cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Preferential uptake of restriction fragments from a gonococcal cryptic plasmid by competent Neisseria gonorrhoeae

SUMMARY: Factors involved in the specificity of DNA uptake by competent Neisseria gonorrhoeae were examined. Host-controlled modification did not affect uptake. Certain restriction fragments of the 4.2 kb gonococcal cryptic plasmid pFA1 and of the replicative form of the bacteriophage M13 were taken up in preference to others, independent of differences in fragment size. A 600 bp fragment from the 4.2 kb plasmid was cloned into pLES2, a gonococcal-Escherichia coli shuttle vector; the 600 bp fragment was taken up into a DNAase-I-resistant state in preference to the vector fragment. A second 370 bp fragment in pFA1 was also taken up preferentially. The 600 bp and 370 bp fragments share a 10 bp sequence, which is found in pFA1 only on fragments that were taken up readily. However, a fragment from M13 which was efficiently taken up did not contain this 10 bp sequence. In addition, this sequence was not sufficient to direct preferential DNA uptake by gonococci, since a recombinant plasmid containing this 10 bp sequence was not taken up appreciably better than the vector plasmid or another recombinant plasmid containing an unrelated 10 bp sequence. Sequence comparisons of the three restriction fragments which were preferentially taken up did not yield any consensus sequences greater than 7 bp. Although it is likely that efficient uptake of DNA by gonococci is determined by DNA structure, a single short sequence could not be found that accounted for specific uptake.
Highlights of Mediation at Work: Studies of the National REDRESS® Evaluation Project

This research report reviews some of the highlights of the ongoing longitudinal evaluation of the REDRESS® program at the United States Postal Service, the world's largest employment dispute resolution program. These results represent the first systematic data on how a mediation program can function in the workplace setting. This synopsis of the REDRESS® evaluation compares results between the outside neutral and inside neutral conflict resolution systems, explores the role of representation in mediation, and examines the impact of mediation on formal EEO discrimination complaint filings.
Efficient Bounded-Influence Regression Estimation

Abstract The least squares estimator for β in the classical linear regression model is strongly efficient under certain conditions. However, in the presence of heavy-tailed errors and/or anomalous data, the least squares efficiency can be markedly reduced. In this article we propose an estimator that limits the influence of any small subset of the data and show that it satisfies a first-order condition for strong efficiency subject to the constraint. We then show that the estimator is asymptotically normal. The article concludes with an outline of an algorithm for computing a bounded-influence regression estimator and with an example comparing least squares, robust regression as developed by Huber, and the estimator proposed in this article.
The calorigenic response of cold-acclimated white rats to infused noradrenaline.

The increase in oxygen consumption during continuous intravenous injection of various doses of L-noradrenaline was measured in anesthetized rats fully acclimated to 6 °C. The metabolic response was found to be linearly related to the logarithm of the amount of noradrenaline infused per minute. The calorigenic response to infusion of noradrenaline at a level of 1 μg per minute was then measured in rats undergoing acclimation to cold. The calorigenic response was found to increase with time of exposure to the cold environment, thus paralleling previous observations in the time course of gain in cold resistance, increase in food consumption, and loss of dependence on shivering during acclimation of white rats to cold. Also, the same maximal increase in oxygen consumption was obtained on infusion of noradrenaline into functionally eviscerated and sham-operated cold-acclimated rats, thus indicating that the liver and other abdominal viscera (kidneys excluded) are not involved in the calorigenic response to nor...
Absolute half-cell entropy.

The absolute half-cell entropy is defined here as the entropy of the cell process $M\ensuremath{\rightarrow}{M}^{+}(\mathrm{solution})+{e}^{\ensuremath{-}}(\mathrm{gas})$. A method of determining absolute half-cell entropies is described. The relationship is discussed for single-ion entropies in solution. $\ensuremath{\Delta}{S}^{0}$ for the hydrogen electrode is provisionally recommended to be -66.6\ifmmode\pm\else\textpm\fi{}1.4 J/K mole at 298 K, based on a previously recommended value for the absolute entropy of ${\mathrm{H}}^{+}$ in water. More accurate measurements should be attempted.
The elastic catenary

Abstract A heavy, elastic cable is supported at both ends. The problem is governed by the distance between the supports and the parameter K which represents the relative importance of density and length to flexural rigidity. The heavy elastica equations are solved both numerically and by analytic approximations. Geometric dimensions, maximum force and maximum moment are found to be heavily dependent on K .
Endosulfan wet deposition in Southern Florida (USA)

The atmosphere is an important transport route for semi-volatile pesticides like endosulfan. Deposition, which depends on physical-chemical properties, use patterns, and climatic conditions, can occur at local, regional, and global scales. Adverse human and ecological impact may result. We measured endosulfan wet deposition in precipitation over a 4-year period within an area of high agricultural use in Southern Florida (USA) and in nearby Biscayne and Everglades National Parks. Endosulfan's two isomers and degradate, endosulfan sulfate, were detected at high frequency with the order of detection and concentration being β-endosulfan>α-endosulfan>endosulfan sulfate. Within the agricultural area, detection frequency (55 to 98%) mean concentrations (5 to 87 ng L(-1)) and total daily deposition (200 ng m(-2) day(-1)) exceeded values at other sites by 5 to 30-fold. Strong seasonal trends were also observed with values at all monitored sites significantly higher during peak endosulfan use periods when vegetable crops were produced. Relatively high deposition in the crop production area and observations that concentrations exceeded aquatic life toxicity thresholds at all sites indicated that endosulfan volatilization and wet deposition are of ecotoxicological concern to the region. This study emphasizes the need to include localized volatilization and deposition of endosulfan and other semi-volatile pesticides in risk assessments in Southern Florida and other areas with similar climatic and crop production profiles.
Hypolipidemic effect of type Ia antiarrhythmic agents in postinfarction patients.

BACKGROUND Elevated levels of cholesterol and apoprotein B (apo B), the essential carrier protein for low density lipoprotein, are major lipid risk factors for premature coronary disease. Antiarrhythmic agents are frequently prescribed to patients with coronary heart disease and associated cardiac arrhythmias. As part of another study, we retrospectively investigated the effect of antiarrhythmic agents on blood lipids. METHODS AND RESULTS The study population consisted of 1,567 postinfarction patients on whom we prospectively collected serial blood samples for lipid and apoprotein determinations and recorded the concomitant medications the patients were receiving at three follow-up time periods. The lipids, analyzed at a central core laboratory, included total cholesterol, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL C), and apoproteins A-I (apo A-I), A-II (apo A-II), and apo B. The difference in the group mean lipid values for patients receiving and not receiving type Ia antiarrhythmic agents (quinidine, procainamide, and disopyramide) was evaluated by the two-sample t test, and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to adjust for relevant covariates. Patients using type Ia antiarrhythmic agents at the 30-month postinfarction contact (n = 76) had 8.6% lower cholesterol (p less than 0.003), 22.3% lower triglycerides (p less than 0.0002), 6.2% lower apo A-I (p = 0.02), 10.1% lower apo A-II (p less than 0.001), and 12.7% lower apo B (p less than 0.0001) levels than patients not on these medications (n = 1,491). These lower lipid levels were found after adjustment for age, sex, diabetes, smoking status, concomitant medications, and a variety of clinical factors relating to the severity of the coronary disease process. The HDL C levels were similar in those receiving and not receiving type Ia agents. CONCLUSIONS Patients on type Ia antiarrhythmic agents had significantly and meaningfully lower cholesterol, triglyceride, apo A-II, and apo B levels than patients not receiving these agents. The mechanism of this hypolipidemic effect is undefined, but the mechanism may be related to an alteration by these agents of ionic membrane currents at the hepatocyte level.
Inflammation and airway reactivity in asthma

The increased airway reactivity characteristic of asthma may be due to contraction of airway smooth muscle, mucus hypersecretion, edema and thickening of airway walls, and the presence of serum proteins and inflammatory cells and their products in the airways. Increased airway reactivity in asthma correlates with airway epithelial damage and is clearly related to airway inflammation, a process that most likely involves a complex interaction among mast cells, lymphocytes, eosinophils, and macrophages. Thus, although symptomatic treatment of airway narrowing is best accomplished with bronchial smooth muscle relaxants, treatment of the basic pathophysiologic defect should attempt to reduce airway inflammation. Bronchodilators (inhaled beta-agonists and, occasionally, theophylline), which do not decrease airway reactivity, are often used to treat the symptoms of patients with mild or episodic asthma; inhaled corticosteroids, which do decrease airway inflammation and reactivity, are used to treat patients with more severe symptoms. Methotrexate and cromolyn sodium may also be used, although their role in treating the underlying pathophysiology remains controversial. Identification of new agents that are as effective as corticosteroids but that do not produce their side effects would represent a major therapeutic advance for patients with asthma.
Promotional Competition Between Supermarket Chains

This article measures promotional competition between two major supermarket chains in the United States. The approach does not rely upon quantity sales data and can be applied to any industry that features advertised sales. The results indicate that retailers do compete using promotions. A supermarket promotion in one week significantly increases the probability of a promotion for the same product at rival stores in the following week. Additionally, competitors seek to match or exceed the price cuts of their rivals when responding to promotions. Oligopolistic competition plays a significant role in determining the timing of sales and retail price variation.
SU‐DD‐A3‐04: On‐Line Re‐Optimization of Prostate IMRT Plans for Image Guided Adaptive Radiation Therapy

Purpose: This study proposes a novel on‐line adaptive planning technique for the prostate treatment by directly re‐optimizing the IMRT plan based on both the “anatomy‐of‐the‐day” and the original plan information. Method & Materials: Using a commercial treatment planning system, an initial IMRT plan for prostate cancertreatment was optimized using seven coplanar 15‐MV beams based on the structures of interest (SOIs) delineated in the planning CT. Then, the optimized plan with both intensity fluence maps and dose distributions was exported to an in‐house adaptive planning platform. To correct for target variations, a set of on‐board cone‐beam CT(CBCT)images were acquired prior to treatment and the daily SOIs (“anatomy‐of‐the‐day”) were identified. The original planning SOIs and daily SOIs were registered using a thin‐plate‐spline based deformable registration algorithm. The optimal dose distribution was then deformed to match the “anatomy‐of‐the‐day” and served as the “prescription dose distribution” for the re‐optimization process. Linear programming algorithm was used for re‐optimization and could reach a solution in seconds. The algorithm also used the original IMRT plan information as the initial solution. Both hard and soft constraints were used to differentiate the priorities of meeting the prescription dose distribution. A proof‐of‐concept case using an IMRT prostate plan was presented. The dose‐volume histograms from the original, the uncorrected and re‐optimized plans were compared. Results: The proposed re‐optimization technique reached solutions within 1minute on a desktop PC. The D95(min/max) doses to the GTV were 99.3%(90.0%/104.1%), 83%(57.6%/104.1%) and 98.3%(90.0%/103.8%), for the original, uncorrected and re‐optimized plans, respectively. The median doses to the rectum and bladder were comparable for the original and re‐optimized plans (41.0% vs. 45.0%, and 14.0% vs. 16.4%, respectively). Conclusion: It is technically feasible to perform on‐line re‐optimization based on the “anatomy‐of‐the‐day” and to achieve results similar to the original dose distribution.
Genotypic differences in the heat-shock response and thermotolerance in four potato cultivars

Abstract We have studied the relationship between thermotolerance and heat-shock protein (HSP) expression in potato ( Solanum tuberosum L.), analyzing two reported heat sensitive cultivars (‘Russet Burbank’ and ‘Atlantic’) and two reported heat tolerant cultivars (‘Norchip’ and ‘Desiree’) under prolonged heat-stress conditions. A standard and quantitative assay for heat tolerance, based on electrolyte leakage, revealed that one of the “heat tolerant” cultivars, ‘Desiree’, is not nearly as heat tolerant as the other heat tolerant cultivar, ‘Norchip’. In addition, protein labeling and immunodetection analyses revealed that there were genotypic differences in HSP expression in potato cultivars; at 40 °C, ‘Norchip’, the most heat tolerant cultivar, synthesized small (sm) HSPs for a longer time period, than the other three cultivars. The levels of an 18 kDa smHSP increased up to 24 h in ‘Norchip’ and ‘Desiree’, whereas the levels started to decrease after 4 h in ‘Russet Burbank’ and 12 h in ‘Atlantic’. At 35 °C, a more moderate heat stress, we observed an unusual pattern of accumulation of the 18 kDa smHSP; the level initially increased, then decreased at 12–18 h, and, upon prolonged heat stress up to 40 h, increased again at 18–24 h. The possible mechanism behind this dynamic pattern is discussed. This is the first extensive study on heat-shock protein expression in potatoes using commercially important potato cultivars.
An investigation of the effectiveness of concept mapping as an instructional tool

The study of concept mapping as a research topic evolved from work conducted at Cornell University under the auspices of Novak (Novak and Gowin, 1984). Most recently reported is a 12-year longitudinal study of science concept learning in which Novak and his colleagues developed concept maps as a tool to represent knowledge structures (Novak and Musonda, 1991). Predicated on Ausubel’s assimilation theory of cognitive learning, these maps depicted the hierarchy and relationships among concepts. Data gathered from clinical interviews given before and after instruction were transformed from their raw, propositional form to concept maps. These “before and after” maps, which represented specific pre- and postinstruction concept meanings held by students, were then analyzed for changes in students’ cognitive structure. In summarizing the results of this study, Novak and Musonda reported that experimental students showed “many more valid conceptions and many fewer invalid conceptions” (p. 148) when compared to a similar sample of students who received no formal instruction in basic science concepts. In the research done since Novak developed this tool, concept mapping has become a viable educational medium. For example, there is evidence that concept maps can help teachers become more effective (Beyerbach and Smith, 1990; Hoz et al., 1990), and can serve as a heuristic for curriculum development (Starr and Krajcik, 1990). Perhaps most importantly, concept maps have been reported to be a potent instructional tool for promoting what Ausubel has described as meaningful learning. Meaningful learning refers to anchoring new ideas or concepts with previously acquired knowledge in a nonarbitrary way (Novak, 1977). It is this latter role of concept maps that is the focus of this study.
Relationships between spruce budworm damage and site factors in spruce-fir-dominated ecosystems of Western Upper Michigan

Hix, D.M., Barnes, B.V., Lynch, A.M. and Witter, J.A., 1987. Relationships between spruce budworm damage and site factors in spruce-fir-dominated ecosystems of western Upper Michigan. For. Ecol. Manage., 21:129-140 Damage by the spruce budworm, Choristoneura fumiferana {Clemens), on balsam fir, Abies balsamea (L.) Mill., in local ecosystems (site units) of the Ottawa National Forest {western Upper Peninsula of Michigan, U.S.A.) was studied in relation to site factors. A multi-factor ecological approach was used to distinguish 25 spruce-fir-dominated ecosystems on a variety of different sites, ranging from dry-mesic outwash plains to river floodplains and swamps. Spruce budworm damage on balsam fir appears to be more directly related to site factors (specifically soil type and drainage class) than to stand parameters such as relative dominance or living-plus-dead basal area. Damage on balsam fir was greatest on wetland ecosystems with organic soils and on dryland ecosystems with impeded drainage. The heavy damage on these soils is probably a consequence of shallow rooting habit which predisposes the physiologically mature balsam fir to drought injury, lessened vigor, and a lessened ability to withstand defoliation. Black spruce, Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P., also exhibited heavy damage on sites where it is not well adapted, i.e. somewhat excessively drained dryland ecosystems. An understanding of the site factors and the ecosystem classification provide the basis for predicting where the greatest damage can be expected.
Post-translational modification of proteins

Abstract Many proteins, especially those produced by eukaryotic cells, undergo extensive, essentially irreversible, modifications after their synthesis. This review focuses on three classes of such reactions: proteolytic cleavages, formation of S-S cystine bonds, and formation of asparagine-linked carbohydrate chains. Emphasis is placed on the mechanism of these reactions, and on the importance of these modifications for the proper structure, function and stability of the affected proteins. Using recombinant DNA techniques, it is now possible to synthesize the polypeptide portion of many proteins, such as mammalian peptide hormones and enzymes, in bacterial and yeast cells. These host cells, however, may be unable to carry out essential post-translational modifications. Ways in which the properly modified form of these ‘engineered’ proteins can be produced are considered.
Does grading the severity of gastroparesis based on scintigraphic gastric emptying predict the treatment outcome of patients with gastroparesis

Objectives The objectives of this study were as follows: (1) Whether gastric emptying is different between gastroparesis (GP) patients responding or not responding to standard medical therapy; (2) Identifying if mild, moderate, and severe degrees of gastroparesis based on the scintigraphic gastric emptying test (GET) can predict treatment responses for GP of diabetic (DM) and idiopathic (ID) origin.
An outcomes analysis of five prenatal screening strategies for trisomy 21 in women younger than 35 years

Abstract Objective This study was undertaken to examine the cost-effectiveness and procedural-related losses associated with 5 prenatal screening strategies for fetal aneuploidy in women under 35 years old. Study design Five prenatal screening strategies were compared in a decision analysis model: triple screen: maternal age and midtrimester serum alpha-fetoprotein, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and unconjugated estriol; quad screen: triple screen plus serum dimeric inhibin A; first-trimester screen: maternal age, serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein A and free β-hCG and fetal nuchal translucency at 10 to 14 weeks' gestation; integrated screen: first-trimester screen plus quad screen, but first-trimester results are withheld until the quad screen is completed when a composite result is provided; sequential screen: first-trimester screen plus quad screen, but the first-trimester screen results are provided immediately and prenatal diagnosis offered if positive; later prenatal diagnosis is available if the quad screen is positive. Model estimates were literature derived, and cost estimates also included local sources. The 5 strategies were compared for cost, the numbers of Down syndrome fetuses detected and live births averted, and the number of procedure-related euploid losses. Sensitivity analyses were performed for parameters with imprecise point estimates. Results In the baseline analysis, sequential screening was the least expensive strategy ($455 million). It detected the most Down syndrome fetuses (n = 1213), averted the most Down syndrome live births (n = 678), but led to the highest number of procedure-related euploid losses (n = 859). The integrated screen had the fewest euploid losses (n = 62) and averted the second most Down syndrome live births (n = 520). If fewer than 70% of women diagnosed with fetal Down syndrome elect to abort, the quad screen became the least expensive strategy. Conclusion Although sequential screening was the most cost-effective prenatal screening strategy for fetal trisomy 21, it had the highest procedure-related euploid loss rate. The patient's perspective on detection versus fetal safety may help define the optimal screening strategy.
The role of electrode microstructure on activation and concentration polarizations in solid oxide fuel cells

Abstract Activation and concentration polarization effects in anode-supported solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) were examined. The anode and the cathode consisted respectively of porous, composite, contiguous mixtures of Ni+yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) and Sr-doped LaMnO 3 (LSM)+YSZ. The composite electrode provides parallel paths for oxygen ions (through YSZ), electrons (through the electronic conductor; Ni for the anode and LSM for the cathode), and gaseous species (through the pores) and thereby substantially decreases the activation polarization. The composite electrode effectively spreads the charge transfer reaction from the electrolyte/electrode interface into the electrode. At low current densities where the activation polarization can be approximated as being ohmic, an effective charge transfer resistance, R ct eff , is defined in terms of various parameters, including the intrinsic charge transfer resistance, R ct , which is a characteristic of the electrocatalyst/electrolyte pair (e.g. LSM/YSZ), and the electrode thickness. It is shown that the R ct eff attains an asymptotic value at large electrode thicknesses. The limiting value of R ct eff can be either lower or higher than R ct depending upon the magnitudes of the ionic conductivity, σ i , of the composite electrode, the intrinsic charge transfer resistance, R ct , and the grain size of the electrode. For an R ct of 1.2 Ωcm 2 , σ i of 0.02 S/cm and an electrode grain size of 2 μm, the limiting value of R ct eff is 0.14 Ωcm 2 indicating almost an order of magnitude decrease in activation polarization. The experimental measurements on the cell resistance of anode-supported cells as a function of the cathode thickness are in accord with the theoretical model. The concentration polarization is analyzed by taking into account gas transport through porous electrodes. It is shown that the voltage, V , vs. current density, i , traces should be nonlinear and in anode-supported cells, the initial concave up curvature (d 2 V /d i 2 ≥0) has its origin in both activation and concentration polarizations. The experimental results are consistent with the theoretical model.
The Role of Sexual and Reproductive Rights in Social Work Practice

The understanding and promotion of sexual and reproductive rights are essential in the social work profession, not only to improve the health status of affected populations but to advocate effectively for social justice and to respond to globalized realities. This article highlights the relevance of sexual and reproductive rights in the philosophical foundation and practice of social work, emphasizes the impact of reproductive health and rights on women's lives, and proposes a social work agenda that will embrace and promote sexual and reproductive rights. It uses policy statements from the International Federation of Social Workers as well as a human rights framework focused on sexual and reproductive rights that stems from the global feminist movement.
Range of the six fundamental position angles of a planar four bar mechanism

Resume Les mecanismes plans a quatre barres representent une categorie importante de liaisons et sont frequemment le choix final de l'ingenieur en mecanique. En consequence, de nombreux chercheurs ont apporte leur contribution a la masse d'informations publiees a ce sujet. Le but de cette contribution est de decrire une methode permettant de determiner le domaine d'existence des deplacements angulaires de toutes les liaisons d'un mecanisme a quatre barres. La methode est basee sur la seule connaissance des longueurs des liaisons. Un programme interactif pour ordinateur est presente. Il permet de trouver les domaines d'existence des angles quand l'ensemble des longueurs est introduit par l'utilisateur. Des exemples de huit mecanisme specifiques sont egalement presentes.
Low-crosstalk code-division multiplexed interferometric array

The results obtained using code-division multiplexing with an array of eight sensors are reported. It is demonstrated crosstalk levels −60 dB can be achieved using this approach using return-to-zero pulse coding.
Life History of the Colorado Squawfish, Ptychocheilus lucius, and the Colorado Chub, Gila robusta, in the Green River in Dinosaur National Monument, 1964–1966

Abstract Investigations of the ecology and life history of the Colorado squawfish, Ptychocheilus lucius, and the Colorado chub, Gila robusta, in the Green River in Dinosaur National Monument, Colorado-Utah, were conducted from May 1964, to October 1966. A total of 1,469 squawfish and 2,393 chubs was collected with gill nets, seines, fry gear, and an electric shocker. The operation of Flaming Gorge Reservoir (46 miles above the Monument) has reduced the range of these two species in this area. Age and growth determinations were made from scales from 182 squawfish and 333 chubs. Both species grew slower in years after reservoir operation began (1963–1965) than before (1958–1962); this reduction in growth rate was related to the alteration of seasonal stream-temperature pattern caused by these operations. The bonytail form of the Colorado chub grew faster than the roundtail form. Length-frequency analyses of young squawfish and chubs described seasonal growth of the first three year-classes and provided evid...
Fine-Needle Aspirate Cytology Suggesting Hepatic Lipidosis in Four Cats with Infiltrative Hepatic Disease:

Four cats are reported in which cytology smears obtained by ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration of the liver were interpreted as indicative of hepatic lipidosis. However, histopathology of hepatic tissue samples obtained with Tru-Cut®-like needles or wedge biopsy revealed that the cats had inflammatory or neoplastic hepatic disease causing their clinical signs. Fine needle aspiration and cytology may not detect infiltrative lesions, particularly those that are nodular, multifocal, or localised around the portal regions. Fine needle aspirate cytology is a useful diagnostic procedure with many advantages, but care must be taken to avoid diagnosing hepatic lipidosis as the cause of illness when an infiltrative lesion is responsible.
Simulations of Flow Through Bileaflet Mechanical Heart Valves to Assess Platelet Damage

Prosthetic heart valves have been used for over 50 years to replace diseased native valves but still lead to severe complications such as hemolysis, platelet aggregation, and thromboembolic events. The most widely implanted design is the bileaflet mechanical heart valve (BMHV). Most modern BMHV designs have better flow hemodynamics and blood damage performance than their earlier-generation counterparts. However, blood element trauma and thromboembolic events still remain as major complications of current BMHV designs. These problems have been linked to blood element damage caused by non-physiological stresses. These stresses are caused by the complex flow fields that arise due to prosthetic heart valve design, particularly in the leaflet hinge region. In order to reduce the severity of these complications, the blood damage that occurs in flows through prosthetic heart valves must be well understood.Copyright © 2011 by ASME
Open Systems Interconnection

The need for standards allowing computer‐to‐computer communication, and examples of technical issues are discussed. The framework of the Open Systems Interconnection Reference Model, consisting of seven layers, each performing a distinct and defined function, is explained and illustrated. Sidebars feature: 1) public data networks and X.25, 2) OSI standards, and 3) the OSI layer functions. A glossary is included.
Laser-written binary OMOG photomasks for high-volume non-critical 193-nm photolithographic layers

Photomasks are key elements of photolithographic processes, implying that their degradation must be reliably monitored and strongly mitigated. Indeed, the photo-induced oxidation of Cr in Cr On Glass (COG) photomasks and the concomitant electrostatic-field migration present in high-volume production using 193-nm photolithographic scanners severely deteriorate the pattern transfer quality, therefore limiting the lifetime of these reticles. To moderate this effect, Opaque MoSi On Glass (OMOG) photomasks, significantly less prone to such degradation, are currently being massively used in leading-edge microfabrication flows. The type of mask fabrication process normally used involving ebeam writing is however not adapted for non-critical photolithographic layers that do not yet benefit from its inherent performances but still suffer from its high cost and its long processing time. It is therefore proposed in this work to combine the simplicity of laser writing and the resistance of MoSi to degradation by using laser-written binary OMOG photomasks for the non-critical layers (e.g. ion-implantation) of a 28-nm production flow. To evaluate one of this new reticle, its pattern transfer fidelity is compared to the one of a laser-written binary COG mask already qualified for production from a photolithographic quality perspective, both masks being treated using the same optical proximity correction (OPC) model. Dispersive and dissipative properties, critical dimension uniformity, pattern linearity and pattern proximity are directly measured on wafer level, subsequently revealing that both photomasks match in terms of OPC parameters. The utilized OPC model is moreover proven robust against the use of both types of masks, consequently making the conversion from COG to OMOG particularly simple. These experimental results therefore qualify the new mask fabrication type and pave the way for a major utilization in high-volume production.
Imaging and neurological manifestations of an unusual thymic carcinoma

Robert A. Koenigsberg*, David Greco, Joseph Yatzi, Beth Zigmund, Scott H. Faro, Naveed Gul, Gary J. Romano, Sidney Croul Department of Radiology, MCP Hahnemann University, Mail Stop 206, Broad and Vine Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA Department of Neurology, MCP Hahnemann University, Broad and Vine Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA Department of Neurosurgery, MCP Hahnemann University, Broad and Vine Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA Department of Pathology, MCP Hahnemann University, Broad and Vine Streets, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA
Quasifree Proton-Deuteron Scattering Corrections Near 210 MeV

The results of the impulse approximation formalism of Cromer are applied to proton-deuteron inelastic scattering near 210 MeV to obtain corrections relating measured quasifree ${P}_{\mathrm{pp}}$, ${P}_{\mathrm{np}}$, and ${D}_{\mathrm{np}}$ data to the respective free parameters.
Plasma Progestins, Estradiol, and Luteinizing Hormone Following Prostaglandin F2α Injection,

Abstract Dairy animals, ranging from days 8 to 13 of the estrous cycle, were fitted with indwelling jugular catheters 1 day prior to either intramuscular injection of prostaglandin F 2 α free acid (30mg, n=4) or intrauterine deposition of prostaglandin F 2 α free acid (10mg, n=3). Blood samples were collected at 6, 4, 2, and 0h prior to administration of prostaglandin F 2 α and at 1, 3, and every 2h thereafter until ovulation. Progestins, estradiol, and luteinizing hormone in plasma were measured by radioimmunoassay. Hormonal changes and interrelationships within animals were evaluated by least squares analyses. Decreases in progestins of plasma within 24h indicated prostaglandin F 2 α induced luteolysis in six of the seven animals. Estradiol increased linearly from time of injection to 52h postinjection. Intervals from administration of prostaglandin to onset of estrus, peak of luteinizing hormone, and ovulation were 74.9±21, 78.8±21, and 99.5±19h.
THE SUBMERGED EGO

Maturation and development of the psychic apparatus have become a sphere of central focus and many conclusions have been reached regarding the sequence of such development, the types of structuralization effected, the role of conflict, and the impact of the environment with specific reference to objects. The exploration of the mother-child relationship disclosed the influence of stimulation on primitive ego states and led to numerous theoretical conclusions which are particularly important not only for "normal" development but for the understanding of certain forms of psychopathology commonly seen and often referred to as character disorders. Geleerd (1956) reaches some retrospective conclusions concerning the early neonatal phases of development. As Freud (1914) postulated, she also feels that the fantasy of being all powerful is associated with the infantile stage before the differentiation between ego and nonego. From her clinical material she derives the fact that when the child realizes that neither he nor his mother are omnipotent, he is overcome by a rage of self-destructive proportions. An adult who reacts in this way is fixated at an omnipotent level and is unable to master both inner and outer stimuli. Boyer (1956) believes that in order to develop beyond the stage of omnipotent organization the child is dependent upon the amount and types of stimuli the mother supplies. A well-functioning mother supplies just the right amount of stimulus and is able to act as a supplementary barrier against traumatic excitations either in-
Locational choices of the legal and illegal: the case of Mexican agricultural workers in the U.S.

This paper examines relationships between legal and illegal farmworker migration from Mexico and state-level labor market, agricultural, demographic, and public policy variables. The study uses a nationally representative farmworker survey providing direct legal status data. Consistent with previous literature, results indicate that personal and community networks are primary determinants of locational choices. Conversely, border enforcement is negatively related to migration to certain areas. Results are strongest for California migrants and for those with previous migration experience. Potential welfare and education program values are uncorrelated with locations of recent Mexican agricultural workers.
Assessing the impact of the USA PATRIOT Act on the financial services industry

Outlines the requirements of the PATRIOT Act of October 2001; together with subsequent legislation, it has led to a dramatic increase in surveillance activities affecting both traditional financial institutions and the newer types known as Money Service Businesses. Lists its demands, that all financial institutions: establish a more formal anti‐money laundering programme with a compliance officer, implement an employee training programme, file Suspicious Activity Reports, verify new customers’ identities etc. Indicates the cost to the financial services industry of compliance. Concludes that, given the massive quantities of information collected, even the best technology may not ensure that the tiny minority of terrorist traces actually get followed up
The Cold War Debate Continues: A Traditionalist View of Historical Writing on Domestic Communism and Anti-Communism

This article reviews the huge Cold War-era and post-Cold War literature on American Communism and anti-Communism in the United States. These issues have long been the subject of heated scholarly debate. The recent opening of archives in Russia and other former Communist countries and the release of translated Venona documents in the United States have shed new light on key aspects of the American Communist Party that were previously unknown or undocumented. The new evidence has underscored the Soviet Union's tight control of the party and the crucial role that American Communists played in Soviet espionage. The release of all this documentation has been an unwelcome development for scholars who have long been sympathetic to the Communist movement.
Role of radiotherapy treatment of uterine sarcoma

Uterine sarcomas are rare and, consequently, data supporting the use of adjuvant radiotherapy in uterine sarcomas consist of few randomised studies and multiple single-institution retrospective reports. It is becoming increasingly clear that each histologic subtype of uterine sarcoma is a distinct entity for which tailored treatment recommendations are needed. In this review, we analysed the effect of adjuvant radiotherapy for the main histologic subtypes of uterine sarcomas. When grouping all histologies, adjuvant radiotherapy has been shown in most studies to reduce local-regional failure without an overall survival advantage, as distant failure is the predominant pattern of relapse. Carcinosarcomas have the strongest indication for adjuvant radiotherapy, especially in early stage disease. Women with leiomyosarcomas and endometrial stromal sarcomas receiving adjuvant radiotherapy have improved local control compared with women undergoing surgery alone. As distant failure rates decrease with improvements in systemic therapies, there may be a broader indication for adjuvant radiotherapy.
Experimental Study of a Two-Phase Heat Transport Device Driven by Electrohydrodynamic Conduction Pumping

Heat pipes are well-known as simple and effective heat transport devices, utilizing two-phase flow and the capillary phenomenon to remove heat. However, the generation of capillary pressure requires a wicking structure and the overall heat transport capacity of the heat pipe is generally limited by the amount of capillary pressure generation that the wicking structure can achieve. Therefore, to increase the heat transport capacity, the capillary phenomenon must be either augmented or replaced by some other pumping technique. Electro-hydrodynamic (EHD) conduction pumping has been demonstrated as an effective method for pumping liquid films by using DC electric fields and a dielectric working fluid. Beyond increased pumping capacity, EHD conduction pumping offers other advantages over capillary pumping, such as active control of the pumping capacity via the intensity of the applied electric field. This experimental study demonstrates the prospects of a macro-scale two-phase heat transport device that is driven by EHD conduction pumping. Various liquid film thicknesses are considered. In each case, the performance of the EHD-driven heat transport device at various electric field intensities is compared to the capabilities of the same device under gravity alone. The effect of tilt on the device is also considered.Copyright © 2008 by ASME
A Field Theory Lagrangian for the {MIT} Bag Model

A novel kind of local field theory is presented whose Lagrange equations correspond to the equations for particles which follow from the MIT Bag Model.
LEAF-AREA INDEX AND LIGHT ATTENUATION IN RAPIDLY EXPANDING SHRUB THICKETS

There is increasing interest in the changes in ecosystem services that accompany the conversion of grasslands to shrub-dominated communities. Shrub structure and associated effects on the light environment may be especially important in affecting productivity and diversity. Leaf-area index (LAI) and understory light levels of Morella cerifera shrub thickets were assessed on Hog Island, Virginia, USA, at four sites along a soil chronosequence. LAI was estimated from annual leaf litter, with allometric models relating stem diameter to leaf area, with a portable integrating radiometer (LI-COR LAI-2000), and from photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) using the Beer-Lambert law. For the two youngest thickets, LAI estimates from leaf litter (approximately 10.0) approached levels often associated with tropical rain forest. Allometric models estimated LAI values at 9.8 and 12.5 for the same thickets. High LAI in thickets also results in high light attenuation. Light levels within thickets were as low as 0.7% of above-canopy PAR in the youngest thicket. These data suggest that M. cerifera shrub thickets have a very high potential for annual net primary production. Furthermore, extreme modification of the light environment, coupled with heavy shrub litter fall, may exclude potential competitors during thicket establishment and rapidly alter community structure and ecosystem function.
Building middle school students' understanding of proportional reasoning through mathematical investigation

This article describes and shares an innovative pedagogical practice that holds promise in contributing to the teaching and learning of proportions in middle school. The teaching and learning of mathematics with understanding framework was used as a vehicle to help 21 seventh grade students reason proportionally. The findings of this unit suggest that the classroom culture, which encouraged the students to make connections between their existing and new ideas and reflecting and communicating their thinking, contributed to their emerging understanding of proportions. The use of an authentic and non-routine task involving liquid measurements also heightened their interest, curiosity and enthusiasm, thereby contributing to their excitement about the mathematics they were learning.
Rise of Plasma Ghrelin With Weight Loss is Not Sustained During Weight Maintenance

Objective: Ghrelin is postulated to be an orexigenic signal that promotes weight regain after weight loss (WL). However, it is not known whether this putative effect of ghrelin is sustained after weight stabilization. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship of plasma ghrelin concentrations to active WL and weight maintenance in obese subjects. Research Methods and Procedures: This study was a randomized clinical trial, with a 12-month follow-up period. Obese Mexican-American women matched for age and BMI were randomized to a 12-month WL program (n = 25) or no intervention (controls, n = 23). Interventions included diet, exercise, and orlistat. Body weight and fasting ghrelin, leptin, insulin, and glucose concentrations were measured at baseline and 6 and 12 months. Results: The WL group lost 8.5% of body weight after 6 months and maintained the new weight for the next 6 months. Ghrelin concentrations increased significantly at 6 months but returned to baseline at 12 months. Baseline ghrelin concentrations were directly related to the degree of WL achieved after 12 months. Controls experienced no change in BMI or ghrelin levels. There were no associations between plasma ghrelin and leptin or insulin concentrations. Discussion: Consistent with previous results, ghrelin rises in response to WL, perhaps as a counterregulatory mechanism. However, the present results indicate that ghrelin concentrations return to baseline with sustained weight maintenance, suggesting that its effects are unlikely to regulate long-term energy balance. Baseline ghrelin concentrations are related to the degree of WL that can be achieved by active weight reduction.
VLA H I and OH Zeeman Observations toward M17

We have carried out high-resolution (~26'') VLA H I Zeeman and main-line OH Zeeman observations toward M17. The morphology of the 26'' resolution H I line-of-sight magnetic field strength (Blos) images show general agreement with those presented in Paper I with ~60'' resolution. The similarities include the rise of the 20 km s-1 Blos toward the H II region/M17 SW interface and the concentration of high 11-17 km s-1 Blos to the northwest. However, the ~26'' H I Blos reported here are up to 2 times stronger than those measured with ~60'' resolution, suggesting that there is small-scale structure in the M17 SW magnetic field. H I Blos values as high as ~-750 μG are detected toward the M17 H II region/M17 SW interface region at 20 km s-1. OH 1665 MHz Blos Zeeman detections (with ~22'' resolution) were also made toward five ~1' regions along the M17 H II region/M17 SW interface. The average line-of-sight magnetic field strength (Blos) in the three northern OH detection regions is ~+250 μG. Another of the OH condensations is positionally and kinematically coincident with the region of high H I Blos detected toward the M17 SW interface at 20 km s-1 and has similar Blos.The higher resolution H I Zeeman Blos detections presented here support the findings of Paper I, which indicated that the M17 SW molecular cloud core is magnetically supercritical and subvirial, but is in approximate dynamic equilibrium as a whole. Assuming that the northern OH condensations are self-gravitating, we find that the critical magnetic field strength (BS,critcitation-check-placeholder>) needed to provide total support against gravity is ~3 times higher than the average observed Blos value. Our estimates also show that even including support from the magnetic wave energy (assumed equal to that of the nonthermal motions), these northern OH condensations cannot support themselves against gravitational collapse.
5'-nucleotide phosphodiesterase isozyme-V as a marker for liver metastases in breast cancer patients

A 2-year prospective study testing 258 breast cancer patients for the presence of 5'-nucleotide phosphodiesterase isozyme-V (5'-NPD-V) as a marker for liver metastases was undertaken. Despite the difficulty associated with such a study in obtaining data from biopsy (only 12 patients) and autopsy (only 18 patients), the 5'-NPD-V test correctly predicted confirmed liver metastases in 39 of 41 patients (95%). Of this group, 25 patients had abnormal liver scans at the time the 5'-NPD-V test was positive (64%). In 11 of 39 patients 5'-NPD-V was found positive before liver scans. In the majority of patients, 5'-NPD-V fluctuated between positive and negative during follow-up. While such transiently positive values may be related to treatment, they should be interpreted conservatively as liver proliferation until confirmed otherwise. Throughout the 2-year study only seven patients with nonmalignant hepatic diseases had consistent positive values (2.7%). As an indicator of liver metastases 5'-NPD-V is more specific than other liver function tests. It is also important to note that 14 patients received early chemotherapy because attention was directed toward the diagnosis of liver metastases by this test.
Abdominal pain and distention.

Appendicite aigue perforee avec occlusion incomplete de l'intestin grele chez un enfant de 12 ans