cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electron free energy levels in oxidic solutions: relating oxidation potentials in aqueous and non-aqueous systems

We provide background to the problem of describing the state of redox couples in different types of solvent media ranging from acidic aqueous solutions to high temperature molten silicates, pointing out the essential similarity between these solvent media in Lewis acid–base terms. We review the adaptation of the Gurney proton energy level diagram approach to the case of electron transfer processes. Using data from various spectroscopic and analytical chemistry sources, we review the construction of electron free energy level diagrams for redox couples in aqueous and non-aqueous systems using, as a common reference, the potential of the oxygen gas (1 atm)/oxide ion couple in the solution of interest. We emphasize the anomalous effect of “oxide ion activity” (mean ionic activity of alkali oxide) on the state of equilibrium and interpret this in terms of oxide ion transfers that accompany electron transfers. After showing the essential agreement between recent direct electrochemical assessments of the energy levels and those deduced in our original analysis of oxidic melts of different glass formers, we provide an interpretation of the apparent “oxide ion transfer” in terms of the differential medium polarization by the two redox species involved in the equilibrium. We anticipate the extension of these ideas to redox chemistry in the currently burgeoning field of “ionic liquids” in its recent ambient temperature liquid incarnation.
Fine structural changes in the placental membrane of the marmoset with increasing gestational age.

Marmoset placentas were obtained surgically from early, mid and late pregnancy and examined with the electron microscope. At each stage both inner cytotrophoblastic and outer syncytiotrophoblastic layers were identified at the surfaces of the labyrinthine trabeculae. The trabecular cores contain very little connective tissue and are made up primarily of allantoic blood vessels of the peripheral umbilical circulation. Although a subepithelial basal lamina consistently is seen underlying the trophoblast, no subendothelial basal lamina has been identified at any stage. In early stages, the cytotrophoblast cells form a contiguous layer; consequently, the syncytium does not reach the basal lamina; and the placental membrane is hemodichorial. In the latest stage, since cytotrophoblast, though present, forms an interrupted layer and syncytiotrophoblast reaches the lamina, the membrane properly can be considered hemomonochorial. Not only in the gradual reduction in numbers of cytotrophoblast cells, but also in the fine structure of each constituent cellular layer, the membrane of this primitive anthropoid is strikingly like that of higher primates.
A CALM-derived nuclear export signal is essential for CALM-AF10–mediated leukemogenesis

The t(10;11) chromosomal translocation gives rise to the CALM-AF10 fusion gene and is found in patients with aggressive and difficult-to-treat hematopoietic malignancies. CALM-AF10–driven leukemias are characterized by HOXA gene up-regulation and a global reduction in H3K79 methylation. DOT1L, the H3K79 methyltransferase, interacts with the octapeptide/leucine zipper domain of AF10, and this region has been shown to be necessary and sufficient for CALM-AF10–mediated transformation. However, the precise role of CALM in leukemogenesis remains unclear. Here, we show that CALM contains a nuclear export signal (NES) that mediates cytoplasmic localization of CALM-AF10 and is necessary for CALM-AF10–dependent transformation. Fusions of the CALM NES (NESCALM-AF10) or NES motifs from heterologous proteins (ABL1, Rev, PKIA, APC) in-frame with AF10 are sufficient to immortalize murine hematopoietic progenitors in vitro. The CALM NES is essential for CALM-AF10–dependent Hoxa gene up-regulation and aberrant H3K79 methylation, possibly by mislocalization of DOT1L. Finally, we observed that CALM-AF10 leukemia cells are selectively sensitive to inhibition of nuclear export by Leptomycin B. These findings uncover a novel mechanism of leukemogenesis mediated by the nuclear export pathway and support further investigation of the utility of nuclear export inhibitors as therapeutic agents for patients with CALM-AF10 leukemias.
Skin dose study of chest wall treatment with tomotherapy

The tangential-beam technique frequently presents challenges in homogeneity of radiation dose to the target. To ensure an adequate dose to the skin, a bolus is often used. Tomotherapy has already been shown to improve target conformity and homogeneity in other disease sites. Because of the tangential delivery technique and lack of flattening filter in TomoTherapy accelerators, we hypothesize that during chest wall irradiation using tomotherapy, the skin dose will be adequate without bolus. This study compares the dosimetric differences between tomotherapy chest wall irradiation and traditional linear accelerator-based tangential-beam technique. Tomotherapy treatment plans with and without bolus were compared with tangentialbeam plans. Plans were also generated for phantom studies, and point doses were measured using MOSFET dosimetry to verify the adequate skin dose. Monte Carlo simulations of static beams of both techniques were performed, and dosimetry was compared. Monte Carlo simulations and measurements confirmed that beams from tomotherapy deliver a higher skin dose than a standard linear accelerator. Skin dose also increases with the incident angle of the beams. Because of the characteristics of the tomotherapy beam and delivery technique, chest wall treatment plans from tomotherapy showed adequate skin dose [more than 75% of prescribed planning target volume (PTV) dose] even without bolus.
Planar MESFET transmission wave amplifier

The authors present a quasioptical power combining transmission amplifier for increasing the power level available from solid-state circuits. Receiving and transmitting arrays of patch antennas, input/output isolation, MESFETs, bias and matching circuitry are contained on a single substrate, making monolithic millimetre-wave integration possible. The flexibility of selecting input polarisation with respect to the output while maintaining amplifier stability is demonstrated. A 24-MESFET patch antenna amplifier array is presented.
Intracellular chloride and the mechanism for its accumulation in rat lumbrical muscle.

1. Double-barrelled Cl(-)-sensitive microelectrodes have been used to measure the intracellular Cl- activity (aCli) and membrane potential (Em) in rat lumbrical muscles. The mean Cl- equilibrium potential (ECl), calculated from the measured aCli in sixty fibres, was 2.9 +/- 2.5 mV (S.D. of an observation) less negative than Em. The value of aCli was higher than would be expected for a passive distribution, by a mean 1.4 +/- 1.2 mM. The mean Em was -59.5 +/- 8.2 mV. 2. Removal of external Cl- (Cl-(o)) resulted in a rapid fall in aCli and a transient depolarization. aCli stabilized at an apparent level of 1.7 +/- 1.0 mM (n = 24) while Em became substantially more negative than in normal Krebs solution (mean, -80.1 +/- 12.4 mV). Readdition of Cl-(o) caused a rapid rise in aCli and transient hyperpolarization. ECl quickly became less negative than Em and both then fell in parallel towards the levels previously recorded in normal Krebs solution. 3. If lack of selectivity of the Cl(-)-sensitive ion exchanger and the intracellular presence of interfering anions, assumed to be responsible for the apparent aCli recorded in Cl(-)-depleted fibres, were also responsible for the apparently non-passive Cl- distribution recorded under normal conditions, the difference between the calculated ECl and Em would increase at more negative potentials. This was not observed over a range of Em values between -46 and -84 mV. 4. Inhibition of the Cl- permeability by application of 9-anthracene carboxylic acid (9-AC) resulted in an immediate rise in aCli and hyperpolarization. An aCli up to 40 mM higher, or eleven times higher, than that predicted by a passive distribution was recorded. Application of 9-AC after depletion of intracellular Cl- in Cl(-)-free solution had no effect on either the apparent aCli or Em. 5. It is concluded that Cl- ions are actively accumulated by the skeletal muscle fibre and that the Cl- distribution therefore normally exerts a depolarizing influence. 6. In the presence of 9-AC and nominal absence of CO2 and HCO3-, readdition of Cl-(o) to Cl(-)-depleted fibres resulted in a substantial rise in aCli and a small, maintained depolarization. This clear demonstration of active accumulation was used to investigate the mechanism responsible for inward transport of Cl- ions. 7. Neither application of CO2 and HCO3- nor application of DIDS (4,4'-diisothiocyanostilbene-2,2'-disulphonic acid) had any effect on the accumulation of Cl- ions. This suggests that Cl(-)-HCO3- exchange is not involved.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
The evolution of burrowing behaviour in deer mice (genus Peromyscus)

The evolutionary history of most behaviours remains unknown. Here, we assay burrowing behaviour of seven species of deer mice in standardized environments to determine how burrowing evolved in this genus (Peromyscus). We found that several, but not all, species burrow even after many generations of captive breeding. Specifically, there were significant and repeatable differences in both the frequency of burrowing and burrow shape between species. Moreover, these observed species-specific behaviours resemble those reported in wild mice. These results suggest that there is probably a strong genetic component to burrowing in deer mice. We also generated a phylogeny for these seven species using characters from four mtDNA and two autosomal loci. Mapping burrowing behaviour onto this phylogeny suggests a sequence for how complex burrowing evolves: from small, simple burrows to long, multitunnel burrows with defined entrance and escape tunnels. In particular, the most ‘complex’ burrows of P. polionotus appear to be derived. These behavioural data, when examined in a phylogenetic context, show that even closely related species differ in their burrowing behaviours and that the most complex burrows probably evolved by the gradual accumulation of genetic change over time.
RELATIONSHIP OF PSYCHOLOGICAL THEORY TO INSTRUCTIONAL PRACTICES 1

1A paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association, Atlantic City, New Jersey, February 19‐21, 1962.
The effects of suppressed beta tin nucleation on the microstructural evolution of lead-free solder joints

Most lead-free solders comprise tin (Sn) as the majority component, and nominally pure β-Sn is the majority phase in the microstructure of these solders. It is well established that nucleation of β-Sn from Sn-base liquid alloys is generally difficult. Delays in the onset of β-Sn formation have a profound effect upon the microstructural development of solidified Sn-base alloys. Utilizing stable and metastable phase diagrams, along with solidification principles, the effects of inhibited β-Sn nucleation on microstructural development are discussed, employing the widely studied Sn-Ag-Cu (SAC) alloy as a model system. This analysis shows that the main effect of suppressed β-Sn nucleation on near-eutectic SAC solders is to increase the number and/or volume fraction of primary or primary-like microconstituents, while simultaneously decreasing the volume fraction of eutectic microconstituent. General strategies are outlined for avoiding unwanted microconstituent development in these materials, including the use of metastable phase diagrams for selecting alloy compositions, employment of inoculants to promote β-Sn nucleation, and utilization of high cooling rates to limit solid phase growth. Finally, areas for future research on the development of inoculated Sn-base solder alloys are outlined.
Lithium research as a plasma facing component material at the University of Illinois

Abstract Plasma facing component (PFC) materials are critical to the development of future fusion reactor. While several different PFC materials have been considered in the past, there is an increased interest in the scientific community on the use of lithium as a future PFC material, after its initial success demonstrated by the TFTR “supershots” and more recent work performed on the CDX-U and NSTX spherical tori. The worldwide usage of lithium in tokamaks has grown rapidly over the past few years because of these results. The Center for Plasma-Material Interactions (CPMI) at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) has been actively involved in lithium research since its foundation and currently, there are three experimental facilities dedicated to studying lithium interactions relevant to fusion conditions namely: 1. Ion surface InterAction eXperiment (IIAX); 2. Divertor Erosion and Vapor Shielding eXperiment (DEVeX); and 3. Solid/Liquid Lithium Divertor Experiment (SLiDE). One of the significant advantages of these experimental facilities is the ability to study the basic physics of the phenomenon taking place. In this review paper, a brief description of the experimental facilities and their capabilities is provided and the interested reader is advised to look in future publications for the recent results.
Refrigerant Subcooling Correlations for Different Expansion Devices for a Non-Intrusive Charge Indicator

The most common problems affecting residential and light commercial heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems are slow refrigerant leaks. Equipment users are usually not aware of the problem until most of the refrigerant has escaped. A low-cost, non-intrusive refrigerant charge indicator has been developed, based on temperature measurements and correlations formed to interpret the measured temperatures. It can be used to provide real time warnings to the equipment users before the majority of refrigerant is escaped. It could be inexpensive and easy to incorporate into existing heat pumps and air conditioners. Extensive laboratory experimental work was performed on a 2-ton window air conditioner and on a 2.5 ton split heat pump system. It was found that the heat pump was not sensitive to slow refrigerant leak because of the long liquid line. Liquid subcooling was measured to determine the system charge status before a substantial amount of refrigerant was leaked. This study reports the finding of correlations formed for liquid subcooling for the orifice plate and thermal expansion valve used on the heat pump system for both heating and cooling mode operation.
Periprosthetic Supracondylar Femur Fractures Following Total Knee Arthroplasty

Periprosthetic supracondylar femur fractures following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are an infrequent, but devastating, complication. From 1998 to 2000, we treated 30 supracondylar femur fractures above TKAs. Eighteen fractures were managed with retrograde intramedullary rod fixation (FIMR) and the other 12 fractures with traditional open reduction with internal fixation (ORIF). Follow-up averaged 3 years, with Knee Society knee scores being 84 and 82, respectively. Complications included 1 above-knee amputation for deep sepsis and 1 nonunion with varus alignment. FIMR appears to be the treatment of choice when it is feasible. However, traditional ORIF also may yield satisfactory results in those designs that cannot accommodate retrograde FIMR fixation.
141: Accuracy of digital measurement of the cervical portio length

RICHARD BURWICK, GENE LEE, JENNIFER BENEDICT, MARGARET POURTEMOUR, MICHAEL G. ROSS, Harbor-UCLA Med. Ctr. (LABioMed), Dept. of Ob/Gyn, Torrance, California OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the accuracy of clinician-performed cervical length measurements using digital exams, as compared to an objective measure using the Cervilenz device in women presenting with symptoms of preterm labor. STUDY DESIGN: Informed consent for cervical exams was obtained from women presenting in preterm labor between 24-34 weeks gestation, as part of a prospective trial of factors predictive for preterm delivery. Exclusion criteria included cervical dilation 3cm, ruptured membranes, multiple gestation, vaginal bleeding, or intercourse within the prior 24 hours. Cervical length was measured initially by digital exam, estimated to the nearest 0.1 cm. A second examiner, blinded to the results of the digital exam, measured the cervical portio length (at 3:00 or 9:00) utilizing the Cervilenz measuring device. RESULTS: Digital measures of cervical length varied widely, and did not correlate significantly with the objective Cervilenz measures (r 0.23, p 0.10). Digital measures tended to be less than Cervilenz measurements, with a mean absolute difference of 0.88 cm (range 0.20-2.10cm, p 0.0005). The mean absolute difference between digital exam and Cervilenz measurements trended to be even greater among women with cervices described as “soft” versus “medium” or “firm” (1.08 vs. 0.76cm, p 0.07), and in women with long ( 3.5cm) versus short ( 2.5cm) cervices (1.29 vs. 0.76cm, p 0.09), but these did not reach statistical significance. The mean absolute difference between the two measures did not change in the presence or absence of uterine contractions (0.84 vs. 0.92cm, p 0.36). CONCLUSION: Using the objective Cervilenz measure as the standard, these results illustrate the relative inaccuracy of digital exams for cervical length assessment in preterm labor patients. We propose that if cervical length assessments are used for clinical decisions regarding preterm hospitalization or tocolysis, they be performed by an objective measure.
A density-functional model for controlled release

Polymer diffusion based on density-functional theory is applied to controlled release systems. These models explicitly treat the multiphase characteristics of biomolecule-polymer composites typical of drug delivery devices. Polymer diffusion was modeled using the modified Cahn-Hilliard equation with periodic boundary conditions in one dimension and near-zero concentration boundaries in the second dimension. The diffusional driving forces are differences in chemical potential based in part on the Flory-Huggins free energy of mixing in polymer systems rather than concentration gradients. Release rates from this model were compared to exponential models typically used in the drug delivery literature. Simulations based on this model showed that the diffusional exponent is 1/2; this exponent is consistent with Fickian models at early times. Particle growth, which also occurs in diffusing, dispersed systems, was observed. The particle growth exponent in these systems was 2/3, twice the value typical in bulk ripening systems. The increased growth rate was caused by the elimination of small particles due to diffusion out of the system, which removed the low particle size region of the distribution faster than ripening alone.
Introduction to the Epistemology of Causation

This survey presents some of the main principles involved in discovering causal relations. They belong to a large array of possible assumptions and conditions about causal relations, whose various combinations limit the possibilities of acquiring causal knowledge in different ways. How much and in what detail the causal structure can be discovered from what kinds of data depends on the particular set of assumptions one is able to make. The assumptions considered here provide a starting point to explore further the foundations of causal discovery procedures, and how they can be improved.
Transmission dynamics of Borrelia turicatae from the arthropod vector.

Background With the global distribution, morbidity, and mortality associated with tick and louse-borne relapsing fever spirochetes, it is important to understand the dynamics of vector colonization by the bacteria and transmission to the host. Tick-borne relapsing fever spirochetes are blood-borne pathogens transmitted through the saliva of soft ticks, yet little is known about the transmission capability of these pathogens during the relatively short bloodmeal. This study was therefore initiated to understand the transmission dynamics of the relapsing fever spirochete Borrelia turicatae from the vector Ornithodoros turicata, and the subsequent dissemination of the bacteria upon entry into murine blood.
Shareholder value and executive compensation

The creation of shareholder value should be the springboard for executive reward. This principle is based on the simple precept that the market is rational—that it responds quickly and efficiently to change, and that it rewards sustained high performance with high market to book ratios.
Properties of a blue-sensitive rod in theXenopus retina

Abstract TheXenopus retina contains rods of two types: a blue-sensitive one (λmax ∼- 445nm) and a principal rod (λmax ∼- 522nm). We performed partial bleaching experiments on isolated retinas ofXenopus at different life stages and obtained the resulting difference spectra by transmission densitometry. The data showed that the blue-sensitive rod pigment is present in tadpoles, juveniles and adult animals in amounts not exceeding 15% of the total measurable pigment. Spectral sensitivity functions taken from eyecups adapted with orange light showed that the blue-sensitive rod mechanism contributed to the photoreceptoral (PIII) component of the ERG in both tadpoles and post-metamorphic eyes. We employed Stiles' two-color increment threshold method to estimate the absolute dark threshold of the blue-sensitive rod. It was in the range 0.3–0.8 log units higher than that of the principal rod.
ABLATION OF LUNG EPITHELIAL CELLS DEREGULATES FGF-10 EXPRESSION AND IMPAIRS LUNG BRANCHING MORPHOGENESIS

Epithelial-mesenchymal interactions are essential for tissue patterning during organogenesis. Distal lung epithelium and its adjacent mesenchyme comprise the epithelial-mesenchymal signaling unit that regulates lung branching morphogenesis. Tissue recombination experiments have demonstrated the importance of mesenchymal signals in inducing lung epithelial differentiation and branching, but the role of the epithelium in regulating mesenchymal signals has not been well characterized. Using transgenic mice, we ablated distal lung epithelial cells during lung development by inducing the expression of a constitutively active proapoptotic Bax protein under the surfactant protein C (SP-C) promoter. We found that epithelial cell ablation results in impaired lung branching morphogenesis, which progresses to emphysematous airspaces in the adults. Mesenchymal expression of fibroblast growth factor 10 (Fgf-10), whose strict spatial and temporal expression is critical for proper lung branching morphogenesis, is disrupted and loses its localized pattern. Interestingly, the expression of sonic hedgehog (Shh), an epithelial gene known to modulate Fgf-10 expression, is unchanged, indicating the existence of other distal epithelial signals that regulate mesenchymal Fgf-10 expression. We propose that distal SP-C expressing lung epithelial cells provide essential signals for the downregulation of Fgf-10 expression in the distal mesenchyme during lung development.
Radiation-induced carcinoma of the transverse colon: report of a case.

A rare combination of circumstances created a setting for high-dose radiation therapy to the transverse colon, leading to the development of carcinoma. This uncommon event must be considered a clinical curiosity and does not reflect unfavorably upon the need for or efficacy of post-operative radiation therapy in properly selected cases.
A gel diffusion assay for visualization and quantification of chitinase activity

Higher plants, bacteria, fungi, insects, and crustaceans all produce chitinases. Chitinase genes in many organisms are currently under investigation. Chitinase activity is usually assayed with radiolabeled or fluorogenic substrates. We developed a simple, inexpensive, nonradioactive gel-diffusion assay for chitinase that can be used to screen large numbers of samples. In this assay, chitinase diffuses from a small circular well cut in an agarose or agar gel containing the substrate glycol chitin, a soluble, modified form of chitin. Chitinase catalyzes the cleavage of glycol chitin as it diffuses through the gel, leaving a dark, unstained circular zone around the well, because the fluorescent dye calcofluor binds only to undigested chitin. Sample activities can be determined from linear regression of logstandard enzyme concentration versus the zone diameter of internal standards on each Petri dish used for a diffusion assay.
Experimental determination of the mechanical effects of mass density gradient in metallic foams under large multiaxial inelastic deformation

Mass density gradients at the scale of the cell size are an inherent property of metallic foams. Sandwich specimens are prepared from a continuous foam slab and then subjected to large combined compression and shear loads. The characteristic crushing nucleation envelope and the crushing plateau stress interaction surface which determine the amount of energy absorbed during crushing have been measured. In addition to ideal crushing which involves the continual collapse of the solid network structure, fracture-dominated crushing has been observed. The later mechanism occurs under large shears strains and involves the frictional sliding and interlocking of separated surfaces. The wide spread in the measured mechanical properties is only partially related to the density gradient at the microscale denoting that it is not enough to normalize the measured quantities with mass density functions. Other effects such as morphological changes and local variations in cell wall strength should be taken into account.
Randomized investigation of antimicrobials for the prevention of preterm birth

Abstract OBJECTIVE: Occult amniotic fluid infection has emerged as a possible cause of many heretofore unexplained preterm births. We sought to determine whether antimicrobial therapy is effective in preventing preterm delivery. STUDY DESIGN: A double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial was conducted to study the efficacy of ampicillin-sulbactam and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid in women hospitalized for preterm labor between 24 and 34 weeks' gestation. During this investigation no tocolytics or steroids were used. RESULTS: Thirty-nine women with preterm labor received antimicrobial therapy and 39 received placebos. The mean gestational ages at study entry were 29.8 ± 0.4 weeks (SEM) and 30.6 ± 0.3 weeks in the antimicrobial and placebo groups, respectively (not significant). Similarly, the mean gestational ages at delivery were 34.2 ± 0.7 and 34.1 ± 0.6 weeks, respectively (not significant). Other index values of pregnancy outcome, for example, birth weight, neonatal morbidity, and prenatal death, were not significantly improved by antimicrobial therapy given to the mother in preterm labor. CONCLUSION: We find that antimicrobial therapy given to women in preterm labor is ineffective in the prevention of preterm birth. (AM J OBSTET GYNECOL 1996;174:206-10.)
Medicine in America : a short history

How did the challenge and the timetable of America's westward expansion affect American medical practice? What have the principles and obligations of American democracy brought to the character of American medicine? How have America's geography and climate, as well as its racial and economic diversity, led to differing outlooks on health and medicine? Medicine in America James Cassedy explores America's medical "distinctiveness" and follows medical and health-related matters from colonial times to the present. Through four chronological chapters, Cassedy focuses on broad aspects of the American medical scene: the work and ideas of the "orthodox" physician and the formation of America's medical establishment; non establishment health activities, including self-medication, therapeutic sects, and organized movements to promote nutrition and fitness; the health-related sciences, along with their institutions and accomplishments; governmental involvement in medical care, licensing, research, sanitation, and public health; and the varying "health environments" of rural, small town,urban, and transient populations. As he examines events in the context of political, social, economic, industrial, and other historical realities, Cassedy shows the rise of orthodox medicine in the United States through its increasing professionalization and the establishment of medical institutions. He follows the expanding role of government in the advancement and regulation of health care, and the explosion of public health problems that accompanied urbanization. He also explores how regional, racial, social, and economic differences determined access to healthcare. Medicine in America is a valuable introduction that links the history of medicine, health, and disease in the United States to the larger events in U.S. social history.
Coupled and constrained sylvester equations in system design

Several design problems, including reduced observer and compensator design, output feedback, and finite transmission zero assignment, are examined using the vehicle of the coupled Sylvester equations. The coupling is generally provided through a third equation involving the solutions of the two linear Sylvester equations, thus serving as a constraint on the allowed solutions. The Sylvester approach allows the unification of algebraic and geometric approaches, and provides numerical design algorithms through the tool of the Hessenberg form.
Hydrostatic pressures in proximal tubules and peritubule capillaries in the dog

Hydrostatic pressures in proximal tubules and peritubule capillaries in the dog. Pressures in proximal tubules and peritubule capillaries were measured in the dog with a servo-nulling device. Proximal tubule pressure was consistently higher than peritubule capillary pressure; the average gradient of 8.2 ± 1.5 mm Hg was significant, P
Time‐series analysis, forecasting and econometric modelling: The structural econometric modelling, time‐series analysis (SEMTSA) approach

In this chapter an account of our experiences in modeling and forecasting the annual output growth rates of 18 industrialized countries is presented. A s tructural e conometric m odeling, t ime- s eries a nalysis (SEMTSA) approach is described and contrasted with other approaches. Theoretical and applied results relating to variable and model selection and point and turning-point forecasting are discussed. A summary of results and directions for future research concludes the chapter. Introduction In this chapter we shall provide an account of some of our experiences in modeling, forecasting, and interpreting time series data. Since the literature on these topics is so extensive, a comprehensive survey would require one or probably more volumes. Thus, we have decided to describe our approach, the experience that we have had with it, and its relation to a part of the statistical and econometric time series literature. Obtaining good macroeconomic and microeconomic and other time series models is important since they are useful in explanation, prediction, and policy-making or control. The basic issue that is addressed in this chapter is how to produce such good time series models. Our SEMTSA approach (see, e.g., Zellner and Palm 1974, 1975; Plosser 1976, 1978; Zellner 1979, 1984, 1991; Palm 1983; Wallis 1983; Webb 1985; Manas-Anton 1986; Hong 1989; Min 1991) will be briefly compared to several other approaches that have emerged in the literature. Rather than just present theoretical procedures that may be useful in producing good models, an account will be given of both theoretical and applied results in what follows.
Scheduling for performance and availability in systems with temporal dependent workloads

Temporal locality in workloads creates conditions in which a server, in order to remain available, should quickly process bursts of requests with large service requirements. In this paper, we show how to counteract the resulting peak congestions and maintain high availability by delaying selected requests that contribute to the temporal locality. We propose and evaluate SWAP, a measurement-based scheduling policy that approximates the shortest job first (SJF) scheduling without requiring any knowledge of job service times. We show that good service time estimates can be obtained from the temporal dependence structure of the workload and allow to closely approximate the behavior of SJF. Experimental results indicate that SWAP significantly improves system performability. In particular, we show that system capacity under SWAP is largely increased compared to first-come first-served (FCFS) scheduling and is highly-competitive with SJF, but without requiring a priori information of job service times.
Accuracy of an electronic apex locator under controlled clinical conditions

Clinical guidelines essential for accurate use of the electronic apex locator were developed. Common causes for inaccurate readings are described as well as ways to minimize inaccuracies. While strictly adhering to the developed clinical routines, the apex locator was used in a controlled experiment. The lengths of 127 root canals in human teeth, irrespective of diagnosis, were measured. With the instrument placed at the apical foramen, as assessed by the apex locator, a radiograph was taken with a parallelling technique. In 90.6% of the canals the tip of the instrument was assessed to be within 0.5 mm of the radio-graphic outline of the tooth. In 7% of the canals the instrument was 1 to 2 mm short. Only 2.4% of the instruments were up to 1 mm long. Under the strict clinical guidelines used, the apex locator was (bund to be a valuable aid both in routine endodontic treatment and in special clinical situations where the use of radiographs was not feasible.
The impact of HAART on the respiratory complications of HIV infection: longitudinal trends in the MACS and WIHS cohorts.

Objective: To review the incidence of respiratory conditions and their effect on mortality in HIV-infected and uninfected individuals prior to and during the era of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Design: Two large observational cohorts of HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected men (Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study [MACS]) and women (Women's Interagency HIV Study [WIHS]), followed since 1984 and 1994, respectively. Methods: Adjusted odds or hazards ratios for incident respiratory infections or non-infectious respiratory diagnoses, respectively, in HIV-infected compared to HIV-uninfected individuals in both the pre-HAART (MACS only) and HAART eras; and adjusted Cox proportional hazard ratios for mortality in HIV-infected persons with lung disease during the HAART era. Results: Compared to HIV-uninfected participants, HIV-infected individuals had more incident respiratory infections both pre-HAART (MACS, odds ratio [adjusted-OR], 2.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.2-2.7; p<0.001) and after HAART availability (MACS, adjusted-OR, 1.5; 95%CI 1.3-1.7; p<0.001; WIHS adjusted-OR, 2.2; 95%CI 1.8-2.7; p<0.001). Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was more common in MACS HIV-infected vs. HIV-uninfected participants pre-HAART (hazard ratio [adjusted-HR] 2.9; 95%CI, 1.02-8.4; p = 0.046). After HAART availability, non-infectious lung diseases were not significantly more common in HIV-infected participants in either MACS or WIHS participants. HIV-infected participants in the HAART era with respiratory infections had an increased risk of death compared to those without infections (MACS adjusted-HR, 1.5; 95%CI, 1.3-1.7; p<0.001; WIHS adjusted-HR, 1.9; 95%CI, 1.5-2.4; p<0.001). Conclusion: HIV infection remained a significant risk for infectious respiratory diseases after the introduction of HAART, and infectious respiratory diseases were associated with an increased risk of mortality. © 2013 Gingo et al.
Critical currents of semiconductor-coupled Josephson weak links

Critical currents of semiconductor-coupled Josephson weak links, including Josephson field effect transistors, are discussed with emphasis on experimental results. Phenomenological expressions are used illuminate outstanding issues. Recent experiments are described which could lead to improved understanding of the superconductor-semiconductor interfaces of key importance in these devices.
Exploratory Research on the Development of Novel ${\rm Ce}^{3+}$ -Activated Phosphate Glass Scintillators

We report the discovery of a new family of Ce3+-activated phosphate glass scintillators that can be formed either with or without the addition of 6Li, for neutron or X-ray/gamma-ray radiation detection, respectively. Trivalent cerium can be efficiently introduced into these phosphate glasses in surprisingly high concentrations in the form of anhydrous cerium tri-chloride. Additionally, these glasses can be melted and poured at the relatively low temperatures of 1000-1050degC (i.e., substantially lower than silicate glasses), and to retain the cerium in the trivalent state it is not necessary to maintain highly reducing conditions during the synthesis process. The family of alkaline-earth-alkali phosphate glasses investigated here represents a system with two dissimilar cations - thereby offering a large range of potential compositional variations, substitutions, and combinations. In order to alter the scintillator characteristics, we have explored part of that compositional space by studying Ca-Na, Ca-Li, Ca-Cs, Ca-Rb, Ca-K and Ca-Ba-Na phosphate glasses, as well as various co-doping and post-synthesis thermal processing schemes. A series of experiments under X-ray, gamma-ray, and neutron excitations was carried out. The broad, peaking at about 354 nm, UV scintillation of these glasses is well suited for applications that use common photomultipliers with bi-alkali photo-cathodes. Pulse shape measurements show that the primary component of the scintillation in most of these glasses corresponds to 75-90% of the emitted photons, and it decays with a time constant of 30 to 40 ns, which classifies these materials as reasonably fast scintillators. Although the gamma-induced light yield of these new scintillating phosphate glasses is, thus far, only about 30% of that of commercial GS20 silicate glass, due to the generally faster scintillation, the initial amplitude of the scintillation pulse of these glasses is close to that of the above-mentioned GS20 scintillator.
Review of the Uses of Vagal Nerve Stimulation in Chronic Pain Management

Recent human and animal studies provide growing evidence that vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) can deliver strong analgesic effects in addition to providing therapeutic efficacy in the treatment of refractory epilepsy and depression. Analgesia is potentially mediated by vagal afferents that inhibit spinal nociceptive reflexes and transmission and have strong anti-inflammatory properties. The purpose of this review is to provide pain practitioners with an overview of VNS technology and limitations. It specifically focuses on clinical indications of VNS for various chronic pain syndromes, including fibromyalgia, pelvic pain, and headaches. We also present potential mechanisms for VNS modulation of chronic pain by reviewing both animal and human studies.
Laboratory studies with Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner and its possible use for control of Plodia interpunctella (Hbn.).

The Indian-meal moth, Plodia inter punctella (Hbn.), is a serious pest of stored grain and cereal products and is often encountered in Nebraska in both stored wheat and corn. In many elevators and storage bins, populations of this insect develop annually and control measures are required. Infestations developing in bins of wheat and shelled corn are usually limited to the surface areas and the exposed grain mass. When unshellcd corn is infested, the infestation is often found throughout the entire grain mass. In addition to attacking stored wheat and corn, Metcalf et al. (1951) report that this insect feeds on dried fruits, nuts, seeds, roots, herbs, and many other products.
Changes in the demersal fish assemblages of British coastal waters during the 20th century

Catches of demersal fish from research vessel surveys in three areas around the British Isles from 1901 to 1907 were compared with survey catches in the same areas from 1989 to 1997. Mesh size and other characteristics of the trawls used suggested that some of these data were comparable, and could be used to describe changes in demersal fish assemblages over the last 80 years. In Start Bay (NW English Channel) and the Irish Sea, species diversity was the same in both periods, although the most abundant species in each period were not the same. In English coastal regions of the southern North Sea, fish populations became more diverse, as plaice Pleuronectes platessa and whiting Merlangius merlangus became less abundant, and the relative abundance of several non-target species such as dragonet Callionymus spp., bib Trisopterus luscus, and bull-rout Myoxocephalus scorpius increased. The proportion in the catch of small fish species (maximum body length 30 cm) in catches decreased in all regions during the time period, except in the Irish Sea where plaice replaced grey gurnard Eutrigla gurnardus as a dominant species. There was a decline in abundance of large sharks, skates and rays, including the common skate, Raja batis, white skate R. alba and the angel shark Squatina squatina. During historic surveys, 60% of the elasmobranch fauna consisted of thornback ray Raja clavata, whereas in contemporary surveys the lesser spotted dogfish Scyliorhinus canicula was the most abundant elasmobranch. Changes in length-frequency distribution of fish in both target and non-target categories, and other observed changes, were thought to be a response to commercial exploitation, and corresponded to similar observations recorded elsewhere. (C) 2000 British Crown Copyright.
A Bayesian approach to line-transect analysis for estimating abundance

Abstract Line-transect analysis is a widely used method of estimating plant and animal density and abundance. A Bayesian approach to a basic line-transect analysis is developed for a half-normal detection function. We extend the model of Karunamuni and Quinn [Karunamuni, R.J., Quinn II, T.J., 1995. Bayesian estimation of animal abundance for line-transect sampling. Biometrics 51, 1325–1337] by including a binomial likelihood function for the number of objects detected. The method computes a joint posterior distribution on the effective strip width and the density of objects in the sampled area. Analytical and computational methods for binned and unbinned perpendicular distance data are provided. Existing information about effective strip width and density can be brought into the analysis via prior distributions. The Bayesian approach is compared to a standard line-transect analysis using both real and simulated data. Results of the Bayesian and non-Bayesian analyses are similar when there are no prior data on effective strip width or density, but the Bayesian approach performs better when such data are available from previous or related studies. Practical methods for including prior data on effective strip width and density are suggested. A numerical example shows how the Bayesian approach can provide valid estimates when the sample size is too small for the standard approach to work reliably. The proposed Bayesian approach can form the basis for developing more advanced analyses.
Sustained Drug Release from Non-eroding Nanoporous Templates**

Inthosesituationsitisnecessarytohaveareservoirthatdoesnotdegradeorerode.Non-eroding nanoporousoxide coatingsofferanattractivealternativeplatformsincetheyarenonerodibleandtheir nanofeatures allow control of the elution proﬁle.Herein, we present the results for the release of a modeldrug,doxorubicin(Dox),fromdifferentnon-erodingnanopor-ous coatings. Detailed studies of drug release from theseplatforms in the form of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) andanodictitaniumoxide(ATO)werecarriedout.Therearemanyapproaches to sputter metals, such as titanium and aluminum,on different materials and to anodize them afterwards,
A Model for Clarification and Expansion of Conceptual Foundations

Practitioners, researchers, and theorists can establish stronger rationale and direction for their work through better understanding of the conceptual foundations that influence the field of education of the gifted. Navigation along three interpretive dimensions can clarify and expand these conceptual foundations, which currently suffer from fragmentation and insularity. One of these dimensions invites movement through several different world views. Another dimension invites interdisciplinary movement from the precision of the "hard" sciences to the uncertain complexity of the "soft and human" sciences. A third dimension promotes movement through different levels of analysis, ranging from panoramic levels of philosophical and theoretical perspectives to the grounded levels of empirical research and practical application. A three-dimensional model illustrates the dynamics of these movements while highlighting some barriers that cause fragmentation and insularity in conceptual foundations. Recommendations f...
GENETIC DIVERGENCE AND BIOGEOGRAPHY OF NATURAL POPULATIONS OF Macrobrachium rosenbergii

Electrophoretic studies of gene-enzyme variation in natural populations of the freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) are undertaken to quantify the amount of racial divergence among geographically separated natural populations. A total of 440 individuals from 11 localities spread from Sri Lanka to New Guinea, Palau and the Hawaiian cultured stocks are analyzed for genetic variation in as many as 31 electrophoretically detectable proteins. Within-population variability is relatively low: the average proportion of heterozygous loci in any given individual is 2.8% and the average proportion of polymorphic geneenzymes per population is 14%. Population differences are summarized by proportions of loci having no genotypes in common between populations (“% diagnostic loci”). Prawn populations from Australia, New Guinea, the Philippines, and Palau are well differentiated from the rest, with genetically fixed enzyme differences at over 20% of the gene-enzyme systems. That this major discontinuity in the gene pool of M. rosenbergii corresponds to the well recognized zoogeographic boundary known as Wallace' Line suggests that insular distribution has contributed to genetic divergence. One or 2 fixed or nearly fixed differences were also found among populations within the 2 major races east and west of Wallace' Line. These results support the hypothesis that this species has undergone substantial racial divergence over its range and that natural populations represent a tremendously diverse genetic resource for freshwater prawn aquaculture.
Hydrogen-deuterium exchange reactions catalyzed by zerovalent phosphinepalladium complexes

Abstract Complexes of the type [Pd(PR 3 ) n ] ( n = 3 or 4), which may be conveniently generated in situ, catalyze hydrogen-deuterium exchange reactions between D 2 O and various organic substrates, at ambient temperature. The reactions are most rapid for nitroalkanes, where exchange occurs exclusively at the C(1) position and allows the isolation of specifically deuterium-labeled compounds.