-1 and/or opportunistic infections in the brain. This review examines recent clinical findings related to HIV-1-associated dementia, and outlines current areas of basic research that may clarify how HIV-1-associated encephalopathy produces clinical symptoms of brain dysfunction.
Viscosity of polypropylene oxide solutions over the entire concentration range

An empirical equation is presented which describes polymer solution viscosity, η, over the entire concentration range from a knowledge of intrinsic viscosity, [η], Huggins constant, k′, and bulk flow viscosity of polymer, η0. The equation is: where solution viscosity, η, is contained in ηsp. No arbitrary parameters are invoked since b can be evaluated at bulk polymer (C = polymer density) where everything else is known. The equation accurately portrays the viscosity of polypropylene oxide (PPG 2025) from infinite dilution to bulk polymer in a very good solvent (benzene) and in a somewhat poorer (∼ θ) solvent (methylcyclohexane). The hydrodynamic consequences of the thermodynamic interactions between polymer and solvent are reflected in the constants. This equation should be applicable to other polymer/solvent systems, and thus be immediately useful to those working with concentrated polymer solutions.
Surface-based broadband electromagnetic-circuit simulation of lossy conductors

Surface-only boundary-element formulations are particularly efficient for electromagnetic modelling of microelectronic structures that consist of homogeneous sections, such as interconnects, packaged and on-chip microwave and analogue circuit components. However, broadband modelling, as necessitated in digital and ultrawideband systems, is not possible with standard surface-only formulations that rely on the surface impedance technique to model conductor loss. In existing methods, recourse is taken to volumetric solvers in such cases. A surface-only formulation is presented that is truly broadband, and solves the internal field problem exactly, utilising a newly developed lossy medium quadrature. The value of the proposed technique lies in its seamless behaviour over wide frequency ranges and its direct interconnectivity to circuit-level analyses. In particular, frequency-dependent parameters can be extracted via a surface-only approach, valid at all frequencies. The electromagnetic analysis is coupled to a lumped circuit formulation, via a recently developed contact model.
Some general observations on tubular reactor stability

A sufficient condition under which a tubular reactor with axial diffusion is globally stable is derived by use of the maximum principle for parabolic equations. It is shown that by use of some topological concepts the asymptotic stability of a steady state can be determined without the necessity of performing any computations. If a unique steady state exists it is asymptotically stable. If three steady states exist, the high and low temperature steady states are asymptotically stable, while the intermediate one is unstable.
Effects of Substrate Modification on the Interfacial Adhesion of Acrylic Elastomers

Axisymmetric adhesion tests are used to probe the adhesion between a carboxylated, poly(n-butyl acrylate) (PNBA) elastomer and a variety of substrates. The elastomer is in the form of a hemispherical cap, which is pressed against a flat substrate to give a circular contact area. A standard fracture mechanics approach is used to relate the applied load and the radius of the contact area to the energy release rate, &#x1d4a2;, which can be viewed as an adhesion energy. For a given substrate, &#x1d4a2; is a function of the crack velocity, v, defined as the time derivative of the contact radius. The contact pressure does not appear to play a role in the development of the adhesive forces, and the specific relationship between &#x1d4a2; and v depends on the substrate. In all cases this relationship can be adequately described by the empirical expression, &#x1d4a2;(v) = &#x1d4a2;0(1 + (v/v*)0.6). Values of &#x1d4a2;0 are within a factor of about 2 of the expected thermodynamic work of adhesion, but values of v* vary from 5.5 to 215 nm/s, depending on the deta...
NEW PRECISION ORBITS OF BRIGHT DOUBLE-LINED SPECTROSCOPIC BINARIES. VI. HD 24623 AND V923 SCORPII

Using new radial velocities obtained at KPNO and Fairborn Observatory, we have determined improved spectroscopic orbits for two double-lined F-type binaries, HD 24623 and V923 Sco. The orbital periods are 19.66304 and 34.8386 days, respectively, so it is not surprising that their orbits have relatively high eccentricities of nearly 0.5. The orbital dimensions (a1 sin i and a2 sin i) and minimum masses (m1 sin 3 i and m2 sin 3 i )h ave accuracies of 0.2% or better. Extensive photometry of HD 24623 with the T4 0.75 m automatic photometric telescope at Fairborn Observatory shows no evidence of eclipses. Instead, a very weak reflection effect is seen, making the system a new variable star. Our spectroscopic ephemeris for V923 Sco indicates that the eclipse detected by Bolton and Herbst is a partial eclipse of the primary but detection of the secondary eclipse is uncertain. For HD 24623, we have determined spectral types of F2 dwarf and F4 dwarf for the primary and secondary, respectively. Our spectral types are F4 dwarf for the two components of V923 Sco. Both components of HD 24623 are rotating more slowly than their pseudosynchronous velocities, as is the primary of V923 Sco. However, the secondary of V923 Sco is likely rotating pseudosynchronously.
THE MECHANISM OF BLOOD PROTEIN UPTAKE BY INSECT OOCYTES

what was described by Dr. Schjeide (this symposium) and the role of blood proteins in yolk formation by the moth of the Cecropia silkworm. By immunological procedures, it has been possible to show that most, and possibly all proteins present in the blood at the time of yolk formation are also detectable in the yolk (Telfer, 1954). As in the experiments of Knight and Schechtman (1954), even foreign pro? teins which have been injected into the blood are detectable in the yolk (Telfer, 1960). As if in imitation of serum lipo? vitellin in the chicken, a protein which circulates in the blood of female moths is
On Whittlesey, Bowman and Harvard

(1988). On Whittlesey, Bowman and Harvard. Annals of the Association of American Geographers: Vol. 78, No. 1, pp. 152-158.
Personality and fear responses during conditioning: Beyond extraversion

The personality domain of introversion-extraversion has been theorized to be associated with the strength of fear conditioning, but the literature on this topic has been equivocal. Furthermore, except for extraversion and neuroticism, relationships of the other Big Five personality domains with fear response acquisition have not been explored. In the current study, multi-level modeling was used to examine the relationships of facets of the Big 5 domains to fear response acquisition. Participants were 217 police and firefighter trainees who completed the Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO-PI-R; Costa & McCrae, 1992) and a fear conditioning task as part of a larger study. Results indicated that several facets of extraversion have opposing associations with fear response acquisition of an electrodermal response– possibly contributing to the mixed results in the literature. Additionally, facets of other Big Five domains were found to be associated with fear response acquisition.