cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
BORDER DILEMMAS: RACIAL AND NATIONAL UNCERTAINTIES IN NEW MEXICO, 1848–1912

Anthony P. Mora, BORDER DILEMMAS: RACIAL AND NATIONAL UNCERTAINTIES IN NEW MEXICO, 1848–1912, Durham, NC: Duke University Press, 2011, xii + 379 pp., $24.95 (paper) The boundaries that separate and...
Neurohumoral mechanism involved in augmentation of canine jejunal absorption following oral rehydration solutions.

Throughout the world diarrheal diseases kill over 5 million children annually. Oral rehydration therapy, initially using glucose-based solutions and more recently cereal-based solutions, prevents complications and death from dehydration. These experiments compared the effect of these two rehydration solutions and a mixed meal on jejunal water and ionic transport. Five dogs had 25-cm proximal jejunal Thiry-Vella fistulae constructed. Following recovery, jejunal absorption studies (N=40) were performed using an isotonic electrolyte solution containing [14C]PEG to calculate net fluxes of water, sodium, and chloride. Each study consisted of a 1-hr basal period, followed by a 3-hr experimental period. Each animal was randomly studied in each of four study groups: control, mixed meal, glucose-based and cereal-based rehydration solution. In the mixed meal, glucose-based, and cereal-based solution groups there were significant increases (P<0.0001) in jejunal Thiry-Vella fistula water and ion absorption following the stimuli, in the absence of direct luminal nutrient contact with the Thiry-Vella fistula. There were no differences between the observed responses to the glucose-based or cereal-based rehydration solutions. Glucose-based and cereal-based rehydration solutions were equally effective in stimulating jejunal absorption of water and electrolytes, but less effective than a mixed meal. Both food and oral rehydration solutions appear to increase jejunal absorption partially via a neurohumoral mechanism that is independent of luminal nutrient contact with the Thiry-Vella fistula.
Automated Operational Orbit Determination for the Ice Cloud and Land Elevation Satellite Mission

Satellite operations depend on the ability to generate accurate predictions of a spacecraft ephemeris in a very short period of time. This operational ephemeris is used by the mission controllers to plan operations such as instrument pointing and orbit adjust maneuvers. This paper examines the methods and parameterizations necessary to achieve an accurate ephemeris quickly in an operational environment. The specific application described is for NASA's Ice Cloud and Land Elevation Satellite mission. The primary tracking data for the Ice Cloud and Land Elevation Satellite are global positioning system pseudorange and carrier phase. Near real time orbit determination accuracy with these observations is better than 2 m root-mean-square over a 24 h solution arc length. Because of stringent pointing requirements it is necessary to predict the satellite ephemeris to an accuracy of better than 400 m in-track after 48 h of prediction. This requirement has been achieved despite the significant drag perturbations on the 600 km altitude orbit. This paper presents the orbit determination and prediction techniques used in the Ice Cloud and Land Elevation Satellite operational system as well as examples of the orbit determination and prediction accuracy achieved.
Effect of γ‐Radiation on the Structure and Ionic Conductivity of 2 ‐ ( 2 ‐ Methoxy ‐ Ethoxy ‐ Ethoxy ) Polyphosphazene + LiCF3 SO 3

The ionically conducting polymer 2‐(2‐methoxy‐ethoxy‐ethoxy) polyphosphazene containing the salt lithium trifluoromethane sulfonate is a possible electrolyte for high energy density lithium batteries. AC impedance measurements were made on this material to determine its lithium ion conductivity. FT‐IR spectra were obtained on oriented samples to determine its molecular structure. The conductivity at 22°C was determined to be using inert electrodes. The material was subjected to γ‐radiation using a cobalt‐60 source in an attempt to cross‐link the polymer. Impedance and FT‐IR measurements were made after the irradiation. These results showed that cross‐linking occurred during irradiation. The polymer exhibited the same conductivity as it had before the irradiation but it was now highly viscous. Both characteristics are desirable.
Comparison of methods for evaluating the thermal stability of human enteric viruses

Human enteric viruses have been identified as one of the predominant causative agents of food-borne illnesses in developed countries, and it is estimated that human norovirus accounts for a majority of these illnesses each year. Not all of these viruses can be cultured and hence relatively little is known about their pathogenesis and physicochemical properties. To overcome this, researchers have utilized different virus surrogates for the study of non-cultivable human enteric viruses. In this review, we discuss various methods utilized for the evaluation of the thermal stability of human enteric viruses, compare the results of these methods, and examine how researchers may move toward a single standard approach (i.e., temperatures, virus concentrations, volume/weight of matrices, etc.) for determining thermal inactivation profiles of human enteric viruses and their surrogates. Based on our review, we found that temperature, time of exposure, type of matrix, analysis type, type of heat application, and the concentration and volume of virus used in the experiments were highly variable across virus surrogates even for the same surrogates. Because of these differences-along with the inherent limitations of using surrogate viruses-comparison of these methods and how the results may be extrapolated to human enteric viruses is quite challenging. As a result, we discuss how researchers may move toward a single standard approach for determining thermal inactivation profiles of human enteric viruses and their surrogates.
Petrology of the axial ridge of the Mariana Trough backarc spreading center

Abstract The axial ridge of the Mariana Trough backarc basin, between 17°40′N and 18°30′N rises as much as 1 km above the floor of a 10–15 km wide rift valley. Physiographic segmentation, with minor ridge offsets and overlaps, coincides with a petrologic segmentation seen in trace element and isotope chemistry. Analyses of 239 glass and 40 aphyric basalt samples, collected with alvin and by dredging, show that the axial ridge is formed largely of (olivine) hypersthene-normative tholeiitic basalt. About half of these are enriched in both LIL elements and volatiles, but are depleted in HFS elements like other rocks found throughout much of the Mariana Trough. The LIL enrichments distinguish these rocks from N-MORB even though Nd and Sr isotope ratios indicate that much of the crust formed from a source similar to that for N-MORB. In addition to LIL-enriched basalt there is LIL depleted basalts even more closely resembling N-MORB in major and trace elements as well as Sr, Nd and Pb isotopes. Both basalt varieties have higher Al and lower total Fe than MORB at equivalent Mg level. Mg# ranges from relatively “primitive” (e.g. Mg# 65–70) to more highly fractionated (e.g. Mg# 45–50). Highest parts of the axial ridge are capped by pinnacles with elongated pillows of basaltic andesite (e.g. 52–56%) SiO 2 . These are due to extreme fractional crystallization of basalts forming the axial ridge. Active hydrothermal vents with chimneys and mats of opaline silica, barite, sphalerite and lesser amounts of pyrite, chalcopyrite and galena formed near these silicic rocks. The vents are surrounded by distinctive vent animals, polychaete worms, crabs and barnacles. Isotope data indicate that the Mariana Trough crust was derived from a heterogeneous source including mantle resembling the MORB-source and an “arc-source” component. The latter was depleted in HFS elements in previous melting events and later modified by addition of H 2 O and LIL elements.
Predicting nonmutual therapy termination with the personality assessment inventory

Abstract Nonmutual termination represents an obstacle to successful psychotherapy. Despite a need to predict the likelihood of nonmutual termination, a variety of methodological issues have complicated research on potential predictors. The purpose of the current study was to test the validity of Personality Assessment Inventory indicators in predicting nonmutual, client-initiated termination. Results suggest that treatment amenability is significantly predictive of nonmutual termination for clients high, but not low, in treatment motivation. These findings are discussed in the context of previous literature and theory on psychotherapy process, and practical recommendations are offered for psychotherapists.
Individual and population growth in the asexually reproducing anemone Aiptasia pallida Verrill

Abstract The effects of feeding regime and zooxanthellae on individual and population growth of Aiptasia pallida (Verrill) were studied in a series of laboratory experiments. Individual and population growth were measured as biomass increase. Both individual and population growth were significantly affected by feeding regime while zooxanthellae enhanced growth only at the most infrequent feeding regime. Feeding regime had no significant effect on the number of individual anemones in the population produced asexually by pedal laceration after 8 wk, although there were temporal differences in pedal laceration between feeding regimes during this 8-wk period. Anemones fed three times per wk underwent little pedal laceration prior to week 4 with most individuals produced after week 4. In contrast, anemones fed once per 4 wk produced almost all anemones prior to week 4 with little subsequent pedal laceration. Zooxanthellae significantly increased the number of anemones produced by pedal laceration only among individuals fed at 4-wk intervals. Zooxanthellae had no effect on pedal laceration among individuals fed three times per week. Population growth, measured as weight change, after 4 wk was greater than individual growth for all treatments except aposymbiotic anemones fed at 4-wk intervals for which there was no significant difference between individual and population percent weight change. These results suggest that zooxanthellae enhance growth only during periods of prey scarcity and that asexual reproduction by symbiotic individuals increases biomass at a greater rate than does individual anemone growth.
Conceptual models and analytical tools: the biology of physicist Max Delbrück.

In 1949, at the height of his career in biology, Max Delbruck (19061981) delivered an address at the Connecticut Academy of Arts and Sciences entitled "A Physicist Looks at Biology." He explained to his audience that Niels Bohr's suggestion of the complementarity principle in biology as a counterpart to the complementarity principle in physics, had been the prime motive for his own interest in biology and might play a similar role for other physicists who came into the field of biology.' Throughout his long career in biology Delbruck continued to view himself as a physicist and his address upon winning the Nobel Prize for physiology of medicine in 1969 bore the familiar title, "A Physicist's Renewed Look at Biology: Twenty Years Later."2 Delbruck's rise to leadership in biology appeared to be rapid. Within a decade of his arrival from Berlin he established the foundations of a new field known as phage genetics, generally recognized as one of the most fruitful programs in gene research and a principal turning point in the development of molecular biology. That program, introducing the phage or the bacterial virus as a conceptual model for gene action and incorporating the analytical tools of mathematical physics, offered valuable information on genetic mechanisms. Despite the unorthodox mathematical methods in genetics and the choice of the obscure bacteriophage as a working model, the old establishment of classical geneticists regarded Delbruck's work with great respect and many of its leaders, including T. H. Morgan and H. J. Muller, promoted his research in biology. At the same time, leading physicists like Niels Bohr and Erwin Schrodinger publicized his accomplishments in the physics community with unreserved enthusiasm. By 1946 Delbruck had helped establish Cold Spring Harbor as a major center for molecular genetics; and in 1947, newly appointed as a
A comparison of solar activity during the decline of several solar cycles

Abstract This review summarizes the general characteristics of solar activity during the declining part of solar cycles and compares the behavior of the Sun during several last cycles. Different characteristics of solar activity are considered and tentative reasons for their different behavior in different cycles are suggested. The activity decline is usually very irregular, characterized by quiet periods interrupted by temporary bursts of activity. These bursts can be quite impressive: actually, as a rule, the most outstanding events of solar activity do not occur at the cycle maximum, but shortly before it, or a few years later. The duration of quiet periods between activity enhancements increases as the cycle declines, but even close to the solar minimum one may still encounter quite interesting flare events. From the point of view of solar-terrestrial relations, these late events are particularly favorable, because their effects in interplanetary space and in planetary magnetospheres can be followed much easier than during high solar activity: one can uniquely ascribe the observed consequencies in space to their isolated sources on the Sun.
Neurobehavioral sequelae of traumatic brain injury

The neurobehavioral sequelae of traumatic brain injury consist of a spectrum of somatic and neuropsychiatric symptoms. The neuropsychiatric symptoms are divided into cognitive and behavioral presentations. In the literature, these neurobehavioral sequelae have been called postconcussive symptoms, postconcussive syndrome, and postconcussive disorder; however, the authors of this review do not use this terminology because the symptoms are not restricted to patients with concussion but instead can be found in all traumatic brain injury patients of all injury severities. The development of neurobehavioral sequelae after traumatic brain injury is a multifactorial process. The patient evaluation requires a multidisciplinary approach in order to delineate physiologic dysfunction and place deficits in the context of the patient's preinjury and postinjury psychiatric status. Consequently, the evaluation of the posttraumatic brain injury patient with neurobehavioral sequelae requires a carefully structured history and physical examination with an emphasis on neurological and psychiatric function. Adjunctive evaluations must be tailored to the patient with neuroimaging, neurophysiological, and neuropsychiatric testing. Maximized outcomes may be achieved by the performance of a careful and detailed assessment that places complaints within the context of the individual.
Loop quantum cosmology in Bianchi type I models : Analytical investigation

The comprehensive formulation for loop quantum cosmology in the spatially flat, isotropic model was recently constructed. In this paper, the methods are extended to the anisotropic Bianchi I cosmology. Both the precursor and the improved strategies are applied and the expected results are established: (i) the scalar field again serves as an internal clock and is treated as emergent time; (ii) the total Hamiltonian constraint is derived by imposing the fundamental discreteness and gives the evolution as a difference equation; and (iii) the physical Hilbert space, Dirac observables, and semiclassical states are constructed rigorously. It is also shown that the state in the kinematical Hilbert space associated with the classical singularity is decoupled in the difference evolution equation, indicating that the big bounce may take place when any of the area scales undergoes the vanishing behavior. The investigation affirms the robustness of the framework used in the isotropic model by enlarging its domain of validity and provides foundations to conduct the detailed numerical analysis.
Effects of derivatives of cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP on contraction force of cat papillary muscles

Right ventricular kitten papillary muscles were incubated with dibutyryl adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (dbcAMP) at varying concentrations as low as 1 X 10(-4)M. A positive inotropic effect was observed with all concentrations of dbcAMP. Concomitant administration of 5 X 10(-4)M monobutyryl guanosine 3',5'-monophosphate (mbcGMP) and 1-2 X 10(-4)M dbcAMP prevented the inotropic response observed when dbcAMP was used alone. When higher doses of dbcAMP were used (5 X 10(-4) M, 10 X 10(-4) M), there was no significant difference in the inotropic response seen between control tissues and papillary muscles pretreated with mbcGMP.
Methemoglobin in hypoxic rats

Methemoglobin levels have been found to vary with altitude and to shift the hemoglobin-oxygen dissociation curve. In this study, hematocrits and methemoglobin levels were monitored in rats exposed to hypoxia (420 torr absolute) for various intervals. Hematocrits gradually increased throughout the period of hypoxia, while methemoglobin levels rose by 12 h, peaked at 24 h and returned to control level by day 6. These data, in the context of other work, suggest that increased methemoglobin is important in acclimation to hypoxia.
Selling privatization politically

The number of privatization transactions occurring in the world continues to grow apace. Predictions are that over $6 trillion in privatization assets will be sold over the next 20 years.1 And while the academic debate continues, practitioners continue to garner lessons on how to overcome both technical and political obstacles to implementing privatization transactions. The emerging lessons indicate that it is possible to achieve considerable efficiency and welfare gains from privatization. The real challenges are in finding creative mechanisms for overcoming the political impediments to privatization. The author analyzes the shift in focus from whether efficiency gains are possible with privatization to how to distribute the benefits. Recent innovations to address political constraints are analyzed, such as the greater use of markets to assess the value of firms, the use of giveaways to garner political support, and the array of instruments available to appease nationalistic fears of foreign takeover.
Absorption in the troughs of the far infrared spectra of NH3 and mixtures of NH3 and H2

Abstract The absorption coefficients in the troughs between the J-multiplets of the far infrared rotation-inversion spectrum of NH3 and NH3 broadened by H2 were measured at 296 K in the region from about 65–230 cm−1. Wave numbers were selected in the troughs that are removed from nearby weak absorption lines, and measurements of the absorption versus the density of NH3 and of H2 verified that the absorption was due to the wings of distant rather than nearby spectral lines. These measurements were compared with computations of the absorption arising from binary collisions of NH3–NH3 and NH3–H2 for uncoupled Lorentz lines. Except at the lowest and highest frequencies, the measured continuum absorption in the troughs was less than the computed absorption, a discrepancy that increased with increasing frequency. An improved representation of the measured absorption was obtained by fitting the Rosenkrantz line shape (Orton et al., unpublished) with the Ben-Reuven (Lightman and Ben-Reuven. J Chem Phys 1969;50:351–3) formulation of the line coupling coefficient of the inversion J-doublets. The application of these results to the spectrum of Jupiter shows clear differences between the spectrum of the above model and the Lorentz line shape, with the largest differences occurring in the clearest troughs.
On the non-Markovian structure of discrete order statistics

Abstract In this note we show that the Markov Property holds for order statistics while sampling from a discrete parent population if and only if the population has at most two distinct units. This disproves the claim of Gupta and Gupta (1981) that for geometric parent, the order statistics form a Markov chain.
LABRADOR: a learning autonomous behavior-based robot for adaptive detection and object retrieval

As part of the TARDEC-funded CANINE (Cooperative Autonomous Navigation in a Networked Environment) Program, iRobot developed LABRADOR (Learning Autonomous Behavior-based Robot for Adaptive Detection and Object Retrieval). LABRADOR was based on the rugged, man-portable, iRobot PackBot unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) equipped with an explosives ordnance disposal (EOD) manipulator arm and a custom gripper. For LABRADOR, we developed a vision-based object learning and recognition system that combined a TLD (track-learn-detect) filter based on object shape features with a color-histogram-based object detector. Our vision system was able to learn in real-time to recognize objects presented to the robot. We also implemented a waypoint navigation system based on fused GPS, IMU (inertial measurement unit), and odometry data. We used this navigation capability to implement autonomous behaviors capable of searching a specified area using a variety of robust coverage strategies – including outward spiral, random bounce, random waypoint, and perimeter following behaviors. While the full system was not integrated in time to compete in the CANINE competition event, we developed useful perception, navigation, and behavior capabilities that may be applied to future autonomous robot systems.
Fisheries applications of remote sensing: An overview

Abstract During the past 40 years the fisheries productivity of the world has been declining due to pressures from overfishing, habitat change, pollution, and climate change. Sustainable use of marine resources requires effective monitoring and management of the world's fish stocks. Remote sensing techniques are being used to help manage fisheries at sustainable levels, while also guiding fishing fleets to locate fish schools more efficiently. Fish tend to aggregate in ocean areas that exhibit conditions favored by specific fish species. Some of the relevant oceanographic conditions, such as sea surface temperature, ocean color (productivity) and oceanic fronts, which strongly influence natural fluctuations of fish stocks, can be observed and measured by remote sensors on satellites and aircraft. The remotely sensed data are provided in near-real time to help fishermen save fuel and ship time during their search for fish; to modelers who produce fisheries forecasts; and to scientists who help develop strategies for sustainable fisheries management. This article describes how acoustic, optical and radar sensors on ships, satellites and aircraft are used with forecast models to improve the management and harvesting of fisheries resources.
Proteomics in pathology research

Proteomics is a multifaceted approach to study various aspects of protein expression, post-translational modification, interactions, organization and function at a global level. While DNA constitutes the 'information archive of the genome', it is the proteins that actually serve as the functional effectors of cellular processes. Thus, analysis of protein derangements on a proteome-wide scale will reveal insights into deregulated pathways and networks involved in the pathogenesis of disease. Although the field of proteomics has advanced tremendously in recent years, there are significant technical challenges that pose limitations to the routine application of mass spectrometry to clinical research. Despite these challenges, proteomic studies have yielded unparalleled information and understanding of the cellular biology of diseased states. The application of mass spectrometry to the study of diseases will ultimately lead to identification of biomarkers that are critical for the detection, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of specific disease entities.
A Departmental Assessment Using the Core Competencies for Electronic Resources Librarians

The Electronic Resources and Serials Services (ERSS) department of Auburn University Libraries is using the core competencies for electronic resources librarians as an ongoing assessment tool. It is used for both individual self-assessment of skills and for a department-level assessment of strengths and weaknesses. The department's ultimate goal is to have every competency covered by two people.
Substrate age and precipitation effects on Hawaiian forest canopies from spaceborne imaging spectroscopy

Abstract We used spaceborne imaging spectroscopy provided by the Earth Observing-1 Hyperion sensor to quantify the relative importance of precipitation and substrate age that control ecosystem development and functioning in Metrosideros polymorpha rainforests of Hawaii. Four hyperspectral vegetation indices provided metrics of forest canopy structure, biochemistry and physiology to compare along gradients of annual rainfall (750 to > 6000 mm year− 1) and substrate age (0 to 250,000 years). The canopy greenness index NDVI increased with annual precipitation and substrate age, but saturated in forests with rainfall of 3000 mm year− 1. Precipitation and substrate age were roughly equal contributors to the observed greenness of the forests. A canopy water content index (NDWI) also increased with precipitation and substrate age, but did not reach a maximum until very wet (> 5000 mm year− 1) forest conditions were encountered on the oldest substrates. The water index appears superior to the NDVI in capturing spatial and climate–substrate driven variations in canopy structure. The photochemical reflectance index (PRI) indicated highest light-use efficiency levels in canopies on the most developed substrates and at annual precipitation levels of 3–4500 mm year− 1. A leaf carotenoid index (CRI) suggested a maximum canopy photosynthetic capacity at ∼ 4000 mm rainfall year− 1 on the oldest substrates. These results quantify the sensitivity of rainforest canopies to changing precipitation and soil conditions, and they corroborate plot-scale analyses in native Hawaiian forests ecosystems. Structural and functional studies of remote rainforest regions are possible with spaceborne imaging spectroscopy, and could be used to understand the dynamics of rainforests with climate change.
Indicial tensor manipulation on macsyma

We describe a new computational tool for physical calculations. It is the first computer system capable of performing indicial tensor calculus (as opposed to component tensor calculus). It is now operational on the symbolic manipulation system MACSYMA. We outline the capabilities of the system and describe some of the physical problems we have considered as well as others we are examining at this time.
Microwave permittivity and dielectric relaxation of a high surface area activated carbon

Carbonaceous materials are amenable to microwave heating to varying degrees. The primary indicator of susceptibility is the complex permittivity (e*), of which, the real component correlates with polarization, and the imaginary term represents dielectric loss. For a given material, the complex permittivity is dependent upon both frequency and temperature. Here we report the complex permittivity of a high surface area coconut shell activated carbon which is commonly used in analytical chemistry and a wide variety of industrial separations. Associated polarization-relaxation phenomena are also characterized. Broadband measurements were made using a high temperature compatible open-ended coaxial dielectric probe at frequencies between 0.2 and 26 GHz, and across the temperature region between 24 °C and 191 °C.
Novel rolltruded films. II: Effect of draw ratio on the gas transport properties of rolltruded isotactic poly(propylene)

Modification of the gas transport properties of rolltruded isotactic poly(propylene) films have been studied. Changes in the amorphous solubility, diffusivity, and the activation energies of CO2, N2, and CH4 in iPP rolltruded at 150°C for draw ratios to ca. 20 are recorded. At this processing temperature variations in the transport coefficients have been found to be weakly dependent upon draw ratio and do not suffer the dramatic reductions often reported in uniaxially drawn polymers. In general, the morphological differences between uniaxially drawn and rolltruded films are subtle and are responsible for the significant difference in the measured transport properties. © 1994 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A sensitive staining technique for the detection of phosphohydrolase activities after polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis.

Abstract A sensitive colorimetric method for the determination of Pi in the range 0.5–10 nmol has been adapted for detection of several phosphohydrolase activities in polyacrylamide gels. This procedure, which leads to the formation of a malachite green-phosphomolybdate complex, may be used with many commonly studied enzymes, such as acid and alkaline phosphatases, nucleotidases, and ATPases. Since detergents do not interfere with color development, this assay is useful for monitoring the activity of detergent-solubilized membrane enzymes as well as normally soluble enzymes.
Passive versus active consent: A case study in school settings

Considerable discussion has occurred over the past few years concerning the issue of passive versus active consent in psychological research involving children and adolescents. Some evaluators believe that passive consent should only be used in very restricted cases while other investigators are more comfortable in using passive consent that utilizes anonymous survey instruments which have minimal risk to the participants. The issue of passive versus active consent was examined in a case study involving youth access to tobacco study. Following the administration of questionnaires, one parent strongly objected to the use of passive consent. This issue was raised on-line via two electronic bulletin boards to solicit opinions concerning the ethics of using passive consent in this study. When these types of controversies occur, there are multiple points of view that need to be examined and considered. Issues involved in this controversy are discussed. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Tissue Cells Feel and Respond to the Stiffness of Their Substrate

Normal tissue cells are generally not viable when suspended in a fluid and are therefore said to be anchorage dependent. Such cells must adhere to a solid, but a solid can be as rigid as glass or softer than a baby's skin. The behavior of some cells on soft materials is characteristic of important phenotypes; for example, cell growth on soft agar gels is used to identify cancer cells. However, an understanding of how tissue cells-including fibroblasts, myocytes, neurons, and other cell types-sense matrix stiffness is just emerging with quantitative studies of cells adhering to gels (or to other cells) with which elasticity can be tuned to approximate that of tissues. Key roles in molecular pathways are played by adhesion complexes and the actinmyosin cytoskeleton, whose contractile forces are transmitted through transcellular structures. The feedback of local matrix stiffness on cell state likely has important implications for development, differentiation, disease, and regeneration.
KRAS Mutation: Should We Test for It, and Does It Matter?

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in the United States and worldwide. Previously, lung cancer was simplistically divided into non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and small-cell lung cancer. However, in the last decade, we have gone from a simplistic binary system of classifying lung cancer to defining NSCLC on the basis of molecular subsets. KRAS mutations represent the most common molecular change in NSCLC. The presence of KRAS mutation has been shown to be associated with a poor prognosis in NSCLC, but this is of little clinical utility. More important is determining the clinical utility of KRAS mutational analysis for predicting benefit of chemotherapy, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies, or other novel therapeutics. Current data does not support the routine use of KRAS mutational analysis for predicting chemotherapy benefit. Additionally, there was significant interest in using KRAS status to select patients for EGFR TKI and anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies. However, the EGFR mutational status has demonstrated significant predictive value in the selection of patients for EGFR TKI therapy and is now the preferred test. An association between KRAS mutational status and benefit of anti-EGFR monoclonal antibodies has not been demonstrated in NSCLC. Here we review, in the context of NSCLC, the underlying biology of KRAS mutations, the predictive value of KRAS mutations for therapeutic intervention, and the integration of KRAS mutational testing into our current clinical paradigms.
Creating Chaos at the Borders

The morbidity and mortality issues likely to arise for geriatric superstars are not unlike those already realized for so-called miracle babies. The therapeutic imperative and other social pressures, the technological imperative, financial interests, and media hyping have driven the overzealous medical-science pursuits of very old individuals and very young fetal infants. This article discusses lessons learned and lessons expected.
THE KILLING OF CERTAIN BACTERIA BY X-RAYS

Both copper K X-rays and the soft general radiation from a tungsten tube operated at 12 KV kill B. coli and B. aertryke in a linearly exponential fashion. Within the experimental limits, the two organisms appear to be equally sensitive to these radiations. By making use of the fact that X-ray energy is absorbed in quanta, an approximate picture can be formed of the mechanism of this destructive action. If the average numbers of quanta (α) absorbed per bacterium per second are calculated from measurements of air ionization using the quantities outlined in the text, survival ratios for these bacilli can be approximately represented by the equations See PDF for Equation for filtered copper rays and See PDF for Equation for unfiltered copper rays (peak voltage = 34 KV). In terms of the foregoing interpretation this means that when death results, it is caused by the absorption of a single X-ray quantum of energy. Since only about one in twenty of the absorbed quanta kills, the sensitive cell constituents whose destruction leads to cell death must have a volume which is less than 0.06 of the bacterium itself.
Convergence of rows of the Padé table

Some of the convergence theorems about rows of the Pade table of analytic functions are reviewed, especially Beardon's theorem and de Montessus' theorem. The progress on convergence theorems for the third row, the “poles out” theorem, and de Montessus' theorem for two variables are explained. Two conjectures about convergence of rows, one of which is a counterpart of the conjecture of Baker, Gammel and Wills for diagonal sequences, are boldly made.
STORAGE STABILITY OF CSM: ALTERNATE FORMULATIONS FOR CORN‐SOY‐MILK

SUMMARY —Corn-soy-milk (CSM), a high-protein food supplement for children, contains pregelatinized corn meal, soy flour, nonfat dry milk, vitamins and minerals. To increase the choice of possible ingredients, several formulations were studied. Flavor and chemical tests after storage at 77, 100, and 120°F were made on experimental samples containing corn meals and soy flours, dry whey, increased levels of nonfat dry milk, sucrose and dextrose hydrate. Stability was adequate for all formulations tested except those containing dextrose hydrate or unprocessed whole corn meal. At storage temperatures of 100°F or above, substantial losses in available lysine occurred in the samples containing dextrose hydrate.
Superficial CD34-positive fibroblastic tumor: report of 18 cases of a distinctive low-grade mesenchymal neoplasm of intermediate (borderline) malignancy

Fibroblastic mesenchymal tumors show a spectrum of biological behavior, from benign to fully malignant. We report our experience of two decades with a distinctive, previously undescribed low-grade fibroblastic tumor of the superficial soft tissues. Eighteen cases were identified within our consultation files, previously coded as 'low-grade sarcoma, not further classified' and 'malignant fibrous histiocytoma, low grade'. The tumors occurred in adults (median age 38 years, range 20-76 years) of either sex (10 males and 8 females), ranged in size from 1.5 to 10 cm (mean 4.1 cm), and were confined to the superficial soft tissues of the thigh (N=5), knee (N=2), and other sites. Histological features included a fascicular growth pattern of the neoplastic spindled cells with striking, often bizarre cellular pleomorphism and variably prominent nucleoli. Necrosis was seen in one case. All cases showed strong, diffuse CD34 positivity and 68% of tested cases demonstrated focal cytokeratin expression. Desmin, ERG, FLI-1, smooth muscle actin, and S100 protein were negative. TP53 overexpression was absent. Fluorescence in-situ hybridization studies for TGFBR3 and/or MGEA5 rearrangements were negative in all tested cases. Clinical follow-up was available in 13 patients (median duration of 24 months; range 1-104 months). Twelve of 13 patients had no disease recurrence. One patient had regional lymph node metastases, 7 years after incomplete excision of the primary tumor. All patients are currently alive and disease free. The unique clinicopathological features of superficial CD34-positive fibroblastic tumor define them as a novel subset of low-grade fibroblastic neoplasms, best considered to be of borderline malignancy.
Self-Assembly of Linactants: Micelles and Lyotropic Liquid Crystals in Two Dimensions

We report observations of phenomena within two-component Langmuir monolayers that are analogous to surfactant self-assembly in 3D solutions. A partially fluorinated fatty phosphonic acid played the role of 2D surfactant (linactant), and a perfluorinated fatty acid acted as the 2D solvent. Langmuir−Blodgett monolayers were prepared from mixtures of these compounds and examined using atomic force microscopy. Above a critical linactant mole fraction of ∼0.013, distinctive monodisperse structural features were observed with a characteristic diameter of ∼30 nm and a relative height of 1.4 nm. As the linactant concentration was further increased, the number density of these features increased linearly with concentration, whereas the size remained approximately the same. A quantitative analysis of these observations suggested that the features corresponded to self-limiting clusters composed of ∼2000 linactant molecules and that the dispersed clusters represented a 2D micellar phase. Above a linactant mole fracti...
Peripheral modulation of learning and memory: enkephalins as a model system.

Extensive research on the effects of enkephalins on conditioning is reviewed and used as the basis for a model of peripheral modulation of learning and memory. An overall theme emphasized throughout our discussion is that these peptides can influence the strength with which a memory is acquired and stored by acting outside the blood-brain barrier. This assertion is supported by research on the behavioral effects of systemically administered enkephalins and opioid antagonists, the rapid hydrolysis of circulating enkephalins in vivo, and the limited ability of these peptides to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. A consideration of the extensive distribution of enkephalins throughout peripheral autonomic systems leads to the proposal that enkephalins may act to modulate learning and memory by altering peripheral autonomic function; autonomic afferents may then communicate with the memory trace in the CNS through a central modulatory pathway outlined herein. Evidence that some stressful experiences may lead to increases in circulating enkephalins also is discussed. The sites of action of these circulating enkephalins may involve peripheral autonomic sites, or additionally may involve the circum-ventricular organs. As a further regulatory mechanism, circulating enkephalin levels may be controlled by experience-dependent alterations of the activity of enzyme systems that participate in their breakdown. Finally, it is emphasized that the mechanisms of enkephalin action postulated herein may be applicable to the actions of other peripheral hormones, peptides, and neurotransmitters that participate in the modulation of learning and memory storage processes.
Performance of NDE methods in bridge inspection

The relations between data from test methods and conditions in bridge elements are considered. NDE methods are joint applications of a test and a basis for interpretation of data obtained in the test. Correct assessments of conditions of elements depend on the inaccuracy and variability in test data and on the uncertainty of correlations between attributes (what is measured) and conditions (what is sought in the inspection). A full description of the performance of NDE methods considers the relation of test data to conditions of elements. The quality of the test itself is important, but equally important is the interpretation that occurs after the test. The effects of variability in test data and uncertainty in correlations of attributes and conditions are presented in three examples of field testing methods.
A strong boundedness theorem for dilators

We prove a strong boundedness theorem for dilators: if A ⊆ DIL is Σ^1_1, then there is a recursive dilator D_0 such that ∀D ∈ A (D can be embedded into D_0).
Enzymatic hydrolysis of histones in rat kidney microsomes

Abstract The microsomal fraction of rat kidney contains an enzyme which hydrolyzes basic proteins such as histones and protamine. However, the enzyme is present in all the organs of the rat to some degree. The enzyme is most active toward protamine and histones, but slightly active to ribonuclease. Albumin and globulin are completely resistant to the action of the enzyme. The optimum pH was found to be around 8 – 9, depending on the proteins used as substrate. Evidence indicates that the enzyme is not one of the cathepsins.
A User's Experience with Electric Heat Tracing

The use of electrical heat tracing systems can provide excellent flexibility in piping systems of chemical manufacturing plants located in areas subjected to subzero weather. However, eight years of experience with various types of systems in an Indiana pharmaceutical manufacturing plant has resulted in an annual concentrated effort to insure maximum performance. Challenges have arisen due to engineering design oversights, the improper installation of material, and unanticipated production techniques and ``immediate action'' procedures. Details of some of each of these challenges have been included as well as programs which have been initiated to overcome the problems. These programs have greatly improved the reliability of the heat tracing systems as well as allowing continued production operations regardless of the weather conditions throughout winter months.
Balancing allocation of subjects in biomedical research: a minimization strategy based on ranks

A new method for ensuring the comparability of groups of experimental subjects is proposed. All subjects are ranked on each measured pretreatment variable and differences between groups in the means and the standard deviations of these ranks are minimized by systematically exchanging subjects when those exchanges yield less imbalance between groups. This method was designed for small studies in which pretreatment data from all subjects are known before the start of the experiment. A series of computer simulations suggests that this procedure is effective in balancing groups on several variables although the amount of computer time required becomes excessive as the number of subjects is increased.
on Chinese, European & American universities

past three decades have seen an unprecedented expansion of higher education and, in the most recent time, efforts at reform and restructuring.1 My own university, Harvard, has overhauled its undergraduate curriculum in a comprehensive fashion for the 1⁄2rst time in thirty years. European universities have witnessed even more thoroughgoing changes in the structure of undergraduate education. But perhaps nowhere on earth have recent decades seen more revolutionary change in higher education than in the People’s Republic of China. Thirty years ago, Chinese universities were just reopening after the catastrophe of the Cultural Revolution. Today they are poised for positions of international leadership in research and education. The case of Wuhan University, arguably China’s oldest modern university, illustrates the dramatic changes the Chinese system of higher education has undergone in the past century. Wuhan and the surrounding province of Hubei have long been important centers of commerce, scholarship, and political leadership. It was the great reforming Governor-General Zhang Zhidong, who founded in 1893–1⁄2ve years before Peking University began–the “Self-Strengthening Institute” that would become Wuhan University. That university would be a witness to central events of China’s twentieth century: it was in Wuhan that the revolution that overthrew the Qing dynasty in 1912 began; Wuhan hosted one of the two contending Nationalist governments in 1927, and the retreating government of Chiang Kaishek in 1938. In the early People’s Republic, Wuhan became a great industrial sector. Today, western Hubei, upriver from Wuhan, is home to the largest engineering project in world history, the Three Gorges Dam (and even a “Three Gorges Dam University”). Wuhan University had a strong history of growth before 1949. It was then nearly destroyed during the Cultural Revolu-
Docetaxel/platinum in advanced non-small-cell lung cancer: recent randomized trials.

Abstract The role of docetaxel-containing doublets as first-line chemotherapy for patients with advanced and metastatic non—small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was evaluated in a large randomized trial. Docetaxel/cisplatin and docetaxel/carboplatin were compared with the reference regimen of vinorelbine/cisplatin. After adjustment for imbalances in prognostic factors, the overall survival of patients treated with docetaxel/cisplatin was significantly better than that of patients treated with vinorelbine/cisplatin, the reference regimen. Survival for patients on the docetaxel/carboplatin arm was noninferior to the same reference regimen. The major grade 3/4 hematologic toxicity was neutropenia, which affected approximately three fourths of the participants. Overall, the docetaxel/platinum arms were well tolerated. Both docetaxel/carboplatin and docetaxel/cisplatin appear to be effective first-line chemotherapy combinations for advanced NSCLC and are efficacious treatment options in this setting. The future of NSCLC therapy might lie in the development of novel treatment paradigms that involve the integration of targeted agents with traditional cytotoxic chemotherapy.
Is it time for a new approach to implantable cardioverter-defibrillator replacement?

With the expansion of indications for implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) for primary and secondary prevention of sudden cardiac death, >100,000 implantations of these devices are performed annually in the United States [(1,2)][1]. Of these, ∼25% are replacements of existing devices