cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A profile of community navigation in adults with chronic cognitive impairments.

Primary objective: This study sought to identify navigation patterns and illuminate the barriers to and possible solutions for independent community travel in people with chronic cognitive impairments as a result of acquired brain injury.Research design: Two investigative methods were used to explore navigation in the population of interest: Study 1 was a field study and study 2 convened a series of focus groups with relevant stakeholders.Methods and procedures: For study 1, each week during a 4 month period, researchers administered a navigational survey and structured interview to a typical case sample of six participants in order to catalogue all trips taken outside the assistive living facility. Study 2 convened six focus groups to access perspectives on navigational issues for individuals with cognitive impairments (CI) from a number of stakeholder groups including individuals with CI, care providers for this population and public transportation workers.Conclusions: The results of both studies were c...
Arterial Compliance in Hypertension and Diabetes mellitus

Alterations in the structure and function of large and small arterial vessels occur in hypertension and diabetes mellitus. These changes influence the tone and reactivity of the arteries, accelerate the atherogenic process and account for the vascular complications associated with the diseases. The widespread changes throughout the systemic circulation associated with hypertension and diabetes mellitus can alter the compliance characteristics of the arterial blood vessels. Changes in arterial compliance can influence blood pressure, cardiac output and the impedance to left ventricular ejection. The altered compliance characteristics of the blood vessels may represent a marker for early vascular damage that could ultimately predispose to major vascular events. In providing a more direct measure of the effects of disease on vessel wall characteristics, changes in arterial compliance may identify subgroups of patients at high risk of developing future disease-related complications. They may also act as a sensitive parameter to assess the effects of therapeutic interventions on arterial structure and tone.
GLUEBALLS versus QUARKONIUM: FLAVOR SYMMETRY SIGNATURES

Abstract Flavor symmetry selection rules provide unambiguous signatures for glueball decays at masses above 1500 MeV where many channels are open. For example, a 2++ glueball should decay into ππ, K K , ηη, η'η', ωω, ϱϱ and ψψ, but not into K∗ K nor ηη'. A quarkonium or a four-quark state cannot go into all channels allowed for a glueball; at least one is OZI-forbidden for any choice of flavors. But any quarkonium state that goes to K K should also go to K∗ K and ηη'. These selection rules are shown to be stable against SU(3) symmetry breaking.
Processing Turbulence Data Collected on board the Helicopter Observation Platform (HOP) with the Empirical Mode Decomposition (EMD) Method

AbstractThe Duke University Helicopter Observation Platform (HOP) has previously been shown to be a useful instrument for the measurement of turbulent atmospheric fluxes. As with all such measurements, especially those made from moving platforms, spurious signals, such as instrument noise and mesoscale atmospheric motions, are superposed on the desired signal. Empirical mode decomposition (EMD) is applied in a novel way to identify and separate out different signals represented by intrinsic mode functions (IMFs) in the HOP data and is shown to be an effective tool for the task. The method produces a basis that is adaptive, unique, and orthogonal, all of which are required for this type of data processing, and none of which are present in more traditional techniques. The results of applying EMD are shown to be nonlinear, and occasionally the removal of the correct number of IMFs increases the observed value of energy and fluxes calculated with the eddy correlation technique.
Changes in Prostaglandin Binding Capacity to Single Oviductal Smooth Muscle Cells after Ovulation in the Rabbit

Prostaglandins (PGs) are potent modulators of rabbit oviductal smooth muscle activity. PGE2 inhibits and PGF2α stimulates activity when administered either in vivo or in vitro. Previous studies have revealed that the sensitivity of the oviduct to exogenously administered PGs varies in the different anatomical regions of the oviduct and at certain times after ovulation corresponding to the time period of ovum transport in the rabbit. The results of the present studies indicate that these variations in sensitivity to the PGs are correlated with variations in the maximum PG binding capacities of the oviductal smooth muscle cells. Prostaglandin binding studies were performed in vitro on suspensions of single smooth muscle cells from the rabbit oviduct. Cell suspensions were prepared by incubating strips of the myosalpinx in a modified Hank's balanced salt solution containing collagenase and elastase. Cells were differentially isolated from the distal and proximal isthmic segments of the oviducts from estrous ...
Regulation of the Bovine Kidney Microsomal Chloride Channel p64 by p59 fyn , a Src Family Tyrosine Kinase

p64 is a chloride channel of intracellular membranes which is present in regulated secretory vesicles. Mechanisms by which the p64 channel could be regulated are largely unknown. p59 fyn is a non-receptor tyrosine kinase of the Src family that has been implicated in a variety of intracellular signaling events. The N-terminal portion of p64 has several potential binding sites for Src family SH2 domains. In this paper, we demonstrate that p64 becomes tyrosine phosphorylated when co-expressed with p59 fyn in HeLa cells. We show that co-expression of p64 with p59 fyn renders p64 a ligand for the SH2 domain of p59 fyn and this SH2 binding is eliminated by treating p64 with alkaline phosphatase. Using site-directed mutagenesis, we find that tyrosine 33 in the p64 sequence is necessary for SH2 binding. We also characterized p64-p59 fyn interactions using native material from bovine kidney. We found that a small fraction of native kidney p64 can bind Fyn SH2 in vitro. Immunoprecipitation of p64 from solubilized kidney membranes yields a kinase activity with the same mobility by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis as authentic bovine p59 fyn . Finally, we demonstrate that co-expression of p64 and p59 fyn in HeLa cells results in enhanced p64-associated chloride channel activity.
Functional responses and prey-stage preferences of three species of predacious mites (Acari: Phytoseiidae) on citrus red mite, Panonychus citri (Acari: Tetranychidae)

The citrus red mite, Panonychus citri (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranychidae), is a pest of citrus worldwide, and a major pest of satsuma mandarin (Citrus unshiu Marcovitch) in Alabama. This study was conducted to evaluate the potential of three commercially available predacious mite species (Acari: Phytoseiidae), Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot, Galendromus occidentalis (Nesbitt), and Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor), as biological control agents of P. citri. The functional responses (at densities ranging from 2 to 150 P. citri immature per leaf disc arena) and prey-stage preferences (when offered varying ratios of P. citri eggs and nymphs) of the phytoseiids were investigated in laboratory experiments. All three species were modestly effective in regulating P. citri nymph density, but very few eggs were laid by each on the prey. Logistic regression analysis suggests a Type II (convex) functional response for all three species: the number of prey consumed increased with prey availability up to a maximum point after which it slowly began to decrease. The maximum daily predation was recorded at a prey density of 75 P. citri nymphs per arena for female P. persimilis and G. occidentalis, and at a density of 100 nymphs per arena for female N. californicus. Results from experiments on prey-stage preferences showed that all three phytoseiids preferred nymphs to eggs of P. citri. Food deprivation for up to 48 h had no significant effect on the number of prey consumed or the prey-stage preferences of the phytoseiids. Among the three species, P. persimilis had the highest predation potential, in particular at high prey densities. These results are discussed in relation to the feeding habits and specialization of the phytoseiids and their potential for biological control of P. citri in citrus orchards.
Fired Up and Loaded for Bear

Three plausible psychoanalytic interpretations of a poem by Billy Collins are presented: one based on the psychoanalytic concept of reaction formation; another on the psychoanalytic view that the aims of civilization require certain renunciations of instinctual gratification; and a third on Sigmund Freud’s suggestion in Jokes and Their Relation to the Unconscious (1905) that irony is a subspecies of the comic. While the first two interpretations focus on the subject—the poem’s protagonist—the third focuses on its technique. As a result, the third interpretation is likely to be more useful to readers who wish to apply it to their own life-situations. To illustrate this fact, the author relates the poem to his own life-situation, which is that of entering older adulthood.
ARS replication during the yeast S phase

Abstract A 1.45 kb circular plasmid derived from yeast chromosome IV contains the autonomous replication element called ARS1 . Isotope density transfer experiments show that each plasmid molecule replicates once each S phase, with initiation depending on two genetically defined steps required for nuclear DNA replication. A density transfer experiment with synchronized cells demonstrates that the ARS1 plasmid population replicates early in the S phase. The sequences adjacent to ARS1 on chromosome IV also initiate replication early, suggesting that the ARS1 plasmid contains information which determines its time of replication. The times of replication for two other yeast chromosome sequences, ARS1 and a sequence referred to as 10Z, indicate that the temporal order of replication is ARS1 → ARS2 → 10Z. These experiments show directly that specific chromosome regions replicate at specific times during the yeast S phase. If ARS1 elements are origins of chromosome replication, then the experiment reveals times of activation for two origins.
The Vertical Organization of Industry: Systems Competition versus Component Competition

We discuss two contrasting styles of vertical organization of complementary activities or components in an industry: systems competition versus component competition. When firms' competencies differ, systems competition is not a perfect substitute for component competition, even with Bertmnd behavior. Costs, prices, industry profits, and the distribution of those profits among firms all differ between the two styles of organization. Moreover, firms' profit incentives do not generally guide them towards the socially efficient form of vertical organization. In duopoly, there is a bias towards open organization (component competition), but with enough firms (three or more, in an exponential example) this bias is reversed.
Antibody to calretinin stains AII amacrine cells in the rabbit retina: Double-label and confocal analyses

The AII or rod amacrine cell is a critical interneuron in the rod pathway of mammalian retinae. In this report, it is shown that commercially available antibodies to the calcium binding protein calretinin may be used to label the population of AII amacrine cells selectively. Calretinin-positive amacrine cells had the morphological attributes of AII amacrine cells. Double-labeling procedures showed that calretinin-positive somata were surrounded by dopaminergic varicosities and that calretinin-positive dendrites enclosed rod bipolar terminals, both as previously described for AII amacrine cells. By analyzing the surrounding kernel for each labeled pixel in the rod bipolar image, it is shown here that AII processes are adjacent to rod bipolar terminals at a level that far exceeds the random overlap present in images in which one label was rotated out of phase. Such a spatial relationship is indicative of synaptic connections, as well described for rod bipolar input to AII amacrine cells. AII amacrine cells also were double-labeled for calretinin and parvalbumin; however, a scattergram analysis of red versus green intensity showed that the parvalbumin antibody stained additional unidentified amacrine cells. In conclusion, at the appropriate dilution, calretinin antibodies are a useful marker for AII amacrine cells in the rabbit retina.
Minimum Period of Electronic Oscillators

This paper considers the general problem of determining the conditions to achieve the minimum period of oscillation, regardless of wave shape, for simple electronic oscillators. In particular, emphasis is placed on the general minimum period problem for the tunnel-diode oscillator having a series inductiveresistive load. The minimum period of oscillation is established by varying the load's parameters. Various nonlinear analysis techniques show that the minimum period of oscillation is never obtained for a harmonic mode of oscillation. It is shown that the minimum period of oscillation is obtained by using no externally added inductance, and, for typical tunnel diodes, a load resistance approximately equal to zero. The results are confirmed by experiment. The conditions are also given for determining whether the tunnel diode will operate as a soft oscillator, hard oscillator, or be truly bistable.
Simultaneous and independent tuning of RhoA and Rac1 activity with orthogonally inducible promoters

The GTPases RhoA and Rac1 are key regulators of cell spreading, adhesion, and migration, and they exert distinct effects on the actin cytoskeleton. While RhoA classically stimulates stress fiber assembly and contraction, Rac1 promotes branched actin polymerization and membrane protrusion. These competing influences are reinforced by antagonistic crosstalk between RhoA and Rac1, which has complicated efforts to identify the specific mechanisms by which each GTPase regulates cell behavior. We therefore wondered whether RhoA and Rac1 are intrinsically coupled or whether they can be manipulated independently. To address this question, we placed constitutively active (CA) RhoA under a doxycycline-inducible promoter and CA Rac1 under an orthogonal cumate-inducible promoter, and we stably introduced both constructs into glioblastoma cells. We found that doxycycline addition increased RhoA activity without altering Rac1, and similarly cumate addition increased Rac1 activity without altering RhoA. Furthermore, co-expression of both mutants enabled high activation of RhoA and Rac1 simultaneously. When cells were cultured on collagen hydrogels, RhoA activation prevented cell spreading and motility, whereas Rac1 activation stimulated migration and dynamic cell protrusions. Interestingly, high activation of both GTPases induced a third phenotype, in which cells migrated at intermediate speeds similar to control cells but also aggregated into large, contractile clusters. In addition, we demonstrate dynamic and reversible switching between high RhoA and high Rac1 phenotypes. Overall, this approach represents a unique way to access different combinations of RhoA and Rac1 activity levels in a single cell and may serve as a valuable tool for multiplexed dissection and control of mechanobiological signals.
Ethylene glycol poisoning: Case report of a record-high level and a review

Ethylene glycol is commonly found in automobile antifreeze and a variety of other commercial products. Ingestion of ethylene glycol, either accidentally or in a suicide attempt, is characterized by severe acidosis, calcium oxalate crystal formation and deposition, and a wide variety of end organ effects that may be fatal. We present a case of a patient who ingested a massive amount of ethylene glycol in a suicide attempt and yet survived with minimal sequelae. A comprehensive review of the literature on the pathology and pathophysiology of ethylene glycol toxicity on each organ system is provided, along with information on diagnosis and current treatment recommendations.
Friedel-Crafts polymerizations. III. Polymerization of carbazole and N-alkyl derivatives with chloromethyl methyl ether/aluminum chloride

Polymerisation par alkylation du carbazole et de ses derives N-methyl, N-ethyl et N-propyl, en substances insolubles fortement colories et infusibles (reticulation)
Regulation of Adolescent Sleep: Implications for Behavior

Adolescent development is accompanied by profound changes in the timing and amounts of sleep and wakefulness. Many aspects of these changes result from altered psychosocial and life-style circumstances that accompany adolescence. The maturation of biological processes regulating sleep/wake systems, however, may be strongly related to the sleep timing and amount during adolescence-either as "compelling" or "permissive" factors. The two-process model of sleep regulation posits a fundamental sleep-wake homeostatic process (process S) working in concert with the circadian biological timing system (process C) as the primary intrinsic regulatory factors. How do these systems change during adolescence? We present data from adolescent participants examining EEG markers of sleep homeostasis to evaluate whether process S shows maturational changes permissive of altered sleep patterns across puberty. Our data indicate that certain aspects of the homeostatic system are unchanged from late childhood to young adulthood, while other features change in a manner that is permissive of later bedtimes in older adolescents. We also show alterations of the circadian timing system indicating a possible circadian substrate for later adolescent sleep timing. The circadian parameters we have assessed include phase, period, melatonin secretory pattern, light sensitivity, and phase relationships, all of which show evidence of changes during pubertal development with potential to alter sleep patterns substantially. However the changes are mediated-whether through process S, process C, or by a combination-many adolescents have too little sleep at the wrong circadian phase. This pattern is associated with increased risks for excessive sleepiness, difficulty with mood regulation, impaired academic performance, learning difficulties, school tardiness and absenteeism, and accidents and injuries.
Small-signal and 30-GHz power performance of AlGaN/GaN HFETs without back barriers

Recently, back barrier structures using Al GaN or InGa N have commonly been employed for GaN heterostructure field-effect transistors (HFETs) with a goal of developing high-power amplifiers in the mm-wave frequency range [1–4]. However, the back barrier possibly ca uses some disadvantages such as decrea ses in electron density (n s ) and t hermal conductivity in exchange for an improvement on output conductance due to its strong carrier confinement. In this work, we characterized capabilities of AlGaN/GaN HFETs without a back barrier for the mm-wave high-power applications. To enhance charge control, the device relied solely on a high gate aspect ratio design by using an extremely thin AlGaN top barrier instead of the back barrier. The decrease in n s caused by the thin AlGaN barrier can be compensated by SiN x deposition [5]. Similar device structures with agate length (L g ) of 6 0 n m have demonstrated record R F small-signal characteristics in previous work [6]; therefore, we studied the applicability of this concept to large-signal applications.
Stability - Indicating Hplc Assay of Zidovudine in Extemporaneous Syrup

This investigation was undertaken to develop a stability-indicating high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) assay for zidovudine (AZT) in an extemporaneous oral liquid form. A gradient eluti...
Current status of embolectomy for acute massive pulmonary embolism

Abstract Although embolectomy for acute massive pulmonary embolism first was suggested by Trendelenburg more than 56 years ago, this operation was not performed successfully in the United States until 1958, and as late as 1961 only 23 reports of long term survival following pulmonary embolectomy had appeared in the world medical literature. Use of temporary cardiopulmonary bypass for pulmonary embolectomy was described in 1961 and offered far more favorable circumstances for operation. Since that time, more patients with acute massive pulmonary embolism have been salvaged by embolectomy than survived operation in the previous half century. Our experience with pulmonary embolectomy employing temporary cardiopulmonary bypass for otherwise fatal, acute massive pulmonary embolism now includes 8 cases, 4 of which were successful. Experimental investigations and clinical experience have demonstrated advantages of partial cardiopulmonary bypass for resuscitating these patients prior to definitive embolectomy. Recent improvements in and simplifications of pump oxygenators should provide far more widespread availability of bypass for such procedures. Embolectomy for acute massive pulmonary embolism now should be considered in the same category as massage for cardiac arrest. No longer should the lifesaving advantages of such a procedure be offered only to those patients in major medical centers.
Trout Ovulatory Proteins: Site of Synthesis, Regulation, and Possible Biological Function

Abstract The mRNA transcripts for trout ovulatory proteins (TOPs) are dramatically up-regulated at the time of ovulation. Previous studies indicated that TOPs were produced by the ovaries and were also present in the coelomic fluid that bathes ovulated eggs. In the present study, Western analysis indicated that TOPs were not present in the coelomic fluid prior to ovulation and therefore must be secreted into the coelomic fluid in large quantities during and after ovulation. Using in situ hybridization and immunocytochemistry, TOP mRNA and proteins were localized to the granulosa cell layer of the postovulatory follicle. A whole-follicle in vitro incubation system was used to look at the effects of various mediators on TOP mRNA and protein levels. Results of several different secondary messenger agonists suggest that TOPs are regulated through a G protein-mediated pathway that does not involve cAMP but may involve the activation of protein kinase C. Other agonists that had significant effects on TOP RNA an...
Monotone iteration methods with adaptive collocation for solving coupled systems of nonlinear boundary value problems

Abstract Monotone iteration procedures are developed for the solution of a class of coupled and highly nonlinear boundary value problems. These procedures are of guaranteed convergence and can be used for a numerical investigation of the multiplicity structure of steady-state solutions. The monotone iterations provide also a basis for an automatic scheme for adapting and refining the collocation point grid between iterations. The local error of approximation is controlled very accurately and problems exhibiting extremely steep multiple concentration profiles of significantly different scales can be treated.
Theoretical rheology of rod-like ferromagnetic particle suspensions

Abstract The dynamics of rod-like, rigid dipolar particles is discussed in connection with the rheology of ferro- and paramagnetic particle suspensions.
Decision-Making Model for Base Material Options

On the majority of Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) highway projects, each bidder may choose which base material to use to construct a project. The choice usually comes down to an aggregate base (typically limerock) or a hot-mix asphalt base. When only initial cost parameters are used, the limerock alternative appears to be the most cost-effective. However, some or all of the savings experienced in the purchase may be offset when the total costs, including road user and construction engineering and inspection costs, are considered. An economic model that includes life-cycle cost is needed to evaluate fully the many trade-offs encountered when these decisions are being made. However, state highway officials report that life-cycle costs are not considered in selection of base material; therefore, the scope of this paper is limited to the construction costs associated with each option. The objective of this paper is to report on the development of a method to determine which alternative would be t...
Anovulation in the prevention of cytotoxic-induced follicular attrition and ovarian failure

BACKGROUND Gonadal failure secondary to alkylating agents may be related to ovulatory status. The objective of this investigation was to evaluate whether anovulation protected ovarian follicles during treatment with cyclophosphamide. METHODS Four groups (n = 20 mature female Sprague-Dawley rats per group) were studied: control (group I), 5 mg/kg/day cyclophosphamide only (group II), 5 mg/kg/day cyclophosphamide and the combination of 50 micro g ethinyl estradiol/2 mg norgestrel (group III) and 5 mg/kg/day cyclophosphamide and 2.5 micro g leuprolide acetate daily (group IV). Animals were sacrificed after 4 weeks of treatment. Follicles were classified as medium (300-450 micro m) and large (>450 micro m) per section of ovary. RESULTS Group II developed a significantly greater number of medium and large follicles [15.1 +/- 6.1 and 4.9 +/- 1.9 (mean +/- SD), respectively] compared with group I [7.1 +/- 2.1 and 1.0 +/- 0.7 (mean +/- SD), respectively] (P </= 0.05). Groups III and IV developed a significantly greater number of medium follicles [13.2 +/- 2.5 and 10.8 +/- 2.3 (mean +/- SD), respectively) compared with group I (P < or = 0.05). There was a trend toward a greater number of large follicles in groups III and IV when they were compared with group I. There were no differences in medium follicles in groups II, III and IV. No differences were noted in the number of large follicles between groups III and IV (2.9 +/- 1.2 and 2.3 +/- 1.0, respectively). CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that in the rat model, cyclophosphamide exerts a stimulatory effect on the ovary resulting in the greater development of both medium and large follicles. Anovulation conferred no protection against cyclophosphamide-induced gonadal toxicity. These data suggest that in the rat model, cyclophosphamide may result in ovarian failure by enhancing recruitment of follicles regardless of ovulatory status or hormonal milieu.
Thermal properties of composites with bismaleimide‐vinyl poly(styrylpyridine) blends

Thermal properties, flammability, and selected mechanical properties of eight different graphite composite panels fabricated using four different resin matrices and two types of graphite reinforcement were investigated and compared with the properties of an epoxy composite, MXB 7203. The resin matrices included XU71775/H795, a blend of vinyl poly(styrylpyridine) and bismaleimide; H795, a bismaleimide; Cycom 6162, a phenolic; and PSP 6022M, a poly(styrylpyridine). The graphite fiber was AS-4 used in the form of tape or fabric. It was found that the XU71775/H795 blend with the graphite tape was the optimum design giving the lowest heat release rate, while the control epoxy panel exhibited the highest total heat release and heat release rates, highest smoke and CO evolution, highest mass losses, and lowest oxygen index of all the composites tested.
Bringing Business Objects into Extract-Transform-Load (ETL) Technology

Business objects represent the key concepts that a business needs to operate such as people, services, products, etc. but transforming these objects to and from existing data models can be difficult. Business objects have traditionally been represented in a backend data store using relational databases, and techniques for transformation must work with these stores. But such access may violate the encapsulation these business objects require, and so conventional approaches may not provide an adequate solution. In this paper, we examine how to use Extract-Transform-Load (ETL) tools to provide business object transformations. We show how to solve some of these issues by using pluggable components and introduce customized operators for ETL tools. We demonstrate our solution using a commercial ETL system that allows access to several Product Data Management systems and illustrate the use of our technique with several case studies drawn from various industries.
Muscle free flaps with full-thickness skin grafting: Improved contour over traditional musculocutaneous free flaps.

Occasionally, the aesthetic contour of a musculocutaneous flap can be improved by using the skin paddle as a full-thickness skin graft to cover the free muscle flap. In three patients, traditional musculocutaneous free flap coverage of wounds would have resulted in excess soft tissue bulk. To optimize final contour, the subcutaneous tissue was excised, and the skin replaced as a full-thickness skin graft. Problems with postoperative flap monitoring and skin graft take were not encountered. This technique offers the microsurgeon a simple method to optimize the aesthetic results of composite free tissue transfer.
Organisational Functioning: A Behavioral Analysis

The article reviews the book “Organisational Functioning: A Behavioral Analysis,” by Michael C. Knowles.
Using Virtual Linux servers

IBM has invested millions of dollars on Linux development and made the open-source operating system available on its entire server line. The company's recently announced Virtual Linux-On-Demand service will, for the first time, let companies access large-scale computing over the Internet. Instead of physical servers, customers will be able to tap into virtual servers on mainframes running Linux and be billed only for the computing power and resources they use. This will facilitate creation of e-utilities as well as help establish virtual organizations through grid technologies that enable rapid resource deployment. The paper considers how Marist College's School of Computer Science and Mathematics initiated a joint project with IBM built around using such servers. The college's IBM S/390 mainframe can run hundreds of Linux systems as virtual servers, all within a single logical partition.
The Rapid Decomposition of Biological Materials by Using a Microwave Acid Digestion Bomb

A microwave acid decomposition technique was evaluated for decomposing biological standard reference materials (NBS oyster tissue and bovine liver) for trace metal analyses. Dissolution consisted of HNOs decomposition in a closed Teflon bomb. A microwave oven was used as the heat source. Complete decomposition times were less than 1 min. Resulting solutions were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry for Cd, Cu, Fe, Pb, and Zn. Recoveries were estimated by comparison with National Bureau of Standards certified values. The precision and accuracy of the results ranged from 1 to 13% and 93 to 106%, respectively.
Graph theoretic methods in the stability of vehicle formations

This paper investigates the stabilization of vehicle formations using techniques from algebraic graph theory. The vehicles exchange information according to a pre-specified (undirected) communication graph, G. The feedback control is based only on relative information about vehicle states shared via the communication links. We prove that a linear stabilizing feedback always exists provided that G is connected. Moreover, we show how the rate of convergence to formation is governed by the size of the smallest positive eigenvalue of the Laplacian of G. Several numerical simulations are used to illustrate the results.
Fiber optic sensors for intruder detection

The fiber optic sensor system program is a US Navy research effort for developing a generic sensor technology; it has a wide variety of applications in weapon systems and is exploring the unique advantages of both phase- and intensity-modulated sensors. An overview is provided of fiber optic sensor technology and various multiplexing techniques for distributed fiber optic sensors. The application of this technology to intruder detection is also discussed. >
Diffusive coupling can induce synchronized periodic activity in neural networks

Diffusive coupling also known as nearest-neighbor coupling is a common form of coupling but its role in the behavior of neural circuits is unclear. Previous experimental and theoretical studies have shown that potassium lateral diffusion coupling (i.e., diffusive coupling) was responsible for synchronization of neuronal activity. We tested the hypothesis that potassium lateral diffusion coupling is required to generate periodic epileptiform activity in a zero-Ca2+ CA1 pyramidal neuron network model. The simulation results show that potassium lateral diffusion coupling is crucial for establishing a periodic synchronized epileptiform activity similar to that observed in experimental preparations. This results suggest that potassium lateral diffusion coupling - a physiological realization of the concept of diffusive coupling - can play a role in network behavior.
Post-Paleozoic alluvial gravel transport as evidence of continental tilting in the U.S. Cordillera

The western United States contains three thin but remarkably widespread alluvial conglomeratic units that record episodes of large-scale tilting across the U.S. Cordilleran orogen in post-Paleozoic time. These units are: (1) the Shinarump Conglomerate of Late Triassic age exposed in northern Arizona and adjacent parts of Utah, Nevada, and New Mexico; (2) Lower Cretaceous gravel deposits that overlie the Morrison Formation throughout the Rocky Mountain region; and (3) the gravel-rich parts of the Miocene-Pliocene age Ogallala Group in western Nebraska and adjacent southeastern Wyoming. Paleoslopes of the rivers depositing these units were in the range of 10 24 to 10 23 , based on paleohydraulic calculations. However, depositional thickness trends of these units are not sufficient to have generated such steep paleoslopes. Thus, long wavelength tilting of the Earth’s surface must have occurred for these gravels to be transported. Although these units were deposited adjacent to large tectonic features, including an evolving and migrating continental arc, and, for the Ogallala Group, the northward-propagating Rio Grande Rift, the tilting occurred over wavelengths too broad to be directly generated by these features. These widespread gravel units attest to the interplay between the creation of subduction-related isostatic and dynamic topography and continental sedimentation. Hence, paleotopography, as determined from calculated transport gradients of sedimentary deposits, provides a
Effect of first-phase polarity of biphasic shocks on defibrillation threshold with a single transvenous lead system

Abstract Objectives. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the polarity of the first phase of a biphasic shock affects the defibrillation threshold. Background. The polarity of a monophasic shock has been shown to affect the defibrillation threshold. Methods. A transvenous defibrillation lead with distal and proximal shocking electrodes was used in this study. In 15 consecutive patients, the defibrillation threshold was determined twice using a step-down protocol, in random order: with the distal coil as the anode for the initial phase (anodal biphasic shock) and with the polarity reversed (cathodal biphasic shock). The power to detect a 5.0-J difference in this study is 0.96. These patients were 61 ± 11 years old (mean ± SD), and the mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 0.32 ± 0.10. Results. Mean defibrillation threshold using anodal biphasic shocks was 9.9 ± 4.8 J, compared with 9.5 ± 4.2 J using cathodal biphasic shocks (p = 0.8). In three patients the defibrillation threshold was lower by a mean of 6.3 ± 2.9 J with the former configuration; in three patients the defibrillation threshold was lower by a mean of 6.7 ± 2.5 J with the latter configuration; and in nine patients it was the same. Using the standard cathodal configuration, a defibrillation threshold ⩽10 J was obtained in to 70% of patients, and a subcutaneous patch was not required in any patient. Conclusions. The polarity of the first phase of a biphasic shock used with a single transvenous lead does not affect the defibrillation threshold.
Practical low delay broadcast of compressed variable bit rate movies

H.264 is currently the best way to compress media to achieve high quality at low bandwidth. Since its inception, technologies such as video-on-demand are increasingly realizable. Periodic broadcast is a popular way of implementing video-on-demand, yet most current methods do not work on H.264 because they assume a constant bit rate stream and do not account for B frames. In this paper, we describe a new protocol for periodic broadcast of video-on-demand that works for variable bit rate streams with B frames. We map the periodic broadcast problem into the generalized windows scheduling problem of arbitrary length jobs on parallel machines. Our method is lossless and practical, in that it does not require channels of differing bandwidth. We apply our method to H.264 encoded video traces and achieve a delay of under 10 seconds on a 1.5 Mbps channel.
Medical Management of Angina Pectoris

The successful medical management of a patient with angina pectoris requires careful attention to many factors including omission of smoking, control of hypertension, and weight reduction for the obese person. Newer knowledge of the importance of the product of the systolic blood pressure and the pulse rate in determining the threshold of angina affords a more meaningful approach to therapy. Each individual must be educated regarding the factors that aggravate and precipitate his distress so that these can be minimized, or prophylactic nitrite therapy can be appropriately applied. Emotional stress is of equal importance to effort in the production of angina. The mainstay stay of treatment is nitroglycerin and sublingual nitrites combined with beta-blocking drugs. Each drug or combination must be properly readjusted for the individual to assure optimum benefit. Digitalis, diuretics, antiarrhythmic drugs, antihypertensive agents, and radioiodine may be useful in selected cases.
A sensitivity analysis approach to control of manipulators with unknown load

This paper presents a straightforward control strategy applied to an N-link manipulator holding an unknown load and driving its end effector along a prespecified trajectory. The control is constituted into two primary components. The non-adaptive component is derived from the inverse problem technique while the adaptive component is computed via the application of sensitivity analysis applied to the completes centralized dynamic model of the manipulator. The result is a robust adaptive controller which tunes its parameters at specified time instants and can withstand all expected variations of the payload. The control synthesis is illustrated by simulations in a 2-link planar manipulator holding an unknown load.
Architecture and circuit techniques for a reconfigurable memory block

A 2 kB reconfigurable SRAM block, using self-timed, pulse-mode circuits capable of emulating a portion of a cache or a streaming FIFO is realized in a 1.8 V 0.18 /spl mu/m CMOS process and operates at 1.1 GHz (10F04 cycle). The additional logic needed for reconfigurability consumes 26% of the total power and 32% of the total area.
Chromium(VI) Oxide

[1333-82-0] CrO3 (MW 99.99) (reagent for oxidizing carbon–hydrogen bonds to alcohols, oxidizing alkylaromatics to ketones and carboxylic acids, converting alkenes to α,β-unsaturated ketones, oxidizing carbon–carbon double bonds, oxidizing arenes to quinones, oxidizing alcohols to aldehydes, ketones, acids, and keto acids) Alternate Names: chromic anhydride; Chromic Acid in aqueous media. Physical Data: mp 196 °C; d 2.70 g cm−3. Solubility: sol ether, H2O, HNO3, H2SO4, DMF, HMPA. Form Supplied in: red crystals. Handling, Storage, and Precautions: caution: chromium(VI) oxide is a highly toxic cancer suspect agent. All chromium(VI) reagents must be handled with care. The mutagenicity of CrVI compounds is well documented.7 HMPA is also a highly toxic cancer suspect agent. Special care must always be exercised in adding CrO3 to organic solvents. Add CrO3 in small portions to HMPA in order to avoid a violent decomposition. This reagent must be handled in a fume hood. Each mol of chromium(VI) oxide has 1.5 equivalents of oxygen. The oxidizing power of the reagent increases with decreasing water content of the solvent medium. The oxidizing medium may be aqueous acetic acid,2, 3 anhydrous acetic acid (Fieser reagent),4 or concentrated5 or aqueous6 sulfuric acid.
Diaspora, Exile, Colonization: Masculinity Dislocated

With the help of 5 short vignettes that explore some aspects of clinical material and a brief personal experience, I discuss masculinity’s constitutive relationship with the normative center. Experiences occurring in the periphery of the canonical and outside the margins of the expectable expose masculinity’s anxious and unstable underpinnings. When dislocated, masculinity fans out into masculinities, roomier and airier versions of itself that allow for more and better living. Relying on psychoanalytic theory, I also propose that even as we encounter the amount of invisible cultural work that gives masculinity its seemingly natural appearance of robustness and vigor we have to take note of how our own internal relationships with the masculine center are enduringly conflicted. For the most part and despite our most stringent critiques, most of us, creatures of our cultures that we are, both frown upon and covet the masculine center.
Book Review - 7Twelve: A Diversified Investment Portfolio with a Plan

In the Preface of the book, 7Twelve: A Diversified Investment Portfolio with a Plan, Dr. Craig Israelsen sets the stage, or maybe I should say table, for the entire book. He refers to 7Twelve as a recipe for an investment portfolio. 'The recipe is more important than the ingredients. A poor recipe with good ingredients produces a poor end product. A great recipe with average ingredients produces an acceptable outcome. A great recipe with great ingredients is the ideal scenario...' (p. xiii). Chef Israelsen has measured this 'recipe' book into 15 bite-sized chapters. He utilizes historical data to show the effectiveness of his recipe (as much as 40-year performance history); highlights key points using text boxes; and includes tables, graphs, and figures to help the reader understand the topic discussion. Dr. Israelsen is currently an Associate Professor at Brigham Young University, teaching personal and family finance to over 1,200 students every year.
Transient Institutional Investors' Response to Insider Trade following Earnings Announcements

This study examines how institutions respond to insider trade in addition to accounting information. I show that transient institutions defined as those with short investment horizon and high turnover, reduce holdings in the following quarters when insiders are net sellers following earnings announcements. Moreover, I show that transient institutions significantly reduce more holdings when insiders are net sellers and firms also meet or beat analyst forecasts. In addition, I show that the greater reduction in transient institutional holdings when insiders are net sellers and firms also meet or beat analyst forecasts do not appear to be affected by earnings management and expectation guidance. Finally, I show that insider trade profits in terms of future abnormal returns are lower when transient institutional holdings are higher. Overall, these findings provide evidence on the ability of institutions to process insider trade information in addition to accounting numbers.
Types of mammalian ovary

We can distinguish among mammals at least three types of ovaries. They are represented among the rodents by the ovaries of the guinea pig, rat and rabbit.(1). In the first type, that of the guinea pig, in the oestrus period, preceding ovulation by a number of hours, the large majority of all follicles—all but the very small ones—begin to degenerate. In the larger follicles the granulosa becomes karyorrhectic en masse and connective tissue begins to grow into the follicular cavity after the destruction of the granulosa epithelium has progressed still further. In smaller follicles the process of destruction of the granulosa is less obvious and the granulosa cells disappear and here also connective tissue soon begins to invade the cavity. In the week following ovulation the very small follicles develop again and pass through their cycle; about eight days after ovulation the follicles have again reached full size and maturation on the one hand and atresia on the other hand can set in; this atresia usually aff...
Synchrotron X-ray Absorption Studies of Atomic-Level Alloying in Immiscible Mixtures

An X-ray absorption beamline has been developed recently at the electron storage ring of the LSU Center for Advanced Microstructures and Devices. Using Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS) and X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure (XANES), we have studied the local atomic environments in immiscible mixtures processed by high-energy ball milling, a mechanical alloying technique involving heavy deformation. By examining the local coordination and bond distances, it is concluded that atomic-level alloying can indeed be induced between Cu and Fe through milling at room temperature, forming substitutional fcc and bcc solid solutions. In addition to single-phase regions, a two-phase region consisting of fcc/bcc solutions has been found after milling at both room temperature and liquid nitrogen temperature. In contrast to the Cu-Fe system, solid solution formation is not detectable in milled Ag-Fe and Cu-Ta mixtures. This work demonstrates the power of synchrotron EXAFS/XANES experiments in monitoring nonequilibrium alloying on the atomic level. At the same time, the results provide direct experimental evidence of the capability as well as limitations of high-energy ball milling to form alloys in positive-heat-of-mixing systems.
Computational Chemical Biology of Methyllysine Histone Effectors

Lysine methylation is the most prolific posttranslational modification of histone proteins. Spatial arrangements of histone methylation marks (the histone code) mediate transcriptional activation or repression through the recruitment of methyllysine (KMe) effectors. The deregulation of the histone code is implicated in cancer and other diseases. Several effectors have been shown to undergo genetic alterations that often down-regulate tumor suppressor genes. This makes KMe effectors promising targets for therapeutic intervention. However, their biology and specific roles in disease are yet largely understood. In this review, we show how computational approaches help the chromatin research community to validate KMe effectors as therapeutic targets and initiate drug discovery projects. We provide examples of in silico applications ranging from virtual screening to structure-based design, to molecular dynamics in three major areas: (1) elucidating the principles of histone-effector recognition, (2) identification and optimization of small-molecule probes, and (3) understanding structural mechanics of effector proteins.
Study on the population and biology of cockroaches in Dandong

Objective To determine the population and biology of cockroaches in Dandong and to provide scientific evidence for the cockroaches control in Dandong.Methods Collecting cockroaches by cockroaches glue house.Results There were three species of cockroaches in Dandong.They were Blattella germanica,Periplaneta americana and Periplaneta japonica.Blattella germanica was dominant species in Dandong.The active period of cockroaches in Dandong was from January to December,the peak time of population density was from June to October.Conclusion The distribution region of cockroaches had broad range in Dandong,the surveillance of cockroaches must be strengthened further and integrated management must be taken to control the population density of cockroaches.