cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Fiber spinning for reducing polarization mode dispersion in single-mode fibers: theory and applications

This paper surveys recent progress in fiber spinning technology for reducing polarization mode dispersion with the focus on theoretical understanding of fiber spinning mechanism and features of spun fibers, as well as their applications in fiber spin profiles designs. First, a brief introduction to the requirements of fiber PMD for high-speed optical fiber communications systems is given. Further discussion covers several spin technologies, including preform spinning and fiber spinning. Different theoretical approaches for modeling fiber spinning are reviewed with the emphasis on the coupled-mode formalism. The coupled-mode theory is then applied to different fiber spin profile designs, including constant, sinusoidal and frequency and amplitude modulated spin profiles. Main features of these spin profiles, such as PMD reduction dependence on fiber beatlength and sensitivity to spin parameters, are compared. Scaling properties of spun fibers, which show different behaviors from unspun fibers, are also discussed.
Butanol isomers exert distinct effects on voltage-gated calcium channel currents and thus catecholamine secretion in adrenal chromaffin cells.

Butanol (C4H10OH) has been used both to dissect the molecular targets of alcohols/general anesthetics and to implicate phospholipase D (PLD) signaling in a variety of cellular functions including neurotransmitter and hormone exocytosis. Like other primary alcohols, 1-butanol is a substrate for PLD and thereby disrupts formation of the intracellular signaling lipid phosphatidic acid. Because secondary and tertiary butanols do not undergo this transphosphatidylation, they have been used as controls for 1-butanol to implicate PLD signaling. Recently, selective pharmacological inhibitors of PLD have been developed and, in some cases, fail to block cellular functions previously ascribed to PLD using primary alcohols. For example, exocytosis of insulin and degranulation of mast cells are blocked by primary alcohols, but not by the PLD inhibitor FIPI. In this study we show that 1-butanol reduces catecholamine secretion from adrenal chromaffin cells to a much greater extent than tert-butanol, and that the PLD inhibitor VU0155056 has no effect. Using fluorescent imaging we show the effect of these drugs on depolarization-evoked calcium entry parallel those on secretion. Patch-clamp electrophysiology confirmed the peak amplitude of voltage-gated calcium channel currents (ICa) is inhibited by 1-butanol, with little or no block by secondary or tert-butanol. Detailed comparison shows for the first time that the different butanol isomers exert distinct, and sometimes opposing, effects on the voltage-dependence and gating kinetics of ICa. We discuss these data with regard to PLD signaling in cellular physiology and the molecular targets of general anesthetics.
Spin-flop bicritical point in Mn F 2

From measurements of the susceptibility and rf absorption, we have determined the phase diagram of Mn${\mathrm{F}}_{2}$ near its bicritical point which is located at ${T}_{B}=64.792\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.001$ K and ${H}_{B}=118.353\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.01$ kOe. Alignment of easy axis and applied field was achieved within 2\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}${10}^{\ensuremath{-}6}$ rad. We find, quite accurately, an anisotropy crossover exponent $\ensuremath{\varphi}=1.279\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.031$, in good agreement with renormalization-group predictions for an $n=3$ component system. However, the less exactly determined amplitude ratio $Q=1.56\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.35$ of the two phase boundaries to the paramagnetic state, lies between that predicted for $n=3$ and that for $n=2$. The nonuniversal slope $q$ of the $\stackrel{\ifmmode \tilde{}\else \~{}\fi{}}{t}=0$ scaling axis is $q=(1.19\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.15)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{\ensuremath{-}6}$ (k${\mathrm{Oe}}^{\ensuremath{-}2}$) and the amplitude ${w}_{+}$ for the spin-flop to paramagnetic phase boundary is ${w}_{+}=(2.67\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}0.3)\ifmmode\times\else\texttimes\fi{}{10}^{6}$ (k${\mathrm{Oe}}^{2}$).
Against Human Rights

Let me first explain what I am not attacking in this paper. I am not attacking, for instance, the right of free speech or any of the other specific rights listed in the U.S. Constitution's Bill of Rights or the United Nations' Charter. I am, rather, attacking any specific right's being called a ‘human right’. I mean to show that any such designation is not only fraudulent but, in case anyone might want to say that there can be noble lies, grossly wicked, amounting indeed to genocide.
Production and specificity of monoclonal antibodies against calmodulin from dictyostelium discoideum

Monoclonal antibodies were raised against calmodulin purified from Dictyostelium discoideum. To increase its antigenicity, the calmodulin was conjugated to keyhole limpet hemocyanin; mice were immunized with the conjugate. Hybridomas producing antibodies against calmodulin were identified by screening culture supernatants with calmodulin coupled to bovine serum albumin. The specificity of antibodies from hybridoma culture supernatants was tested by Western blot of Dictyostelium cell lysates. For the purpose, methods were developed that permitted sensitive detection of calmodulin bound to membranes. The key elements of the blotting protocol were used of PVDF membrane, transfer conducted in phosphate buffer, and glutaraldehyde fixation after transfer. These methods permitted detection of as little as 0.1 ng of calmodulin spotted directly onto the membrane, or 10 ng transferred from an SDS polyacrylamide gel. Ten calmodulin-specific antibodies were identified; most of these reacted preferentially with the calcium-containing form of Dictyostelium calmodulin. Several of the monoclonal antibodies cross-reacted with calmodulin from bovine brain.
During which month is it riskiest to drive in the United States

Objectives: This study examined the variation in the U.S. road fatality rate per distance driven across the months of the year. Method: The monthly fatality rates were analyzed for a 13-year period from 1994 through 2006. Results: The results indicate a systematic seasonal variation in the road fatality rate, with the highest rate in October and the lowest rate in March. Conclusion: The obtained seasonal variation in the road fatality rate is likely a result of a joint influence of several factors that exhibit seasonal variations themselves (the duration of darkness, consumption of alcohol, proportion of older drivers, amount of leisure driving, and inclement weather).
Antibodies to Mycobacteria in Human Tuberculosis. II. Response to Nine Defined Mycobacterial Antigens with Evidence for an Antibody Common to Tuberculosis and Lepromatous Leprosy

Antibodies to mycobacterial antigens were found in the sera of 33 of 52 patients with active tuberculosis by microimmunodiffusion tests. The highest titered sera were examined by a technique in which sera are placed in an intermediate gel between a reference goat antiserum field and a gel containing the antigens separated by one-dimensional electrophoresis. Special patterns caused by the presence of patient's serum during the two-dimensional electrophoresis showed that nine distinct antibodies could be designated by anodal migration of the corresponding nine antigens and the band position with respect to the reference pattern. Six of these antibodies were detected only by sera from selected patients, while the other three antibodies, "Lep," "Da," and "USJ 6," were also detected by the goat antiserum. Lep is present in patients with lepromatous leprosy but had never been described in those with tuberculosis. Monospecific human antisera were used to detect Lep and Da, and new antibody, during fractionation of mycobacterial culture filtrate.
A comparison of North Pacific and North Atlantic subtropical mode waters in a climatologically-forced model

Abstract Subtropical mode water (STMW), a water mass with homogeneous temperature and density and low potential vorticity, is formed in the subtropical gyres of both the North Pacific and North Atlantic Oceans. In the North Atlantic, this water mass is known as Eighteen Degree Water (EDW), while the corresponding water mass in the Pacific is identified as North Pacific Subtropical Mode Water (NPSTMW). This analysis compares properties of EDW with NPSTMW as well as the intrinsic oceanic variability of both, within the framework of a high resolution model with climatological atmospheric forcing. Interannual variability is evident in both volume and characteristics of EDW and NPSTMW, but the magnitude of variability is small, indicating that observed variability is largely forced by atmospheric changes. Volume of EDW is greater than volume of NPSTMW, but volume variability is similar in the two basins, and is dominated by the seasonal cycle in both cases. The most significant differences are found in the average ages of EDW compared to NPSTMW. Although the volume of STMW formed in each basin is similar, different circulation patterns lead to a higher average age in the North Atlantic, as EDW is more likely to be advected away from the formation region and remain subducted in the North Atlantic, while NPSTMW is more likely to be reventilated the following winter in the North Pacific.
Drug Insight: the role of leptin in human physiology and pathophysiology—emerging clinical applications

As detailed in this Review, leptin seems to act primarily in states of energy deficiency, and common forms of obesity are characterized by leptin resistance. Clinical trials have shown leptin to be effective in subjects with relative or complete leptin deficiency. Leptin is an adipocyte-secreted hormone with a key role in energy homeostasis. Studies in animal models, in humans with congenital complete leptin deficiency, and observational and interventional studies in humans with relative leptin deficiency (lower than normal leptin levels) have all indicated that leptin regulates multiple physiological functions, primarily in states of energy deficiency. This information led to proof-of-concept clinical trials involving leptin administration to individuals with relative or complete leptin deficiency. These conditions include congenital complete leptin deficiency, due to mutations in the leptin gene, and states of relative leptin deficiency including lipoatrophy and some forms of hypothalamic amenorrhea. Leptin, in replacement doses, normalizes neuroendocrine, metabolic and immune function in patients with these conditions, but further clinical studies are required to determine its long-term efficacy and safety. Management of leptin-deficient states with replacement doses of leptin holds promise as a therapeutic option. In addition, elucidation of the mechanisms underlying leptin resistance, which characterizes hyperleptinemic states such as human obesity and diabetes, might provide novel therapeutic targets for these prevalent clinical problems.
Why the elf acted autonomously: towards a theory of adjustable autonomy

Adjustable autonomy refers to agents' dynamically varying their own autonomy, transferring decision making control to other entities (typically human users) in key situations. Determining whether and when such transfer of control must occur is arguably the fundamental research question in adjustable autonomy. Practical systems have made significant in roads in answering this question and in providing high-level guidelines for transfer of control decisions. For instance, [11] report that Markov decision processes were successfully used in transfer of control decisions in a real world multiagent system, but that use of C4.5 led to failures. Yet, an underlying theory of transfer of control, that would explain such successes or failures is missing. To take a step in building this theory, we introduce the notion of a transfer-of-control strategy, which potentially involves several transfer of control actions. A mathematical model based on this notion allows both analysis of previously reported implementations and guidance for the design of new implementations. The practical benefits of this model are illustrated in a dramatic simplification of an existing adjustable autonomy system.
Adjusted-dose continuous-infusion cyclosporin A to prevent graft-versus-host disease following allogeneic bone marrow transplantation.

Graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) remains a major obstacle to allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. We administered cyclosporin A (CsA) by continuous intravenous infusion for prophylaxis against GVHD and adjusted the dose to maintain a constant whole blood level. Forty-five patients, ranging in age from 16 to 56, mean 39.5 years, undergoing allogeneic transplantation for various hematological malignancies received CsA as a continuous intravenous infusion. CsA was started on day −1 and continued until day +22 when oral CsA was initiated. The whole blood level of CsA was determined and the dose adjusted to maintain a fixed level. Methotrexate 15 mg/m2 i.v. was given on day +1, followed by 10 mg/m2 on days +3 and +6. CsA administered as a continuous infusion was well tolerated. All patients required multiple adjustments of the infused dose of CsA to maintain the targeted whole blood level. The mean rise in creatinine was 0.89 mg/dl. There was an association between the concomitant administration of amphotericin B and CsA and the development of nephrotoxicity. Hypertension developed in 30/45 patients, and all responded to oral nifedipine. Tremors were noted in 16/45 patients. None of the patients developed serious neurological side effects. Greater than grade-I acute GVHD developed in only 13% of the patients. We conclude that administering CsA as an adjusted dose by continuous intravenous infusion is well tolerated and effective in preventing acute GVHD in patients undergoing allogeneic bone marrow transplantation.
Chemical Dynamics Simulation of Ne Atom Scattering off a Squalane Surface

A chemical dynamics simulation was performed to study collisions between neon (Ne) atoms and a liquid squalane (2,6,10,15,19,23-hexamethyltetracosane) surface. Ten thousand trajectories were calculated, with an incident energy of 10 kcal/mol, incident polar angle 45° with respect to the surface normal, and random azimuthal angle. The final energy distribution, angular distribution, and impact sites were determined and analyzed. The incident Ne atoms have short residence times on the surface with most atoms successfully scattering within 3−7 ps. Due to thermal fluctuations of the surface, the incident energy is dissipated efficiently, and more than 60% of the initial energy of the Ne atoms is transferred with three or more “kicks” on the surface. For in-plane scattered Ne atoms with a final polar angle of 45°, the energy transfer is 58% ± 8%, which is in good agreement with the experimental value of 60% (J. Chem. Phys. 1993, 99, 7056). A bimodal energy distribution is observed for both in-plane and out-of-...
Growth of Plant Root Cultures in Liquid- and Gas-Dispersed Reactor Environments

The growth of Agrobacterium transformed "hairy root" cultures of Hyoscyamus muticus was examined in various liquid- and gas-dispersed bioreactor configurations. Reactor runs were replicated to provide statistical comparisons of nutrient availability on culture performance. Accumulated tissue mass in submerged air-sparged reactors was 31% of gyratory shake-flask controls. Experiments demonstrate that poor performance of sparged reactors is not due to bubble shear damage, carbon dioxide stripping, settling, or flotation of roots. Impaired oxygen transfer due to channeling and stagnation of the liquid phase are the apparent causes of poor growth. Roots grown on a medium-perfused inclined plane grew at 48% of gyratory controls. This demonstrates the ability of cultures to partially compensate for poor liquid distribution through vascular transport of nutrients. A reactor configuration in which the medium is sprayed over the roots and permitted to drain down through the root tissue was able to provide growth rates which are statistically indistinguishable (95% T-test) from gyratory shake-flask controls. In this type of spray/trickle-bed configuration, it is shown that distribution of the roots becomes a key factor in controlling the rate of growth. Implications of these results regarding design and scale-up of bioreactors to produce fine chemicals from root cultures are discussed.
DNA POLYMORPHISM WITHIN THE WH7803 SEROGROUP OF MARINE SYNECHOCOCCUS SPP. (CYANOBACTERIA)1,2

Genetic differences among ten strains of chroococcoid cyanobacteria (Synechococcus spp.) were identified by Southern blot hybridization. Data on shared number of restriction fragment length polymorphisms were used to identify the pattern and degree of genetic relatedness among the strains by two different methods of phylogenetic analysis. All the marine strains in the study contained phycoerythrin (PE) and cross-reacted with antisera directed against strain WH7803. Five contained a PE composed of phycourobilin (PUB) and phycoerythrobilin (PEB) Chromophores, and three contained a PE composed of only PEB chromophores. Two freshwater strains which do not contain PE and do not cross-react with the anti-WH7803 serum were included in the study for comparison. Dollo Parsimony analysis and cluster analysis showed that the WH7803 serogroup includes at least four widely separated genetic lineages. Strains within each lineages were closely related but the differences between lineages were as great as those between any of the marine lineages and the freshwater lineage. Strains cultured simultaneously from the same water mass were associated with different lineages. Thus, we conclude that natural assemblages of marine. Synechococcus are, at least occasionally, composed of individuals as genetically distinct from each other as members of different species or genera in other taxa.
Evidence for Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme– and Chymase-Mediated Angiotensin II Formation in the Interstitial Fluid Space of the Dog Heart In Vivo

Background—We have previously demonstrated that angiotensin II (Ang II) levels in the interstitial fluid (ISF) space of the heart are higher than in the blood plasma and do not change after systemic infusion of Ang I. In this study, we assess the enzymatic mechanisms (chymase versus ACE) by which Ang II is generated in the ISF space of the dog heart in vivo. Methods and Results—Cardiac microdialysis probes were implanted in the left ventricular (LV) myocardium (3 to 4 probes per dog) of 12 anesthetized open-chest normal dogs. ISF Ang I and II levels were measured at baseline and during ISF infusion of Ang I (15 μmol/L, n=12), Ang I+the ACE inhibitor captopril (cap) (2.5 mmol/L, n=4), Ang I+the chymase inhibitor chymostatin (chy) (1 mmol/L, n=4), and Ang I+cap+chy (n=4). ISF infusion of Ang I increased ISF Ang II levels 100-fold (P<0.01), whereas aortic and coronary sinus plasma Ang I and II levels were unaffected and were 100-fold lower than ISF levels. Compared with ISF infusion of Ang I alone, Ang I+cap...
Individual Placement and Support: Does Rurality Matter?

Little is known about the relationship between population density and employment rates in individual placement and support (IPS), the evidence-based approach to supported employment. Using longitudinal employment data from 87 agencies that provide IPS to clients with severe mental illness in diverse regions of the United States, we categorized and compared agencies according to population density data as metropolitan, micropolitan, or small town. We tested for an association between population density category and employment rate. Mean program-level competitive employment rates were 43% for 66 metropolitan, 49% for 14 micropolitan, and 40% for 7 small-town IPS programs. Population density of the community in which a supported employment program is located was not associated with program-level competitive employment rates. Despite differences in the number and diversity of employers, cultural norms, and other factors associated with population density, rurality does not adversely influence the effectivenes...
Robust presynaptic serotonin 5-HT1B receptor inhibition of the striatonigral output and its sensitization by chronic fluoxetine treatment

The striatonigral projection is a striatal output pathway critical to motor control, cognition, and emotion regulation. Its axon terminals in the substantia nigra pars reticulata (SNr) express a hi...
Measurements of the Neutron-Induced Fission Cross Sections of 234U, 236U, and 238U Relative to 235U from 0.1 to 30 MeV

We have measured the fission cross-section ratios 234U:235U, 236U:235U, and 238U:235U as a function of neutron energy from 0.1 to 30 MeV using ionization fission chambers and the time-of-flight tec...
Analysis of medullated axon exposed to radio-frequency electromagnetic radiation

Abstract A theoretical model is formulated to determine the electric field and thermal heating produced in a single neuron (medullated axon) by an incident radio-frequency electromagnetic field. The axon is assumed to be embedded in bulk nervous tissue below a planar interface between the tissue and air, with the irradiating field a plane wave normally incident from the air. Heat is removed by blood flow in the tissue. Numerical calculations for incident fields of power density 10mW⧸cm2 and frequencies in the range 108–1010 Hz show that the oscillating potential difference produced across the cellular membrane (single bilayer) of an unmyelinated axon is less than 5 μV, while that produced across the nodal membrane of a medullated axon may be 2–6 times greater, and that produced across the myelin of a medullated axon about 100 times greater. In the steady state, the temperature differences within the components of the medullated axon are found to be less than 10-6°C and the temperature gradients less than 0.1°C⧸cm; these are shown to be negligible.
Optimal selection of flasks for the indirect method of manometry

Abstract The selection, on the basis of flask volume and fluid volume, of the members of a flask pair for the indirect method of manometry is very important. A poor choice yields erratic results even with flawless experimental technique. In order to determine optimal combinations, formulae of the indirect method were analyzed, and an expression for the statistical variance associated with different combinations of flask and fluid volumes was derived. Graphs and a table were constructed and can be used to select suitable combinations. As a general rule, in order to obtain the minimum variance, flasks of equal volumes should be selected and used with the maximum practical difference in fluid volumes. It was also found that the choice of flask and fluid volumes does not depend on γ; an optimal combination has a minimum variance for all values of γ.
The contribution of a city to atmospheric turbidity and the turbidity background

Abstract Turbidity measurements made with Volz sunphotometers indicate that a small, lightly industrialized city can contribute 1 3 to 2 5 of the total turbidity measured and that a background turbidity does exist.
The Survival Advantage of Patients with Cystic Fibrosis Diagnosed Through Neonatal Screening: Evidence from the United States Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Registry Data

Objective To determine the impact of age and condition at the time of diagnosis on survival of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Study design By mode of diagnosis, 27,692 patients documented in the 1986–2000 CF Foundation Registry were segregated into meconium ileus (MI), prenatal or neonatal screening (SCREEN), positive family history only (FH), and symptoms other than MI (SYMPTOM). Patients in the MI, SCREEN, and SYMPTOM groups were further categorized by initial presenting symptoms into combined respiratory symptoms and malnutrition (RESP + NUTR), RESP, NUTR, other less common symptoms (OTHER), and OTHER + RESP/NUTR. Results Fifty-five percent of patients in the SCREEN group and 59% of patients in the MI group were diagnosed within age 1 month, as contrasted with 5% in patients in the SYMPTOM group ( P P Conclusions Early diagnosis through screening is associated with better survival compared with delayed diagnosis through non-MI symptoms beyond the age of 1 month.
The impact of developing a comprehensive hernia center on the referral patterns and complexity of hernia care

Complex hernia repairs represent a formidable surgical challenge. Several comprehensive hernia centers, including ours, with advanced expertise have recently emerged across the country. However, the effects of tertiary specialization remain largely unclear. We aimed to evaluate the impact of developing a comprehensive hernia center on the referral patterns and costs of patients with complex hernias. A prospectively maintained database was used to identify all patients undergoing open ventral hernia repair (VHR) between 2006 and 2013 at the Case Comprehensive Hernia Center. Patients were separated into two groups by zip code: those traveling either 100 miles. Demographics, operative characteristics, length of stay and costs data were analyzed. Of all patients who underwent open VHR during the study period, 287 met the inclusion criteria. Hernia length, width and area were all significantly larger for patients traveling >100 miles (P 100 miles compared to those traveling 100 miles incurred significantly higher fixed direct and variable direct costs compared to those who traveled 100 miles for ventral hernia repair have significantly larger and more complex hernias. The implications for improved patient outcomes and potential reimbursement issues for providing this care should be carefully evaluated.
Restrictions of the Orbulinid Datum: ABSTRACT

Faunal evidence and potassium/argon dates suggest the approximate correlation of the Saucesian Stage of California with the Burdigalian Stage of Europe. The Orbulinid datum marks the approximate base of the Burdigalian Stage in deposits of deep-water origin within tropical and warm temperate areas. Orbulinids appear well above the base of the Burdigalian and Saucesian in temperate areas. Thus, it is suggested that it required from one to about two stages for orbulinids to adapt to the temperate zone after their initial appearance in the tropics. End_of_Article - Last_Page 1079------------
Numerical simulation of a three-dimensional turbulent boundary layer

The effects of transverse strain on an initially two-dimensional turbulent boundary layer are studied in a direct numerical simulation of a planar channel flow with impulsively started transverse pressure gradient. Consistent with experiments in three-dimensional boundary layers, the simulation shows a drop in the Reynolds shear stress with increasing transverse strain. Also, the directions of the Reynolds shear stress vector and the mean velocity gradient vector were found to differ. In addition, the simulation shows a drop in the turbulent kinetic energy. The terms in the budget of the Reynolds stress were computed. In general, the individual terms do not show a significant change. However, an increase in dissipation rate rather than reduction in total production appears to be responsible for the drop in turbulent kinetic energy.
Preparation of fine particle rare earth orthoferrites

A technique is described for the preparation of fine particle rare earth orthoferrites in a wide range of compositions. These compositions include those containing a single rare earth, multiple rare earths, single and multiple rare earths with excess iron or excess rare earth, and these same combinations with partial substitution of iron with cobalt. The technique is relatively simple and involves a precipitation and decomposition of the precipitate in a muffle furnace.
Long-term single procedure efficacy of catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation

Two important limitations of the data regarding the outcomes of catheter ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF) are the short-term follow-up used in most published studies and the lack of single-procedure outcomes. The objective was to report the long-term single-procedure outcomes at our center. The patient population was comprised of 200 consecutive patients who underwent ablation (133 men; age 56 ± 11 years). Atrial fibrillation was paroxysmal in 92 (46%). Success was defined as absence of symptomatic AF, off antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) after a single procedure. After a follow-up of 26 ± 11 months, the single-procedure long-term success rate was 28% with an additional 7% of patients demonstrating improvement. After including repeat procedures in 64 patients, the overall long-term success rate was 41% with 11% demonstrating improvement. Further subgroup analysis of 48 paroxysmal AF patients considered to be optimal candidates for the procedure, revealed a long-term success rate of 69% with an additional 4% demonstrating improvement. A major complication occurred in 7.9% of patients. The results reveal that the long-term single-procedure success rate of catheter ablation of AF in a cohort of patients with predominantly non-paroxysmal AF is less than 40%. The inclusion of redo procedures resulted in an improvement in outcomes. A much higher success rate of 69% was achieved in patients with paroxysmal AF considered to be optimal candidates for this procedure. These results make it clear that further advances in the technique of catheter ablation of AF are needed to improve the safety and efficacy of this procedure. In order to be able to compare outcomes of various techniques in differing patient populations, we urge investigators to report long-term single procedure outcomes.
Consensus Scoring: A Method for Obtaining Improved Hit Rates from Docking Databases of Three-Dimensional Structures into Proteins

We present the results of an extensive computational study in which we show that combining scoring functions in an intersection-based consensus approach results in an enhancement in the ability to discriminate between active and inactive enzyme inhibitors. This is illustrated in the context of docking collections of three-dimensional structures into three different enzymes of pharmaceutical interest: p38 MAP kinase, inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase, and HIV protease. An analysis of two different docking methods and thirteen scoring functions provides insights into which functions perform well, both singly and in combination. Our data shows that consensus scoring further provides a dramatic reduction in the number of false positives identified by individual scoring functions, thus leading to a significant enhancement in hit-rates.
A forecasting model of tourist arrivals from major markets to Thailand.

Since international tourism is a rapidly growing phenomenon worldwide, the tourism industry has become a powerful engine for economic development and a major foreign exchange generator, especially in the East Asia and Pacific Region. With such growth and increased competition, it is vitally important to forecast tourism demand in the region and understand the factors affecting demand. Considering the national importance of tourism, Thailand was chosen as the destination country with nine major markets as the countries of origin. A model was developed for each country to forecast tourism demand from that market. Multiple regression analysis was applied over time series data. The empirical results suggest that independent variables, such as income level in the country of origin, prices of tourism goods in the destination country, currency exchange rate between the origin and destination country, and rooms supply in destination, do affect tourism demand. Qualitative factors, represented by dummy variables, namely special promotional program and political unrest, show slight impact on demand. The study reveals that there are differences in the relative impacts of variables among the tourist-generating countries. Thus, country-specific forecasting models and strategies must be formulated to reflect the uniqueness of each country of origin
Laser beam quality versus aperture size in a cw argon-ion laser

The measured beam quality of a typical argon-ion laser that uses a stable resonator is found to be slightly greater than unity for small intracavity aperture sizes, approaching M2 ≈ 1 as the mode-control aperture diameter is increased. Above a critical aperture size, the beam quality suddenly deteriorates, however, rising toward M2 ≈ 2 for larger apertures, although it is difficult to detect the onset of this deterioration from observations of either the laser output power or the output beam profile. Computer simulations confirm that the sudden rise in the M2 factor is due to the onset of a higher-order donut mode that oscillates simultaneously with the fundamental TEM00 mode. This general behavior is characteristic of other types of stable-cavity gas laser as well.
The Coulomb force and the various thermodynamic phases of simple metals

With just two-body Coulomb interactions between electrons being taken into account, the phase diagram of a simple metal includes the following phases at least: the ordinary paramagnetic Fermi liquid, itinerant ferromagnetism, a charge-density wave phase and an antiferromagnetic phase (either of which can be insulating), and — surprisingly — a superconducting phase. The present work surveys the physics of the Coulomb interactions in metals, and the diverse roles played by the zero-range Hubbard interaction U0 and the long-range Coulomb interactions denoted ΔV (q). Screening of the latter by the currents in the metal is treated in some detail. This work is intended as an introduction into an important area of solid-state physics. A number of novel ideas are proposed, but are clearly identified as such. For example: although V (q) ≡ U0 + ∆V (q) is required to be positive at all q, υ(q) ≡ (1/2) U0 + ∆V (q) is not. We show that if υ (q) < 0 in a given phase, that phase is unstable (regardless of band structure, etc.). We also find that the Coulomb repulsion between electrons in a given band is somewhat stronger than that between holes. A companion paper based on the concepts presented here elaborates the theory of high-temperature superconductivity in layered metals.
INTERLANGUAGE PHONETICS AND PHONOLOGY

This thematic issue explores various aspects of interlanguage phonetics and phonology and their relationship to general linguistic theory. Research in interlanguage syntax and recently in discourse and pragmatics has been quite prolific; however, research in interlanguage phonetics and phonology has produced far fewer studies. Of the nearly 200 articles published in Studies in Second Language Acquisition ( SSLA ) during the last 10 years, only about a dozen focus on phonetics and phonology. This thematic issue is intended to fill some of this gap.
Ten commercial antibodies for alpha-1-adrenergic receptor subtypes are nonspecific

Commercial antibodies are used widely to quantify and localize the α1-adrenergic receptor (AR) subtypes, α1A, α1B, and α1D. We tested ten antibodies, from abcam and Santa Cruz, using western blot with heart and brain tissue from wild-type (WT) mice and mice with systemic knockout (KO) of one or all three subtypes. We found that none of the antibodies detected a band in WT that was absent in the appropriate KO or in the KO that was null for all α1-ARs (ABDKO). We conclude that the antibodies we tested are not specific for α1-ARs. These results raise caution with prior studies using these reagents. For now, competition radioligand binding is the only reliable approach to quantify the α1-AR subtype proteins. Receptor protein localization remains a challenge.
Exciton migration and charge transfer in chemically linked P3HT─TiO2nanorod composite

Exciton migration and charge transfer in the chemically linked P3HT–TiO2 nanorod composite (P3HT–Si–nr–TiO2) solution were investigated in comparison with pristine P3HT and physically mixed P3HT/LA–nr–TiO2 solutions. The chemically linked P3HT–Si–nr–TiO2 was made by covalently linking in situ polymerized P3HT onto nr–TiO2 using triethoxy-2-thienylsilane as a linker to replace the initial linoleic acid (LA) capping agent on nr–TiO2. The physically mixed P3HT/LA–nr–TiO2 was prepared by adding ex situ synthesized P3HT into the LA–capped nr–TiO2 solution. In the chemically linked sample, charge transfer from P3HT to TiO2 nanorods was found to occur evidenced by photoluminescence (PL) quenching and ultrafast decay dynamics with a timescale of 0.75 ps. However, both the emission spectra and femtosecond dynamics in physically mixed sample overlapped very well with those from pristine P3HT solution, indicating no PL quenching or charge transfer from P3HT to nr–TiO2. In addition, blue shift in absorbance and PL spectra, larger Stokes shift, and structureless PL spectra found in the chemically linked sample indicated that P3HT formed a more coil-like conformation with more twisted torsion disorders than those in pristine P3HT and physically mixed samples. This is consistent with the femtosecond measurement result that torsional relaxation occurred with a longer decay time and higher amplitude. Moreover, intersystem crossings (ISC) from singlet state (S1) to triplet state (T1) in P3HT of the three samples were all found to occur in a comparable timescale of ∼1 ns and showed no dependence on conformational disorders such as torsional defects.
Characterization of sediment bacteria involved in selenium reduction

Abstract Bacterial reduction of selenium (Se) oxyanions (Se[VI] and Se[IV]) to elemental Se (Se[0]) is one of the major biogeochemical processes removing Se from agricultural drainage water and depositing Se in the sediment. This study was conducted to characterize Se-reducing bacterial populations in Lost Hills evaporation pond sediment and to observe their response to Se(VI) and organic C amendments. Se(VI) was removed from the dissolved phase in the sediment slurries amended with organic C with a decrease in redox potential ( E h ). Se(VI) concentrations decreased from 2137 to 79 μg L −1 after 9 days of incubation in a 5% soil slurry. Upon our screening process, 9 Se(VI)- and 14 Se(IV)-reducing bacteria were isolated from sediment slurries and identified by amplification and sequencing of 16S rDNA. Bacillus strains appeared to be dominant in the bacterial assemblages active in Se(VI) and Se(IV) reduction in the sediment. Halomonas pacifica and Staphylococcus warneri were also identified as Se(IV)-reducers. Indigenous bacteria have a significant role in the biogeochemical cycling of Se and may be stimulated by addition of a suitable organic source for Se reduction. The bacterial strains isolated from salt-affected and Se-contaminated Lost Hills evaporation pond sediment may have potential application in removing Se from high salt drainage water.
Giving Voice to Invisible Women: “FIRE” as Model of a Successful Women's Community Radio in Africa

This study focused on the Feminist International Radio Endeavour (FIRE), which began as a grassroots' women community radio in 1991. Afrocentricity, standpoint theory, and womanism were used with rhetorical criticism to examine FIRE's mission statement, the rhetorical artifact, to determine FIRE's role in empowering disenfranchised women in the developing countries. In addition, this study examined how FIRE can be modeled to set up women community radio in Africa. The findings of this study indicated that radio constitutes the obvious place to start in terms of building basic inclusion in community, national, and global information flows. However, the question remains whether or not women's voices and concerns are well represented in the radio programs. FIRE proved to be a perfect representative of women struggle for liberation and empowerment, especially in the African countries, given that FIRE is based in a developing country.
Early developmental stress and later behavior.

The effects of behavioral stress on mice during pregnancy on the behavior of offspring are mimicked by epinephrine injection of mice during pregnancy; hydrocortisone and norepinephrine injection also produce behaviroal changes in the offspring. Similar results were obtained in chicks hatched from injected eggs.
Family Clothing Consumption: Comparison of Two Methods for Collecting Data

The objective of this study was to determine the differences between two methods of collecting clothing consumption data: diary and recall. A sample in which there was a high proportion of low- and middle-income families was drawn from school census data in Ithaca, New York. The study was limited to families with elementary school children. Forty-three families kept diaries of all clothing purchases for a period of one month. Another 50 families were visited at the end of the same month and asked to recall purchases made over the preceding month. By collecting clothing consumption data exclusive of other consumer expenditures, differ ences between the recall and diary methods of data collection, found in earlier research, have been minimized. In this study there were no differences between either the demographic characteristics of the diary or recall samples, or in quantity and expenditure data collected. Costs for time and transportation for the researchers were higher with the diary than the recall method since two visits to each household were required. This study indicates that the recall method can successfully be used to gather family clothing consumption data.
A transgene target for positional regulators marks early rostrocaudal specification of myogenic lineages

Abstract In transgenic mice, muscle-specific regulatory elements from the myosin light chain (MLC) 13 locus drive graded expression of a linked CAT reporter gene in selected fast muscles along the anteroposterior axis of the adult animal. The gradient of MLC-CAT transcripts is established early in development, during the generation of somites from the paraxial mesoderm and the activation of myogenic factor gene expression, and is not reflected in the expression of the endogenous MLC1 gene. At later embryonic stages, the gradient of MLC-CAT transcripts persists in intercostal and intervertebral muscles, but is not maintained in other axial muscles. Profiles of CAT transgene activity reveal that the gradient is generated during the maturation of increasingly caudal somites, opposite to the direction of somite development, and is retained in dissociated somite cultures. We propose that coexpression of myogenic factors is necessary but not sufficient to regulate expression of the MLC-CAT transgene, which is responsive to additional positional cues in the embryo.
Advanced CD-AFM probe tip shape characterization for metrology accuracy and throughput

As semiconductor and data storage industries apply Critical Dimension Atomic Force Microscopy (CD-AFM) for their metrology needs in research and production, (1) measurement accuracy/repeatability and (2) measurement throughput are the major criteria for acceptance. However, these two requirements are usually contradictory for a metrology instrument. For example, a scatterometer can take a snapshot of a wafer in seconds, but such indirect CD measurements are biased by the availability of library models and uncertainty of computer simulations. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) provides an atomic-scale resolution that is traceable back to the lattice structure of atoms, yet the cross-section data is highly localized and can take days or weeks to acquire. In the case of CD-AFM, since the scanning probe physically interacts with the structure of interest at a close proximity, the determination of sample morphology comes from direct measurements. Therefore, the measurement uncertainty can be attributed to: (1) AFM probe tip shapes and (2) system control and scan algorithms. For the former, past efforts have been mainly focused on improving metrology accuracy and repeatability by reducing the dimensional uncertainty of a tip shape. This approach includes characterizing the probe tip shape periodically. Inevitably, such tip shape calibration procedure takes time (approximately 5 min) and burdens production throughput. In this paper, we introduce several new methods for AFM probe tip shape characterization with different designs of tip shape characterizers. The new tip shape characterizers were designed to address the limitation of current structures. First, a single silicon overhang structure with wear-resistant coatings was used as the characterizer for both tip width and tip shape profile. Tip-to-tip scan repeatability data (0.7 nm 3 Sigma) and measurement statistics suggest an improvement over present state-of-the-art practice. Tip shape profiles of several high aspect ratio (20:1 to 25:1), low lateral stiffness probes were successfully characterized with this method. Furthermore, the use of single characterizer provides an opportunity to shorten tool calibration time, and consequently, increase measurement throughput. In addition, a carbon nanotube characterizer prototype is proposed for CD-AFM. When scanning probe geometry shrinks with semiconductor technology nodes, it has become a challenge to characterize a probe with a few tens of nanometer of width with a micrometer-size characterizer. Using a comparable or smaller size of characterizer for a small (20 to 50 nm) AFM probe not only reduces the dimensional uncertainty, but also expands the 2-D profiling capability of current tip shape characterization. We will discuss limitations of current tip shape profiling techniques, proof-of-concept experiments for new characterizers, implementation of new tip shape characterization methods, and approaches to increasing measurement throughput.
Offline library adaptation using automatically generated heuristics

Automatic tuning has emerged as a solution to provide high-performance libraries for fast changing, increasingly complex computer architectures. We distinguish offline adaptation (e.g., in ATLAS) that is performed during installation without the full problem description from online adaptation (e.g., in FFTW) that is performed at runtime. Offline adaptive libraries are simpler to use, but, unfortunately, writing the adaptation heuristics that power them is a daunting task. The overhead of online adaptive libraries, on the other hand, makes them unsuitable for a number of applications. In this paper, we propose to automatically generate heuristics in the form of decision trees using a statistical classifier, effectively converting an online adaptive library into an offline one. As testbed we use Spiral-generated adaptive transform libraries for current multicores with vector extensions. We show that replacing the online search with generated decision trees maintains a performance competitive with vendor libraries while allowing for a simpler interface and reduced computation overhead.