cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Insecticide resistance in mosquitoes: a pragmatic review

Descriptions of the World Health Organization standard methods of assessing susceptibility or resistance in larval and in adult mosquitoes are presented, and the evaluation of their results are discussed. Other susceptibility test methods are also mentioned, including those based on esterase zymograms. Recent work on the biochemical mechanisms of resistance and cross-resistance are reviewed, along with possible countermeasures for the problem of mosquito resistance, now known in 113 species of culicines and anophelines.
Obsolescence and Decline of Social Capital

This paper formalizes a theory of the obsolescence and decline of social capital based on the interplay between social capital and the flexibility of productive resources. In our economy, agents with specific skills are held up by their principals. Inside communities, agents learn about each other and thereby engage in mutual aid, preventing the hold-up. As agents learn about each other, they share skills and gain flexibility. In the long run, this may render mutual aid obsolete, causing its decline.
Smoke Alarm and Battery Function 42 Months After Installation A Randomized Trial

BACKGROUND: This randomized trial presents findings from the longest follow-up study of smoke alarm and battery function to date. PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to examine differences in long-term function of smoke alarm and battery combinations. METHODS: A total of 691 households in an ongoing cohort study were randomly allocated into smoke alarm groups of ionizing and photoelectric and battery groups of zinc and lithium. Smoke alarm function was measured in 633 (91.6%) households from January 2007 through February 2008, 42 months following original smoke alarm/battery installation. Data analyses were conducted in 2009. RESULTS: After 3.5 years, 81.9% of the 1898 smoke alarms were functional. Ionizing alarms with zinc batteries were the least likely to function (72.7%). In comparison, photoelectric alarms with lithium batteries were 2.9 times (95% CI=1.8, 4.5) more likely to function; ionizing alarms with lithium batteries were 2.0 times (95% CI=1.3, 3.1) more likely to function; and photoelectric alarms with zinc batteries were 1.7 times (95% CI=1.1, 2.5) more likely to function. Functionality was strongly tied to number of reports of nuisance alarms, which was higher for ionizing than photoelectric alarms. CONCLUSIONS: Photoelectric smoke alarms and lithium batteries are the most likely to function long after smoke alarm installation, and may be worthwhile investments despite their increased cost. Language: en
Combined Mode I-Mode III Fracture Toughness of a Particulate Reinforced Metal-Matrix Composite

The aim of this investigation was to determine the fracture behavior of a particulate reinfored aluminum alloy composite under combined mode I-mode III loading conditions. A modified three-point bend specimen was used to carry out these tests. It was found that the mode I loading condition was energetically most favorable. Addition of mode III components to the system seems to increase the amount of redundant work during fracture without affecting the critical fracture criterion.
The theory of competing risks

Summary The theory of competing risks is motivated, certain aspects are reviewed critically, and some extensions are indicated. A unified formulation of the theory is given covering dependent as well as independent risks. The relations between various functions useful in the theory are made explicit. In a historical note a valuable early result is put into modern notation. The currently controversial subject of identifiability when risks are dependent is discussed and it is indicated under what conditions some of the difficulties raised can be overcome. Consequences of assuming proportional hazard rates are set out. New conditions are provided under which this assumption holds and it is shown how the assumption may be tested. Some concluding remarks deal with limitations of the theory and point out areas needing further work.
Methyl isocyanide is probably a non-RRKM molecule

Abstract Classical trajectory calculations strongly indicate that CH 3 NC isomerization does not obey the RRKM theory, even under thermal conditions. Recent experimental work reinforces this conclusion.
Steric and Chelate Directing Effects in Aromatic Borylation

Jian-Yang Cho, Carl N. Iverson, and Milton R. Smith, III*Department of Chemistry, Michigan State UniVersityEast Lansing, Michigan 48824ReceiVed April 14, 2000ReVised Manuscript ReceiVed October 18, 2000Hydrocarbon activation has attracted considerable attentionbecause hydrocarbon feedstocks are ubiquitous.
Mechanisms of resistance to Erbitux (anti-epidermal growth factor receptor) combination therapy in pancreatic adenocarcinoma cells.

We previously demonstrated that pancreatic adenocarcinoma BxPC-3 xenografts display resistance to treatment with Erbitux, gemcitabine, and radiation, whereas MIA PaCa-2 xenografts are highly sensitive to the same therapy. Here, we elucidate in vitro mechanisms that may explain the observed differential response of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expressing pancreatic adenocarcinoma xenografts to Erbitux-based combination therapy in vivo. MIA PaCa-2 and BxPC-3 protein lysates were probed with antibodies to EGFR, ErbB2, ErbB3, and ErbB4. Constitutive ErbB3 activity was visualized by immunoblot analysis using anti-phosphotyrosine antibodies and receptor-specific immunoprecipitates. erbB2 and erbB3 gene expression in both cell lines was quantified with real-time polymerase chain reaction. Erbitux-induced internalization of EGFR was determined by flow cytometry following Erbitux treatment for different incubation times at 0°C and 37°C. MIA PaCa-2 and BxPC-3 protein extracts were also probed with anti-phospho-mitogen-activated protein kinase antibody after stimulation with EGF and in the presence of Erbitux. Although both cell lines expressed EGFR and ErbB2 protein, ErbB3 protein was selectively expressed by BxPC-3 cells, where it also showed evidence of constitutive phosphorylation. There was a 10-fold increase of erbB3 transcript levels in BxPC-3 cells compared with MIA PaCa-2. ErbB4 protein was not detectable in either cell line. Erbitux mediated EGFR internalization in MIA PaCa-2 cells after 2 hours of incubation, whereas it did not promote EGFR internalization in BxPC-3 cells. Likewise, EGF-dependent phosphorylation of MAPK p44/42 was blocked by Erbitux treatment in MIAPaCa-2 but not BxPC-3 cells. Erbitux selectively interfered with EGF-induced MAPK activation in MIA PaCa-2 but not BxPC-3 cells. Persistent MAPK activation and impaired in vitro internalization of EGFR by BxPC-3 pancreatic cancer cells may be due to constitutive ErbB3 signaling, facilitated by heterodimerization with EGFR, which may explain resistance to Erbitux-based combination therapy in vivo.
PET scan in the staging of non-small cell lung cancer

Imaging techniques play an essential role in the diagnosis, staging, and follow-up of patients with lung cancer. Positron emission tomography (PET) has become an important innovation in lung cancer imaging. In this report, a comprehensive overview is given of the important number of prospective performance studies, looking at the value of PET in locoregional and distant staging of NSCLC, and at its potential impact on patient management. In the assessment of locoregional lymph node spread, PET has a high negative predictive value in the exclusion of N2 or N3 disease, so that mediastinoscopy can be omitted in most patients with negative mediastinal PET-images. False negative mediastinal PET findings may occur in patients with minimal N2 disease. Because of possible false positive findings in patients with inflammatory nodes or granulomatous disorders, confirmation and lymph node mapping by mediastinoscopy remains mandatory in these situations. In the extrathoracic staging, PET is a useful adjunct to conventional imaging, because it is able to detect unexpected metastatic lesions. An isolated positive finding that determines the possibility for radical treatment requires pathological verification, because of the possibility of a false positive result. PET is also able to exclude malignancy in equivocal lesions, but caution is needed in case of small lesions. There are currently insufficient data to state that PET could replace standard imaging. The use of PET as described in the performance studies, now undergoes further validation in large-scale randomised patient outcome studies. In the meanwhile, a current recommendation for the use of PET in contemporary lung cancer staging is provided.
Guest Editors' Introduction: Sensor-Network Applications

Wireless sensor network technologies let us view and access large parts of the physical world from cyberspace via sensor monitoring. The three theme features in this issue address some of the challenges inherent to developing and fielding wireless sensor networks.
Hydrologic Research before and after Agristars

Hydrologic research prior to AgRISTARS had followed a rather defined path in which the knowledge curve with time resembles a staircase, rather than a constant incline. AgRISTARS did not introduce remote sensing to hydrology. Some aspects of land-cover analysis, snow area, and floodplain delineation were being studied. However, the concentrated effort of remote-sensing applications to hydrology did help add another step to the knowledge curve.
Dose proportionality of nadolol pharmacokinetics after intravenous administration to healthy subjects.

To support the increasing use of intravenous β-blockers during cardiovascular emergency and surgery, dose proportionality of pharmacokinetics of nadolol was evaluated after intravenous administration of 14C-nadolol at doses of 1, 2 and 4 mg to nine healthy volunteers. There were no observed differences in the excretion or the pharmacokinetics of nadolol with respect to the dose administered. Over a 72-h period after drug administration, an average of about 60% of the dose was excreted in the urine and about 15% was excreted in the feces. The range of values for total body clearance (219 to 250 ml·min−1), renal clearance (131 to 150 ml·min−1), mean residence time (10.5 to 11.3 h), half-life (8.8 to 9.4 h), and steady-state volume of distribution (Vss) (147 to 157 l) indicated that nadolol was extensively distributed and slowly cleared from the body. There was a linear correlation (r 2=0.97) between the area under the plasma concentration of nadolol versus time curve (AUC) and the dose. All pharmacokinetics parameters, except Vss, were slightly, but significantly, different at the 4 mg dose. Superposition of the dose-normalized average concentrations indicated that despite these minor differences in parameters, the pharmacokinetic behavior of nadolol was linear with respect to dose. Urinary excretion of nadolol was dose independent.
Investigation of prepubertal sex differences in wheel running and social behavior in three mouse strains

Sex differences in social behaviors exist in mammals during adulthood, and further evidence suggests that sex differences in behavior are present before sexual maturity. In order to model behavioral disorders in animals, it is important to assess baseline sex-related behavioral differences, especially when studying disorders for which sex-related behavioral effects are expected. We investigated the effect of sex on behavior in 3 strains of pre-pubertal mice (C57BL/6, CFW, and CF1) using a wheel-running assay. We found no significant sex differences in latency to run on the wheel or total duration of wheel running within each strain. During the social interaction test, there were no differences between sexes in latency or total duration of contact or following between a subject and novel mouse. We also evaluated behavioral patterns of wheel running and stereotypical behaviors, such as burrowing and grooming. Both sexes showed characteristic wheel running behavior, spending the majority of each trial interacting with the wheel when it was free and more time performing other activities (e.g., stereotypical behaviors, general locomotion) when it was jammed. These results provide evidence that, among various strains of pre-pubertal mice, baseline sex-related behavioral differences are not strong enough to influence the measured behaviors.
The hr locus and the toxicity of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in newborn mice

In mice, the recessive mutation hairless (hr) controls the cutaneous response to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) but its influence on TCDD's systemic toxicity is unclear. To clarify this, we compared the effects of lactational TCDD exposure on standardized litters of newborn HRS/J mice homozygous for either hr or +that were fostered by haired dams exposed to 0, 6, 8 or 12 μg TCDD/kg body weight on postnatal day 0. At 12 μg/kg, TCDD was lethal to both haired and hairless pups. At the lower doses (6 and 8 μg/kg) the survival of hr/hr pups was significantly lower than +/+ pups. Affected pups succumbed following a 1 to 2-day period of cachexia and wasting. As has been reported for other mouse strains, TCDD exposure impacted on their neonatal development and lessened the time to eye opening for both haired and hairless pups. However, the hairless animals were affected at lower doses than were the haired. The results of this study document that the hr/hr genotype does influence the systemic toxicity of TCDD in mice.
Simultaneous measurement of oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide emission during discontinuous ventilation in the tok-tok beetle, Psammodes striatus

Abstract Rates of oxygen uptake and carbon dioxide emission during cycles of discontinuous ventilation by the tok-tok beetle, Psammodes striatus , were measured with computerized flowthrough respirometry. Mean long-term rates of oxygen uptake (LVO 2 ) and carbon dioxide emission (LVCO 2 ) were 0.160 ml g −1 h −1 and 0.130 ml g −1 h −1 , respectively (mean of > = 10 discontinuous ventilation cycles in each of 8 beetles, mean mass 2.80 g). RQ over the entire ventilation cycle was 0.83. During the closed-spiracle (closed) phase of the cycle, oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange declined to very low levels. During the fluttering-spiracle (flutter) phase, short-term VO 2 (SVO 2 ) increased to ∼ LVO 2 , thus meeting tissue oxygen requirements, while short-term VCO 2 (SVCO 2 ) was only 13% of LVCO 2 . The flutter phase respiratory exchange ratio was 0.15. During the open-spiracle phase, this ratio increased to 1.27, carbon dioxide emission increased to 228% of LVCO 2 , and oxygen uptake peaked rapidly and then settled to a second plateau marginally above LVO 2 . Abdominal pulsations invariably occurred in the open phase, and cost 2% of total oxygen uptake. The flutter phase accounted for 33.9% and the open phase for 63.9% of total oxygen uptake; in terms of carbon dioxide emission, the flutter and open phases accounted for 5.7 and 93.1%, respectively.
Helios Observations of the Earthward-Directed Mass Ejection of 27 November 1979

The Helios spacecraft zodiacal light photometers are used to observe the earthward-directed solar mass ejection transient of 27 November, 1979 described by Howard et al. (1982) that completely circles the Sun in coronagraph observations. At this time, Helios B was situated 30° east of the Sun-Earth line at 0.5 AU. The brightness increase moved outward directly along the Sun-Earth line over a period of approximately 24 hr, indicating a strong collimation of the ejection. The outward motion and mass estimates of the ejected material from the photometers compared with near-Earth observations from IMP spacecraft show that at least a portion of the density increase observed at Earth on 29 and 30 November was associated with this ejection.
Design of low stress diaphragms using the contact algorithms in ADINA

Abstract This paper describes the use of the contact algorithm in ADINA in conjuction with the available elastic-plastic material models for the analysis of axisymmetric thin diaphragms. The severity of opposing loading conditions and the nature of the contact conditions preclude more standard approaches.
CRT-803 TAVR in Patients with Liver Disease

Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) has emerged as an alternative to high-risk surgery in patients with comorbid conditions. The role of TAVR in patients with liver disease has not been fully examined. We examined the procedural and intermediate to long-term follow-up outcomes of patients
Influence of recrystallization behavior on the mechanical properties of XM-19 stainless steel (22Cr-13Ni-5Mn-2Mo-0.3N)

A study was conducted to evaluate the variation of cold drawn XM-19 stainless steel tensile properties with solution heat treatment, test temperature, and strain rate. An evaluation of fatigue behavior was conducted. Recrystallization behavior resulting from the solution heat treatment was studied. It was found that yield strength increases as: 1) solution heat treatment temperature decreased, 2) strain rate increased, and 3) test temperature decreased. Ductility properties varied in an opposite manner. The thermally activated deformation approach was used to analyze this behavior. The most likely mechanism for the thermally dependent portion of the yield strength was determined to be point defect interaction with dislocations. The athermal portion depends on the degree of recrystallization. The fatigue strength was found to be greater than that of more conventional stainless steels and this was related to lowered stacking fault energy due to nitrogen addition.
An Analysis of the American Cancer Society Clinical Research Training Program

Background. In 1996 the American Cancer Society initiated a Clinical Research Training Grant for junior investigators. This was a 3-year mentored grant for preclinical and clinical research training. Two hundred four individuals applied from 103 institutions, and 25% were funded. Methods. This report is an initial assessment of the impact of the program on future career development. Both the funded and unfunded groups were queried regarding prior research experience, publications, and academic status. Results and Conclusions. Although small differences were seen between the funded and unfunded groups, the major finding was that those applicants with prior research and publication experience were more likely to get funded, but both groups were highly motivated to seek an academic career.
A test of the radiative energy balance of the SHAW model for snowcover

Snow and ice present interesting challenges to hydrologists. Simulating the radiative balance over snow, which is an important part of surface-atmosphere interactions, is particularly challenging because of the decay in albedo over time and the difficulty in estimating surface temperature and incoming long-wave radiation fluxes. Few models are available that include a comprehensive energy and water balance for cold season conditions. The simultaneous heat and water model (SHAW) is a detailed, physical process model of a vertical, one-dimensional canopy-snow-residue-soil system which integrates the detailed physics of heat and water transfer through a plant canopy, snow, residue and soil into one simultaneous solution. Detailed provisions for metamorphosis of the snowpack are included. The SHAW model was applied to data for one winter/spring season (November to May) on a ploughed field in Minnesota without prior calibration to test the performance of the radiation components. Maximum snow depth during this period was 30 cm. For the nearly 100 days of snowcover, the model accounted for 69% of the variation in net solar radiation, 66% of the variation in incoming long-wave radiation, 87% of the variation in emitted long-wave radiation, 26% of the variation in net long-wave radiation and 55% of the variation in net radiation balance. Mean absolute error in simulated values ranged from 10 W m -2 for emitted long-wave radiation to 27 W m -2 for the entire net radiation balance. Mean bias error ranged from 8 W m -2 for emitted long-wave radiation to -16 W m -2 for the entire net radiation balance. When the entire 170 days of simulation, which included periods without snowcover, were included in the analysis, the variation in observed values increased greatly. As a result, the variation in observed values accounted for by the model increased to 97, 71, 93, 56 and 94%, respectively, while the mean absolute and mean bias errors in simulated values remained nearly the same. Model modifications and parameter adjustments necessary to improve winter-time simulation were investigated. Simulation results suggest that the SHAW model may be a useful tool in simulating the interactive influences of radiative transfer at the surface-atmosphere interface.
191 MATERNAL AGE ALTERS FETAL AND PLACENTAL DEVELOPMENT AND EXPRESSION OF METHYLATED GENES

The objective of this experiment was to assess fetal and placental development and to determine the abundance of imprinted gene transcripts in fetal, placental, ovarian, and brain tissue, from aged (15 months old) and young (26 days old) B6D2F1 mice. Fetal and placental weight was measured, and transcript abundance of 14 imprinted genes and 3 nutrient transport genes was analyzed by quantitative PCR. The percentage of females pregnant at day 15.5 of gestation and the average number of normal implantation sites were significantly lower in aged mice, while the average number of degenerating implantation sites was significantly increased (P < 0.05). Fetal growth restriction and placental overgrowth were associated with maternal age, suggesting the balance between maternally and paternally expressed genes may be impaired. Peg3 and Grb10 tended to have decreased abundance in placental tissue collected from pregnancies in aged mice compared to young mice (P < 0.10). Abundance of Igf2, Igf2r, Cdkn1c, Slc2a3, Slc38a4, Peg3, and Phlda2 was significantly increased (P < 0.05) in ovarian tissue from aged mice. Brain tissue harvested from aged females displayed increased abundance of Igf2r, Snrpn, Slc2a3, Mest, Gtl2, Peg3, Grb10, and Lpl (P < 0.05). Aberrant transcript abundance of imprinted genes in ovarian and brain tissue harvested from aged mice suggests that hypothalamic regulation of oocyte growth, as well as oocyte imprinting, may be altered in older females. Abnormal fetal and placental development and differential expression of imprinted genes in the ovary and brain of aged mice suggests that epigenetic regulation of oocyte and fetal development is impaired with advanced maternal age.
Aurally Aided Visual Search under Virtual and Free-Field Listening Conditions

We examined the minimum latency required to locate and identify a visual target (visual search) in a two-alternative forced-choice paradigm in which the visual target could appear from any azimuth (0° to 360°) and from a broad range of elevations (from 90° above to 70° below the horizon) relative to a person's initial line of gaze. Seven people were tested in six conditions: unaided search, three aurally aided search conditions, and two visually aided search conditions. Aurally aided search with both actual and virtual sound localization cues proved to be superior to unaided and visually guided search. Application of synthesized three dimensional and two-dimensional sound cues in the workstations are discussed.
The demand for working capital: a rejoinder

(1989). The demand for working capital: a rejoinder. Applied Economics: Vol. 21, No. 1, pp. 141-142.
Changing breast self-examination attitudes: influences of repression-sensitization and attitude-message match

Abstract Few women regularly perform breast self-examinations (BSE) despite attempts by the American Cancer Society to encourage this activity. The present study suggested that in order to understand the relationship between persuasive messages and BSE attitudes message-type, attitude-type and personality-type need to be considered. It was hypothesized that women classified as sensitizers would agree more with messages that matched the way in which they were thinking about BSE, i.e., an emotional message to an affectively focused person or an informational message to a cognitively focused person. Alternatively, women classified as repressors would agree more with messages that did not match the way in which they were thinking about BSE, i.e., an emotional message of a cognitively focused person or an informational message to an affectively focused person. To test this hypothesis participants were first classified as Repressors or Sensitizers and then either focused on their affective or cognitive responses to BSE. Following this either informational or emotional messages promoting BSE were presented. Results supported the hypothesis.
Heat flow in the oceanic crust bounding Western Africa

Abstract Over four hundred widely distributed heat-flow measurements have been made in the eastern Atlantic Ocean between the Azores—Gibraltar Ridge and the Walvis Ridge, permitting a study of the correlation of heat flow with crustal age and tectonic province. The mean heat flow over crust less than 80 m.y. old is less than that predicted by cooling-lithosphere models. Near the ridge axis the standard deviation of the heat-flow values is as large as the mean, but it decreases rapidly near the 20 m.y. isochron to about half of the mean and then again near 70–80 m.y. to about one third of the mean. The heat-flow values observed over crust older than 80 m.y. are the same as predicted by a cooling-lithosphere model and show little scatter. In the younger ocean crust, water circulation between the crust and ocean bottom water is the dominant mechanism of heat transfer from the crust, but after 80 m.y., heat is transferred primarily by conduction. The age dependence of the mean heat flow and standard deviation north and south of the equator were examined independently and were found to be nearly identical. This implies that heat-transfer processes in the oceanic crust evolve in a similar manner in the two portions of the ocean. Over the older oceanic crust, regions delineated by their mean heat flow and the scatter in the heat-flow values correspond roughly with tectonic province. Volcanic regions have a higher and more variable heat flow than a normal oceanic basin. The scatter in the heat-flow values may be caused by water circulation between the crust and the bottom water. In the equatorial region, the Guinea and Sierra Leone basins have a uniform and relatively high heat flow, averaging 1.4 HFU (10−6 cal cm−2 sec−1). This may mean that the equatorial eastern Atlantic Ocean is underlain by an anomalously thin lithosphere, possibly caused by upwelling asthenosphere and higher shear-stress heating at the base of the lithosphere.
The lamb shift in helium from a self-consistent field theory of electrodynamics

In this paper we present the results of an investigation of the finite self-consistent field theory of electrodynamics applied earlier to the calculation of the Lamb shift in hydrogen (Sachs & Schwebel, 1961; Sachs, 1972), now applied to the problem of the Lamb shift in the low-lying states of Helium. We construct the covariant nonlinear field equations of this theory for Helium, from the Lagrangian formalism. In the linear approximation, the Hamiltonian associated with this field theory for the two-electron atom is set up. It is equivalent to the Breit Hamiltonian plus two extra terms. This generalization is a direct consequence of the two-component spinor formalism of the factorization of the Maxwell theory of electromagnetism that is contained in this theory of electrodynamics (Sachs, 1971). Thus, the energy spectrum predicted for the Helium atom is the spectrum predicted by the Breit Hamiltonian, shifted by amounts in the different energy states according to the effects of the extra terms in the Hamiltonian. The latter can be associated with the corrections to the Helium spectrum that are conventionally attributed to the Lamb shift. The level shifts for the 11S and 23S states are calculated using the Foldy-Wouthuysen transformation, with the generalization of Charplvy for the two-electron atom. The results are found to be in close agreement with the experimental values for the energy shifts not predicted by the Dirac theory, and with the theoretical values predicted by quantum electrodynamics.
In What Ways Might Statewide Advocates for Gifted and Talented Education Coordinate and Focus Their Efforts

When advocates for gifted and talented education in the state of Utah found that their overall efforts seemed diffused and uncoordinated, they used creative problem-solving processes to address their common concerns. The result was the ratification of a concise, mutually acceptable mission and goals statement that was designed to give direction to statewide efforts on behalf of gifted and talented children for years to come. The document provides focus and direction by defining common goals and recognizing ownership of the logical tasks belonging to each advocacy group. Flexibility for future growth and development in the field of education of the gifted is a salient feature of the goals described. The impact of the document was felt immediately in improved services for children, better inservice training for educators, and more focused policy at the state level.
Three-dimensional quantitative textural analysis of metamorphic rocks using high-resolution computed X-ray tomography: Part II. Application to natural samples

Three-dimensional quantitative textural analysis coupled with numerical modelling has been used to assess the dominant mechanisms governing crystallization of garnet porphyroblasts in rocks from diverse regional metamorphic environments. In every case, spatial dispositions, crystal size distributions, and compositional zoning patterns of porphyroblasts indicate the dominance of diffusion-controlled nucleation and growth mechanisms. Nine samples from three geological areas were studied: a suite of semi-pelitic rocks from the Picuris Mountains, New Mexico (USA); a suite of mafic samples from the Llano Uplift, Texas (USA); and a kyanite schist from Mica Dam, British Columbia (Canada). The semi-pelitic suite exhibits post-deformational garnet growth, whereas garnet in the mafic suite and in the kyanite schist grew synkinematically in rocks displaying weak and strong penetrative fabrics, respectively. For each sample, the centres and radii of thousands of garnet crystals were located and measured in three dimensions, using images produced by high-resolution computed X-ray tomography. Statistical measures of the degree of ordering and clustering of nucleation sites, and estimates of crystal isolation for each porphyroblast, were then computed from the measured spatial dispositions. These measures can be reproduced in simple numerical models only by diffusion-controlled nucleation and growth mechanisms. Normalized radius-rate relations computed from compositional zoning patterns in the garnets require thermally accelerated diffusion-controlled growth, providing independent confirmation of the conclusions based on textural analysis. The unexpected similarity of results from all samples indicates that diffusion-controlled nucleation and growth mechanisms may govern porphyroblast crystallization in many metamorphic regimes.
Impulsiveness and spiral maze performance in elderly psychiatric patients

Abstract The short form EPQ-R, the I 7 Impulsiveness Questionnaire and the Gibson Spiral Maze test of the CAPE were administered to 72 elderly patients attending a psychiatric day hospital. Forty two were diagnosed as suffering from a functional, and 30 from an organic, disorder. The previous finding of a relationship between Psychoticism and Spiral Maze Error score was not replicated for either the functional or the organic group. An hypothesized relationship between Impulsiveness and Spiral Maze Error score was not supported.
Lower crustal evolution under central Arizona: Sr, Nd and Pb isotopic and geochemical evidence from the mafic xenoliths of Camp Creek

Abstract Oligocene potassic volcanism at the Camp Creek area, Arizona has sampled the lower crust by bringing mafic granulite, amphibolite and garnet-bearing pyroxenite (eclogite) xenoliths to the surface. Xenolith geobarometry records metamorphic pressures of approximately 10 kbar and temperatures of 650–900°C. Whole-rock Sr and Nd isotopic compositions correlate roughly with xenolith metamorphic mineral assemblages: higher temperature eclogites have 87Sr/86Sr ranging from 0.7066 to 0.7080 and eNd of −2 to −5.8 while lower temperature amphibolites have 87Sr/86Sr of 0.7074 to 0.7082 and eNd of −6 to −9. Sr and Nd isotopic compositions of mineral separates reflect, in some xenoliths, intermineral diffusion up to the time of latite eruption and limited exchange with the host latite. Pb isotopic compositions of the xenoliths show little mineralogical dependence and overlap the field for normal MORB. These data suggest that lower-crustal metamorphism has significantly affected the Sr and Nd isotope evolution of the eclogites but has had little effect on their Pb isotope systematics. For xenoliths closer to igneous bulk compositions (i.e. not enriched in metamorphic garnet and pyroxene), Nd depleted mantle model ages range from 1.2 to 1.9 Ga, in agreement with the Pb Pb array “age” of 1.1 ± 0.6Ga. This is interpreted as dating the separation of the lower crust from the mantle during the Proterozoic crust-building event in this area. Similar Nd model ages for nearby Cenozoic and Mesozoic granitoids suggest that the type of mafic lower crust represented by the Camp Creek xenoliths may be a suitable source for younger plutonics in the area.
Modeling and Validation of Free-Piston Stirling Engines Using Impedance Controlled Hardware-in-the-Loop

This paper describes a method of energetically modeling a free-piston Stirling engine. This model is compared to a lower order Schmidt model, and both models are linearized from nonlinear continuous form and cast into closed-loop state space models. To validate the linear models, an experimental apparatus to simulate the performance of different engines was constructed using linear actuators, sensors, and a free-piston Stirling engine. The behavior of the experimental apparatus was compared to the behavior predicted by the linear models. The operating characteristics of the experimental apparatus are compared to the dominant poles of the closed loop models. Relations are described between the imaginary component of the dominant poles and the operating frequency of the engine and between the real component and the ability of the engine to enter sustained oscillation.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Biomedical applications of chemically-modified silk fibroin

Silk proteins belong to a class of unique, high molecular weight, block copolymer-like proteins that have found widespread use in biomaterials and regenerative medicine. The useful features of these proteins, including self-assembly, robust mechanical properties, biocompatibility and biodegradability can be enhanced through a variety of chemical modifications. These modifications provide chemical handles for the attachment of growth factors, cell binding domains and other polymers to silk, expanding the range of cell and tissue engineering applications attainable. This review focuses on the chemical reactions that have been used to modify the amino acids in silk proteins, and describes their utility in biomedical applications.
A Test of the Standard Hypothesis for the Origin of the H I Holes in Holmberg II

The nearby irregular galaxy Holmberg II (Ho II, DDO 50) has been extensively mapped in H I using the Very Large Array, revealing intricate structure in its interstellar gas component, as reported by Puche et al. in 1992. An analysis of these structures shows the neutral gas to contain a number of expanding H I holes. The formation of the H I holes has been attributed to multiple supernova (SN) events occurring within wind-blown shells around young, massive star clusters, with as many as 10–200 SNe required to produce many of the holes. From the sizes and expansion velocities of the holes, Puche et al. assigned ages of ~107 to 108 years. If the SN scenario for the formation of the H I holes is correct, it implies the existence of star clusters with a substantial population of late B, A, and F main-sequence stars at the centers of the holes. Many of these clusters should be detectable in deep ground-based CCD images of the galaxy. To test the SN hypothesis for the formation of the H I holes, we have obtained and analyzed deep broadband BVR and narrowband Hα images of Ho II. We compare the optical and H I data and search for evidence of the expected star clusters in and around the H I holes. We also use the H I data to constrain models of the expected remnant stellar population. Assuming that the H I holes are created by multiple SNe, that the number of SNe required can be determined from the observed energetics of the holes, and that the SNe represent the high-mass population of a cluster with a normal initial mass function, we show that in several of the holes the observed upper limits for the remnant cluster brightness are strongly inconsistent with the SN hypothesis described by Puche et al. Moreover, many of the H I holes are located in regions of very low optical surface brightness that show no indication of recent star formation. Here we present our findings, discuss their implications, and explore possible alternative explanations for the existence of the H I holes in Ho II, including the recent suggestion that some of the holes could be produced by gamma-ray burst events.
Tu1661 EUS Guided Needle Based Confocal LASER Endomicroscopy (nCLE): Preliminary Results From a Prospective, Multicenter Study of Pancreatic Cystic Lesions

2014 and September 2014, 38 patients with PC, 27 patients with CP and 344 patients without pancreatic disease who underwent EUS were prospectively enrolled. EUS elastography was performed using linear Pentax EUS and Hitachi HI VISION Preirus. The quotient B/A (strain ratio; SR) is considered as the measure of the elastographic evaluation. Area A is representative of the pancreatic lesion strain. Area B refers to a soft peripancreatic tissue strain. The SR results were measured at the head and body, respectively. A total of 409 patients (mean age 58.2 years, 204 male) were included. The mean SR was 3.84 1.37 for normal, 9.54 6.93 for CP, 22.12 14.36 for PC. There was not significant linear correlation between the SR and patient’s age in normal pancreas. The SR was different significantly in three groups respectively (NP vs. CP; p!0.001, NP vs. PC; p!0.001, CP vs. PC; p! 0.001). The area under the curve (AUC) of EUS elastography for diagnosing CP was 0.854 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.804-0.904), the sensitivity and specificity was 81.5% and 83.2% (cut off SR of 5.81). The AUC of EUS elastography for PC was 0.986 (95% CI 0.973-0.998), the sensitivity and specificity was 94.7% and 98.7% (cut off SR of 9.15). In our study, we provided the reference range of SR value of normal pancreas, CP, and PC respectively as well as good parameters of the AUC analysis. Also, EUS elastography is a promising useful method for differentiating normal pancreas, CP and PC. Further research in this method is needed.
I Want to Be an Independent Consultant: Considerations before Taking the Plunge.

The author reflects on his hopes and fears as he considers an independent consulting career.
Bilateral lung abscess associated with a severe masticator space infection

The clinician should be constantly aware of the danger of aspiration in cases of prolonged sepsis with profuse suppuration. In such cases, it might be wiser to establish dependent extraoral drainage, rather than relying solely on intraoral means. The chances of aspirating septic material and the resultant occurrence of pulmonary abscesses will be lessened.
Alaska dividend airline coupon program

Abstract This case presents an interesting situation where multiple companies are used to motivate issues determining revenue recognition and expanded disclosure provisions advocated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The case involves special promotional offers made by both regional and major airlines for air travel. The situation examined will probably become more common as competitive pressures cause firms to develop new and innovative products to increase asset utilitization. By examining multiple firms offering similar, yet distinctly different, products, the case motivates a number of novel revenue recognition issues that support departures from the traditional practice of deferring revenue recognition until services are delivered. The case also incorporates extraneous factors beyond the strict application of GAM that are commonly faced in actual practice. The expanded disclosure requirements advocated by policymakers [the SEC and the AICPA's Special Committee on Financial Reporting (AICPA, 1994, Improving Business Reporting—A Customer Focus: Meeting the Informal Needs of Investors and Creditors: A Comprehensive Report , Jersey City, N.Y.: AICPA.)] are introduced for the development of a narrative discussion regarding changes in the components of income.
Circular dichroism of flow-oriented nucleic acids. II. Comparison between observed and calculated spectra.

The ultraviolet circular dichroism (CD) of oriented DNA and RNA molecules is calculated by an extension of Johnson and Tinoco's theory [(1969) Biopolymers7, 727–749] for unoriented molecules. The calculations are carried out for molecular models of A-DNA, B-DNA, planar B-DNA, C-DNA, and RNA-11-α. The calculated curves are compared to measured spectra [(1975) J. Mol. Biol.92, 449–466] Chung and Holzwarth, for oriented solutions of DNA in buffer, DNA in 6 M LiCl or in ethylene glycol, and double-stranded viral RNA. The calculation, which considers only base–base interactions, predicts that the CD of B-DNA, measured with light propagating parallel to the helix axis, should be large and semiconservative, whereas the CD for light propagating perpendicular to the helix axis should be nonconservative. These predictions agree qualitatively with the experimental observations for DNA in buffer; agreement improves if one assumes the bases to be exactly perpendicular to the helix axis. For the other geometries, agreement is less satisfactory, but qualitative agreement with experiment is obtained and the signs of the specific CD spectra are in accord with observations.
A new technique for analysis of evolved gases from a thermogravimetric analyzer

Abstract Thermogravimetry is a powerful technique for materials characterization. It provides valuable information on mass changes of the sample under controlled heating conditions. The extent and kinetics of reactions involved can also be determined. However, it relies on a combination of other analytical techniques to identify the nature or determine the composition of the evolved gases or the remaining residue. This paper describes a new technique for rapid and convenient detection and determination of selected components in evolved gases from a thermogravimetric analyzer without any modification of the analyzer. Disposable devices are used to collect the sample gases, store the necessary reagents, perform the chemical reactions, and produce the final analytical results. The features and applications of the technique are illustrated with pertinent examples.
Considering Community Literacies in the Secondary Classroom: A Collaborative Teacher and Researcher Study Group.

A year long study group brought teachers and researchers working in urban contexts in US public schools together to examine literacy practices incorporating students’ community literacies into schooled tasks. The goal was to provide teacher development in making connections across their students’ community literacies and the academic literacy they focused on in their classrooms. Most of the teachers initially had narrowly defined concepts of literacy, equating it with traditional school tasks. Researchers prompted identification of students’ community literacies, discussed pedagogical implications related to the inclusion of these literacies in the classroom, and collaborated in developing pedagogical orientations. Results indicate that development of teachers’ constructs of community literacies and literacy practices fostered changes in understanding students’ participation with literacy and resulting competencies. Collaboration resulted in agentic choice to counter institutional constraints threatening ...
Are We Seeing Things?: The Pinesol Lady and the Ghost of Aunt Jemima

The research on African Americans and television advertising is abundant with empirical evidence that attests that Blacks have come a long way as far as inclusion is concerned. Numerous studies cite the increase in Black presence (Bowen & Schmid, 1997; Bristor, Lee, & Hunt, 1995; Licata & Biswas, 1993; Zinkhan, Qualls, & Biswas, 1990). Nevertheless, one does not have to depend on scholarly research to verify the increase in Black presence in television commercials. It becomes obvious as one watches television. What may not be readily evident to the average television viewer are the underlying or subtle stereotypical messages that emanate from some of the television commercials that feature Black people, particularly the Black female. Advertising industry decision makers should be commended for the increase in the inclusion of Blacks in television commercials. They should, however, become sensitized to the social importance of being concerned about how African Americans are depicted in the commercials they produce.
Maturation of ventilatory responses to 1-minute exercise.

To test the hypothesis that ventilatory responses to exercise mature during growth in healthy children, we examined CO2 production (VCO2) and minute ventilation (VE) before, during, and for 10 min after 1-min bursts of cycle ergometry exercise. Ten children (range: 7-11 y old) and 13 adults (26-42 y old) exercised at work rates corresponding to 50 and 80% of the anaerobic or lactate threshold, 50% of the difference between anaerobic threshold and maximum O2 consumption, 100% of maximum O2 consumption, and 125% of maximum O2 consumption (125% max). Gas exchange was measured breath by breath. Children recovered faster from high-intensity (above anaerobic threshold) exercise as judged by the time constant of single exponential curve-fits to postexercise VCO2 [55 +/- 10 s (1 SD) at 125%. max in children compared with 92 +/- 17 s at 125% max in adults; p less than 0.001] and VE (58 +/- 10 s at 125% max in children compared with 125 +/- 37 s in adults, p less than 0.001). Although we found no significant difference between VCO2 and VE recovery times in children, VE was significantly slower than VCO2 in adults for high-intensity exercise. Moreover, recovery times in adults increased with work intensity but were independent of them in children. Whereas the CO2 costs [calculated as total CO2 produced above baseline per unit work done (mL.J-1)] increased with work intensity in adults, no similar significant relationship was observed in children.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
A review of some numerical methods for reaction-diffusion equations☆

Abstract Some fixed-node finite-difference schemes and a finite element method are applied to a reaction-diffusion equation which has an exact traveling wave solution. The accuracy of the methods is assessed in terms of the computed steady state wave speed which is compared with the exact speed. The finite element method uses a semi-discrete Galerkin approximation. The finite-difference schemes discussed in this review include two explicit algorithms, three methods of lines, two implicit procedures, two majorant operator-splitting techniques, four time-linearization schemes and the Crank-Nicolson method. The effects of the truncation errors and linearization on the computed wave speed are determined. The application of these techniques to reaction-diffusion equations appearing in combustion theory is also discussed. The review is limited to fixed-node techniques and does not include moving or adaptive finite-difference and adaptive finite element methods.