cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The pyramid decomposition and rank minimization

It is shown that every m X n matrix M over a regular ring with 1 can be decomposed as M = M, + M, + M, + M,, where M, Q M, + M, d M, + M, + M, < M and Q is the minus order. This horizontal pyramid decomposition can be used to obtain, firstly, a pyramid decomposition for 2 X 2 block matrices, which over a division ring immediately yields the classical rank formula for block matrices. Secondly, it also yields a horizontal version of this block rank formula. These rank formulae are then respectively used to solve the horizontal and vertical rank minimization problems, which are involved in the computation of the shorted matrix of M relative to subspaces W, and W,.
Differentiation of Constrictive Pericarditis From Restrictive Cardiomyopathy: Assessment of Left Ventricular Diastolic Velocities in Longitudinal Axis by Doppler Tissue Imaging

Objectives. We sought to determine the utility of left ventricular expansion velocities in differentiating constrictive pericarditis from restrictive cardiomyopathy. Background. Several studies have shown that left ventricular diastolic expansion is influenced by the elastic recoil forces of the myocardium. These forces are affected by intrinsic myocardial disease but should be preserved when diastole is impaired as a result of extrinsic causes. Methods. Using Doppler tissue imaging, we measured peak early velocity of longitudinal axis expansion (Ea) in 8 patients with constrictive pericarditis, 7 patients with restriction and 15 normal volunteers. Transmitral early (E) and late (A) Doppler flow velocities, left ventricular systolic and diastolic volumes, ejection fraction and mitral annular M-mode displacement were also compared between the groups. Results. The Eavalue was significantly higher in normal subjects (14.5 ± 4.7 cm/s [mean ±SD]) and in patients with constriction (14.8 ± 4.8 cm/s) than in those with restriction (5.1 ± 1.4 cm/s, p Conclusions. Our study indicates that longitudinal axis expansion velocities are markedly reduced in patients with restrictive cardiomyopathy. The poor correlation found with transvalvular flow velocities suggests that Eamay be relatively preload independent. The measurement of longitudinal axis expansion velocities provides a clinically useful distinction between constrictive pericarditis and restrictive cardiomyopathy and may prove to be valuable in the study of diastolic function.
Far-Field Diffraction by a Conducting Strip*

The exact vector solution of far-field diffraction by a conducting strip is verified experimentally. Strips of 0.015- and 0.37-λ thickness were investigated. Results for both polarizations are compared for a strip of 2.85-λ width irradiated by a plane wave incident at glancing angles of 64°, 44°, and 24°. An approximate solution based upon Kirchhoff’s theory is compared with the vector formulation.
Enhanced electromechanical coupling in Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 ⟨001⟩C radially textured cylinders

We demonstrate Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 cylinders with ∼98% ⟨100⟩C texture along the radial direction. A giant enhancement in the magnitude of electromechanical coupling factor (k31 = kh = 0.60, and kl = 0.7) was obtained for textured cylinder, and d31 × g31 was measured to be 6766 × 10−15 m2/N which is 3–6 times higher than that of commercial Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 compositions. The crystallographic grain orientation in the textured cylinder was visualized by electron backscatter diffraction, and the domain structure was characterized by piezoresponse force microscopy. Using these results, we explain the mechanism for this enhanced performance of radially textured piezoelectrics.
Cybernetics of cybernetics in assessment of marital quality

Quality of marriage is a term or a phrase that still lacks a clear and precise referent. Marital adjustment, success, satisfaction, compatibility, and stability are terms that have been variously employed. Following the lead of Fincham and Bradbury, a case is made for the fact that the best measure for marital quality is the global evaluation of marriage, i.e. the evaluation placed on the relationship as a whole by the marital partners. This is cybernetics of cybernetics wherein the observer becomes part of the observed.
Action of Long-Chain Polymers on Kidney Juxtaglomerular Cells and Connective Tissue Mast Cells

The histochemical nature and the biologic characteristics of the specific cytoplasmic granulations of the juxtaglomerular (J-G) cells of the kidney have been reinvestigated. In the rat, it appears that these cells are mesenchymal in origin and capable of reacting as part of the reticuloendothelial system when exposed to the action of long-chain polymers like dextran or ovomucoid. The substance contained in the granules is probably constituted by a mixture of polysaccharide sulfate esters and lipoids, accounting for their staining properties with metachromatic dyes. Hyaluronic acid is not responsible for the latter reaction. The J-G granules respond in a manner strikingly similar to that of mast-cell granules after treatment with dextran or ovomucoid. The attempt to quantitate the amount of histamine liberated by degranulation of J-G cells has been less successful than with degranulated connective tissue mast cells, owing to the low J-G cell/parenchyma ratio in the kidney. The presence of mast-cell-like elements at the vascular pole of the kidney glomerulus is stressed in view of their possible role in the functional activity of the nephron, owing to the fact that degranulation of these cells is capable of releasing anticoagulant and vasoactive substances like heparin, histamine, and serotonin proximal to 1 of the most important circulatory districts of the body. The finding of elements with analogous characteristics in the subintimal layer of arterioles in other organs raises the question as to whether J-G cells play a less specialized role in the kidney than hitherto supposed.
Comparison of microwave and radiofrequency low-temperature ashing of coal using 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy of sulphur forms

Abstract Low-temperature ashing of coal was carried out by the normal radiofrequency method and a new microwave technique to compare the effects of the two procedures on the Fe-S compounds in coal. Results from 57 Fe Mossbauer spectroscopy and chemical analyses indicate that the microwave technique, like the normal LTA procedure, effectively ashes the coal without the oxidation of pyritic sulphur. Dehydration of iron sulphates and oxidation of Fe 2+ to Fe 3+ in sulphates occurs in both ashing procedures under the conditions tested, the sequence being FeS0 4 .4H 2 O → FeS0 4 .H 2 0→Fe 3+ . Dehydration is caused by sample heating rather than by reaction with the activated oxygen. The combination of the Mossbauer method and chemical analysis has allowed the determination of the recoilless fraction ratio f(sulphate) f(pyrite) = 0.55 ±0.15 , which puts the Mossbauer results on a more quantitative basis than before. This is thought to be the first quantitative work on coal and coal products that has accounted for differences in f -values for different Fe compounds.
Measurements Of X-Ray Fluorescence Yields Of Plastics By Photoexcitation

With the recent compilation of the low-energy x-ray photoabsorption and scattering factors, it has become more practical to determine low-energy x-ray fluorescence yields and to check the scattering cross sections of materials by x-ray photoexcitation. The x-ray fluorescence yield measurements of carbon in polypropylene, oxygen in mylar, and fluorine in polytetrafluorethylene (teflon), by Al x-ray photoexcitation will be presented. Also a comparison of calculated to observed Al Ka x-ray scattering from these plastics will be presented.
2H(p,2p)n at 508 MeV: Recoil momenta <= 200 MeV/c.

Differential cross sections for the reaction /sup 2/H(p,2p)n at T/sub p/ = 507 and 508 MeV are presented. The kinematics selected included two quasi-free angle pairs: 41.5/sup 0/-41.4/sup 0/ and 30.1/sup 0/-53.75/sup 0/; in addition, data away from the quasi-free condition were obtained in four symmetric angle pairs: 38.1/sup 0/-38.0/sup 0/, 44.1/sup 0/-44.0/sup 0/, 47.1/sup 0/-47.0/sup 0/, and 50.0/sup 0/-50.0/sup 0/, and five asymmetric angles pairs: 30.1/sup 0/-37.0/sup 0/, 30.1/sup 0/-44.0/sup 0/, 30.1/sup 0/-61.0/sup 0/, 30.1/sup 0/-68.0/sup 0/, and 41.5/sup 0/-50.0/sup 0/. The data range over an energy window 100 MeV wide on one of the proton energies, the second energy being defined by the kinematic condition of a single neutron recoiling. The data are compared with the impulse approximation prediction and with the results of a nonrelativistic calculation of the six lowest-order Feynman diagrams describing the reaction. A previously known missing strength for the reaction in the small neutron recoil region is confirmed with much smaller experimental uncertainty; the missing strength persists up to 150 MeV/c neutron recoil. The onset of a systematic cross section excess relative to the impulse approximation near neutron recoil momentum 200 MeV/c is explored in detail.
α-Granules at the BEACH.

In this issue of Blood , Kahr et al report the description of a mouse model lacking the Nbeal2 protein and demonstrate its utility in the study of α-granule biogenesis and megakaryocyte development in gray platelet syndrome (GPS).[1][1] GPS (Mendelian Inheritance in Man [MIM] 139090) was first
INNOCENCE, ERROR, AND THE “NEW ABOLITIONISM”: A COMMENTARY

If statistics are any indication, the system may well be allowing some innocent defendants to be executed. - Justice Sandra Day O'Connor Language: en
Bypassing the embedding: algorithms for low dimensional metrics

The doubling dimension of a metric is the smallest k such that any ball of radius 2r can be covered using 2k balls of radius r. This concept for abstract metrics has been proposed as a natural analog to the dimension of a Euclidean space. If we could embed metrics with low doubling dimension into low dimensional Euclidean spaces, they would inherit several algorithmic and structural properties of the Euclidean spaces. Unfortunately however, such a restriction on dimension does not suffice to guarantee embeddibility in a normed space.In this paper we explore the option of bypassing the embedding. In particular we show the following for low dimensional metrics: Quasi-polynomial time (1+e)-approximation algorithm for various optimization problems such as TSP, k-median and facility location. (1+e)-approximate distance labeling scheme with optimal label length. (1+e)-stretch polylogarithmic storage routing scheme.
Avoidance strategies in an exceptional child during unsuccessful reading performances

Employing an interactional analysis and focusing on the complexity of meaning making, this study investigates the uses of several types of avoidance strategies generated by a language-disordered boy who is struggling with literacy. The results suggest that these avoidance strategies may function as compensatory adaptations that assist him in overcoming his literacy limitations so that he can still sustain effective social action even within contexts where his literacy difficulties are highlighted. There are both theoretical and practical implications for these findings.
Renal response to ureteral obstruction in early development.

The purpose of this review is to consider some of the responses whereby the neonatal kidney appears to be at greater risk than the adult in sustaining injury from ureteral obstruction
Disposition of pentachlorophenol in rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri): effect of inhibition of metabolism

Abstract The accumulation kinetics of pentachlorophenol (PCP) were investigated in rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) in the absence and presence of 25 mg/1 salicylamide, an inhibitor of PCP metabolism. After exposure to 5 μg/1 PCP over 1–96 h, the amount of PCP in the whole fish, its concentration in water and the total amount of metabolites (water, whole fish and bile) were measured. Equations for these variables, based on a two compartment pharmacokinetic model, were fitted simultaneously to the data using the computer program NONLIN, which uses an iterative nonlinear least squares technique. Salicylamide decreased the metabolic clearance of PCP, which resulted in an increase in the bioconcentration factor (BCF); this increase was partially offset by a salicylamide-induced decrease in the apparent volume of distribution of PCP. A clearance-volume compartment model permitted partitioning of the BCF in terms of the underlying physiologic and biochemical processes (uptake clearance, metabolic clearance and apparent volume of distribution). With this approach the BCF can be categorized as either dependent (e.g., PCP) or independent of uptake and metabolism (elimination) based on the relative sizes of the clearances for uptake and metabolism. Inhibition of PCP metabolism resulted in a loss of its dependence on uptake and metabolism. The BCF estimated as the apparent volume of distribution may be useful for assessment of the risk associated with exposure and bioaccumulation potential, as elimination is generally quite variable among aquatic species.
Use of State and Transitional Information

The problem concerned relative human ability to digest information describing the state of the environment (σ) or state transitions (τ). The task required the summing or differencing of symbolically presented σ or τ information items. In the first study, subjects were presented σ or τ information in mixed order and σ or τ queries at variable intervals. A second study entailed uniform translation from σ to τ or τ to σ modes. The chief results were: (a) acquisition across modes—τ—σ or σ-τ—is more difficult than within mode acquisition; (b) τ—σ acquisition is superior to σ-τ acquisition; (c) both number of elements and number of phases or levels within elements add to task difficulty; and (d) the relative advantage of σ over τ acquisition decreases with an increasing number of presented items. It is suggested that the results may be explained in part by the comparative economy of state information storage for normal decision making tasks.
Portable and Rapidly Deployable Bridges: Historical Perspective and Recent Technology Developments

AbstractPortable and rapidly deployable bridges are critical for providing access routes for troops during military operations and for restoring vital lifelines for communities affected by large-scale disasters. This paper reviews the history and the state of the art in portable and rapidly deployable bridge technology, primarily for U.S. systems. Four types of deployable systems are presented, including (1) rapidly erectable gap-crossing bridges (e.g., Bailey Bridge, Medium Girder Bridge), (2) vehicle-launched bridges (e.g., Armored Vehicle–Launched Bridge, Dry Support Bridge), (3) river-crossing solutions (e.g., M4T6, Improved Ribbon Bridge), and (4) causeways (e.g., Navy Elevated Causeway System, Lightweight Modular Causeway System). Discussion of each design emphasizes the technology itself, its application throughout history, and the evolution of the forms in relation to one another. The paper concludes with a discussion of the future of these technologies. The paper provides the first review of port...
Mesoscopic superconducting devices and circuits: Variable squid and superconducting micronet current amplifier

Abstract Two mesoscopic superconducting devices based on micronets are introduced and analysed in the context of the Ginzburg-Landau theory. The 4-Port Variable Superconducting Quantum Interference Device with micronet leads is a passive device that can accurately measure magnetic fields, with a resolution dependent on its size and control current. The 3-Port Superconducting Micronet Current Amplifier (SMCA) with bulk leads is an active device, with a current controlled current gain determined by the input-current/applied-flux operating point and the relative lengths of the internal micronetwork branches. Analog and digital circuit applications of the SMCA are developed. The most significant is a differential amplifier-gradiometer that can measure small current differences, and small magnetic flux differences, less than the fluxoid quantum, Φ0 = 2.068 × 10−15 T-m2.
The effects of nitrogen limitation on the ultrastructure of the cyanobacterium Agmenellum quadruplicatum

The effects of nitrogen limitation on the ultrastructure of the unicellular cyanobacterium, Agmenellum quadruplicatum, were studied by thin sectioning transmission electron microscopy. Nitrogen became limiting for growth 14–15 h after transfer to nitrogen-limiting medium, but cultures retained full viability for at least 45 h. The c-phycocyanin: chlorophyll a ratio and cellular nitrogen content of the culture dropped rapidly after 14–15 h, as a progressive deterioration of major cell structures took place. Phycobilisomes were degraded first, followed by ribosomes and, then, thylakoid membranes. These structures were virtually depleted from the cells within 26 h. Intracellular polysaccharide accumulated in place of the normal cell structures throughout this period. Nitrogen limitation did not affect polyphosphate bodies, carboxysomes, lipid granules, the cell envelope, or the extra-cellular glycocalyx. All of the ultrastructural changes resulting from nitrogen limitation were reversed upon addition of nitrate to a starved culture. Most cell structures were restored within 3 h, and restoration was complete within 9 h.
Organic/inorganic Langmuir-Blodgett films based on known layered solids: characterization and reaction of cobalt octadecylphosphonate

Abstract Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) films of cobalt octadecylphosphonate were prepared and shown to form mixed organic/inorganic layered films of the formula Co(O 3 PC 18 H 37 )·H 2 O possessing two-dimensional continuous solid metal phosphonate layers. The films were characterized with X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), ellipsometry, and attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and they were shown to be LB analogs of the known solid-state layered cobalt phosphonates. Reactivity seen in the solid-state cobalt phosphates was also demonstrated for the LB films. Like the solid-state analogs, the cobalt phosphonate LB films can be dehydrated and reacted to uptake ammonia from the vapor phase.
Random Events, Economic Losses, and Retrospective Voting: Implications for Democratic Competence

Random Events, Economic Losses, and Retrospective Voting: Implications for Democratic Competence
Interorganellar signal transduction: the arrest of secretion response.

Abstract Signals from the secretory pathway caused by "traffic jams" are transduced by the WSC1 , WSC2/PKC1 signaling pathway and result in nuclear reorganization and ribosomal gene repression.
Instructional Experiences of Graduate Assistants Implementing Explicit and Reflective Introductory Biology Laboratories

Science education reform documents identify nature of science (NOS) as a critical component of scientific literacy and call for universities, colleges, and K-12 schools to explicitly integrate NOS learning into science curricula. In response to these calls, this study investigated the classroom practices of nine graduate assistants (GAs) who taught expository and inquiry laboratories that implemented an explicit and reflective (ER) pedagogy to teach NOS. The purpose of this qualitative study was to better understand the experiences that enabled or inhibited GA implementation of an ER strategy in a college setting. The findings revealed that achieving quality implementation in this setting was very difficult. Factors such as GAs' ability to foster meaningful classroom discussions, laboratory logistics (e.g. lack of time and supplies), and the value undergraduates and GAs saw in learning about NOS were identified by GAs and observed by the researchers as barriers to the technique maximizing its potential. T...
Differential Responses of Tropical Roseate Terns to Aerial Intruders Throughout the Nesting Cycle

We studied a small (63-pair) breeding colony of Roseate Terns (Sterna dougallii) at Culebra, Puerto Rico, in 1990 to identify disturbances caused by, and responses elicited by, aerial intruders and to determine the effect of predation on reproductive success of this threatened species. Laughing Gulls (Larus atricilla) were the most frequent cause of disturbance to nesting adults and captured at least two chicks. More intrusions occurred during the early stages of the breeding season and in the early morning than at other times. Defensive aggression in nesting Roseate Terns increased until the chick hatching stage, then decreased progressively through fledging. Neither the number of adults nor the number of chicks in the colony influenced aggressive responses against intruders as strongly as the nesting stage, suggesting that this population of Roseate Terns was most aggressive when the young were most vulnerable. Although our findings contrast with traditional parental investment theory, they are consistent with other studies of defensive aggression in seabirds. Most chick losses occurred during or shortly after hatching. Reproductive success of the colony was 0.25 + 0.50 chicks/pair and may have been low due to egg and chick mortality caused by predatory land crabs (Gecarcinus ruricola) that were abundant in the colony. Our findings suggest that although Roseate Terns responded appropriately to potential avian predators at this small Culebra colony, they were unable to successfully defend against certain ground predators (e.g., crabs).
Ferroresonant Overvoltage Control Based on TNA Tests on Three-Phase Delta - Wye Transformer Banks

This paper shows possible ferroresonant overvoltages on wye-delta transformer banks during single-phase switching as a function of transformer size and lateral length. Application guide is based on industry standard voltage criteria. Secondary loading and neutral resistor requirements are given. A neutral resistor presents an attractive solution in many cases. Simple to use equations are given to allow application of test data.
On the nature and rate of resurfacing of Venus

Crrater production and obliteration are modeled for the plains of Venus, using (1) the observed distribution of Venus-crossing asteroids and comets; (2) viscous relaxation of crater topography; and (3) erosion and burial by atmospheric, volcanic, and tectonic processes. Crater lifetimes are assumed to be proportional to crater depths for both classes of obliterative processes although the individual criteria vary. An average crater retention age between 0.4 to 2.0 Gyr is estimated for plains, under the assumption that craters are produced and not removed. The range is driven by uncertainty in identifying degraded impact as opposed to volcanic craters. On the other hand, crater retention ages greater than about 1.6 Gyr are unlikely if viscous relaxation operates without loading of crater floor by burial. The preferred model has plains subject to crater production and obliteration processes that vary over both space and time.
Oxidative Dehydrogenation of Ethane over a Pt-Coated Monolith versus Pt-Loaded Pellets: Surface Area and Thermal Effects

Abstract The catalytic performance of Pt-coated γ-Al 2 O 3 pellets is compared to the performance of a Pt-coated α-Al 2 O 3 monolith in the oxidative dehydrogenation of ethane to ethylene at short contact times. The use of the high surface area γ-Al 2 O 3 support has a detrimental impact upon the production of the desired reactive intermediate, C 2 H 4 . The porous nature of the high surface area pellet support reduces the selectivity to intermediate products (C 2 H 4 ) in favor of complete combustion. The axial and radial temperature profiles of the monolith and packed bed were examined to better understand the difference in catalytic performance of the two catalyst configurations. The radial temperature profile for the Pt-coated γ-Al 2 O 3 pellets shows hot spot formation along the center-line of the catalyst bed which leads to lower C 2 H 4 selectivity and can lead to thermal runaway. However, the radial temperature profile of the Pt-coated α-Al 2 O 3 monolith is fairly flat across the monolith with a slight temperature drop between the edge of the catalyst and the reactor wall. This more uniform catalyst temperature leads to a higher production of C 2 H 4 .
Bmp signaling is required for intestinal growth and morphogenesis

Intestinal growth, morphogenesis, differentiation, and homeostasis are regulated by reciprocal interactions between the epithelium and the underlying mesenchymal stroma. The identification of BMPR1A mutations in patients with Juvenile Polyposis implicates Bmp signaling as an important mediator of these interactions. To test this hypothesis, we inhibited Bmp signaling in the mouse proximal intestine by transgenic misexpression of the BMP antagonist, noggin, using regulatory elements of the fatty acid binding protein (Fabp1) gene. This leads to abnormal villus morphogenesis, stromal and epithelial hyperplasia, and ectopic crypt formation. The resulting intestinal histopathology resembles that seen in human Juvenile Polyposis. Misexpression of noggin in the large intestine gives a similar abnormal phenotype in this region of the gut. Analysis of gene expression in the transgenic small intestine raises the possibility that Hedgehog and Pdgf signaling play a role in the development of the Juvenile Polyposis-like phenotype. Developmental Dynamics 235:1563–1570, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Caveolin-1 knockout mice exhibit airway hyperreactivity.

Caveolae are flask-shaped plasma membrane invaginations expressing the scaffolding caveolin proteins. Although caveolins have been found in endothelium and epithelium (where they regulate nitric ox...
Reducing Marketing’s Conflict with Other Functions: The Differential Effects of Integrating Mechanisms

To operate effectively, marketing must work in harmony with other functional departments in a firm. This study focuses on marketing’s interactions with three functions that play a key role in the achievement of marketing goals—finance, manufacturing, and R&D. The authors combine insights from previous studies and interviews with practicing managers to identify six integrating mechanisms proposed to mitigate manifest interfunctional conflict (behavior that frustrates marketing initiatives). In addition, they investigate the role of internal volatility (turbulence within an organization) in shaping manifest conflict. Based on a large-scale, multi-informant empirical study, the authors identify the more effective of these six integrating mechanisms. Furthermore, they argue and demonstrate these mechanisms are differentially effective across the marketing-finance, marketing-manufacturing, and marketing-R&D interfaces. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Some anomalies of numerical simulation of shock waves. Part I: inviscid flows

Abstract In this part, nonunique solutions of potential and Euler equations are discussed. Previous work related to the airfoil problem is reviewed and some new results are presented. Simple models based on Burger’s equation and quasi-one-dimensional nozzle flow are examined. An example for a three-dimensional wing admitting nonunique solutions of the potential and Euler equations is also included.
Algorithms for the solution of material balance equations for non-conventional multi-stage operations

Abstract Multicomponent distillation programs in general use are seldom capable of describing systems whose flow patterns differ from the conventional counter-current. However, these programs may be extended to include pumparounds or interphase mass transfer by algorithms which require neither additional internal iteration steps nor repetitive solutions. For a pumparound, a recursive procedure is developed to use the conventional Thomas Algorithm modified by an additional multiplier in the second step. To describe interphase mass transfer, the solution to the set of material balance equations requires a recursive technique in which the definitions for the algorithm alternate for successive stages. The use of recursional procedures is demonstrated on a multicomponent distillation column simulation.
Antibodies to the superantigenic site of HIV-1 gp120: hydrolytic and binding activities of the light chain subunit.

Abstract Antibodies (Abs) to the superantigenic determinant of HIV gp120 (gp120SAg) are potential protective agents against HIV infection. We report that the light chain subunits of Abs cloned from lupus patients using phage library methods bind and hydrolyze gp120SAg independent of the heavy chain. Unlike frequent gp120SAg recognition by intact Abs attributable to VH domain structural elements, the isolated light chains expressed this activity rarely. Four light chains capable of gp120SAg recognition were identified by fractionating phage displayed light chains using peptide probes containing gp120 residues 421–433, a gp120SAg component. Three light chains expressed non-covalent gp120SAg binding and one expressed gp120SAg hydrolyzing activity. The hydrolytic light chain was isolated by covalent phage fractionation using an electrophilic analog of residues 421–433. This light chain hydrolyzed a reporter gp120SAg substrate and full-length gp120. Other peptide substrates and proteins were hydrolyzed at lower rates or not at all. Consistent with the expected nucleophilic mechanism of hydrolysis, the light chain reacted selectively and covalently with the electrophilic gp120SAg peptide analog. The hydrolytic reaction entailed a fast initial step followed by a slower rate limiting step, suggesting rapid substrate acylation and slow deacylation. All four gp120SAg-recognizing light chains contained sequence diversifications relative to their germline gene counterparts. These observations indicate that in rare instances, the light chain subunit can bind and hydrolyze gp120SAg without the participation of the heavy chain. The pairing of such light chains with heavy chains capable of gp120SAg recognition represents a potential mechanism for generating protective Abs with enhanced HIV binding strength and anti-viral proteolytic activity.
Approximate limit load evaluation of structural frames using linear elastic analysis

This work investigates applications and limitations of iterative modulus variation procedures combined with linear elastic analysis to calculate lower bounds of collapse loads. These modulus variation procedures are currently used to account for inelastic behavior in pressure vessel and piping system design. Here, applications to framed structures are studied. Three different modulus variation procedures are implemented within a conventional linear elastic finite element code and compared. The procedure that reduces only elastic moduli at high stressed elements of a structural model is found to be the most convenient strategy to estimate collapse conditions. This procedure is then applied to two- and three-dimensional frames, with homogeneous and non-homogeneous cross-sections, and assuming both constant and proportional loading. Using this procedure, it is possible to predict satisfactory approximations of collapse loads and failure mechanisms. In earthquake engineering practice if the earthquake motions are simulated as equivalent static proportional loads, this simplified procedure may be a useful and economical tool in the implementation of performance based design procedures in preliminary engineering, in verification processes, in structural optimization, and when facing complex geometric configurations. This procedure can be used to estimate approximations of both load redistribution in collapse conditions and failure modes when assuming different lateral load patterns along with gravity loads. It can be useful to determine optimum failure modes in new structures or weak links in existing structures. The method requires only minimal conceptual bases for application and moderate computational effort.
Parenteral alimentation in infants and children with life-threatening illness

Summary Nutritional support was provided by intravenous alimentation in eighteen critically ill infants and children for periods of 10 to 186 days. Weight gain was consistent and predictable, although survival was ultimately determined by the nature of the primary disease process. Complications in this series included catheter sepsis in two patients. Both became asymptomatic after removal of the line. Two patients had hypocalcemia, and one of these had hypomagnesemia. In both patients, prompt remission of symptoms occurred after provision of these minerals in appropriate quantities. The potential complications of this procedure require that its use be limited to specific, well defined indications in a setting where attentive nursing and minute to minute monitoring are routine.
Discussion of “Needed research in sedimentation”

An old Latin adage says, “Nature has made judges of all of us, but only a few artists.” In this spirit it is that I would like to comment on Ackermann's interesting programmatic outline. The present writer recently attempted to tackle one of the problems involved in desert sand sedimentation, not mentioned by Ackermann because he deals mostly with sedimentation in water, and has set up a morphogenetic function relating, tentatively, the shape Sx,tt of a sand grain at a certain place x and a certain time t to some ten factors influencing this shape. Ackermann does not mention the great amount of fine research done with regard to the role of size and shape in sedimentation.
Adrenergic Control of Serum Potassium

THE behavior of excitable cells like those in muscles and nerves, of secretory cells like those in the kidney or gastrointestinal tract, and indeed of all the body's cells, whatever their function,...
Identification of Active-Site Amino Acid Residues in the Chiba Virus 3C-Like Protease

The 3C-like protease of the Chiba virus, a Norwalk-like virus, is one of the chymotrypsin-like proteases. To identify active-site amino acid residues in this protease, 37 charged amino acid residues and a putative nucleophile, Cys139, within the GDCG sequence were individually replaced with Ala in the 3BC precursor, followed by expression in Escherichia coli, where the active 3C-like protease would cleave 3BC into 3B (VPg) and 3C (protease). Among 38 Ala mutants, 7 mutants (R8A, H30A, K88A, R89A, D138A, C139A, and H157A) completely or nearly completely lost the proteolytic activity. Cys139 was replaceable only with Ser, suggesting that an SH or OH group in the less bulky side chain was required for the side chain of the residue at position 139. His30, Arg89, and Asp138 could not be replaced with any other amino acids. Although Arg8 was also not replaceable for the 3B/3C cleavage and the 3C/3D cleavage, the N-terminal truncated mutant devoid of Arg8 significantly cleaved 3CD into 3C and 3D (polymerase), indicating that Arg8 itself was not directly involved in the proteolytic cleavage. As for position 88, a positively charged residue was required because the Arg mutant showed significant activity. As deduced by the X-ray structure of the hepatitis A virus 3C protease, Arg8, Lys88, and Arg89 are far away from the active site, and the side chain of Asp138 is directed away from the active site. Therefore, these are not catalytic residues. On the other hand, all of the mutants of His157 in the S1 specificity pocket tended to retain very slight activity, suggesting a decreased level of substrate recognition. These results, together with a sequence alignment with the picornavirus 3C proteases, indicate that His30 and Cys139 are active-site residues, forming a catalytic dyad without a carboxylate directly participating in the proteolysis.
Oral tolerance: mechanisms and possible role in inflammatory joint diseases

Summary Decreased systemic immune responsiveness to a specific antigen following exposure to that antigen by the enteric route is termed ‘oral tolerance’. Oral tolerance is revealed when attempts are made to parenterally immunize the host to the same antigen that was previously administered orally or intragastrically. A similar phenomenon is also seen following antigen exposure via the nasal mucosa and a related phenomenon is seen following antigen exposure in the upper respiratory tract. There has been a marked renewal of interest in the mechanisms that underlie oral tolerance because of its potential role for preventing and treating autoimmune and inflammatory diseases and IgE-mediated allergic disorders. The specific factors that determine whether or not the host develops mucosal tolerance to an antigen administered by the mucosal route are also of substantial importance for those involved in mucosal vaccine development. Furthermore, putative abnormalities in the ability of the host to develop mucosal tolerance may play a pathogenetic role in certain autoimmune and allergic diseases and disorders. Several well-defined immunological mechanisms mediate oral tolerance. These include the induction, following mucosal antigen exposure, of regulatory populations of T-cells that can down-regulate specific immune responses (e.g. DTH) via the production of specific cytokines (e.g. TGF-β1, IL-10 and IL-4). In addition, clonal anergy, clonal deletion and antibody-mediated suppression can be shown to play a role in the induction and maintenance of mucosal tolerance in several experimental systems. In animal studies, the onset of collagen-induced, adjuvant-induced, antigen-induced and pristane-induced arthritis has been delayed and the severity of ongoing disease diminished following feeding collagen type II. Mucosal tolerance has been clearly demonstrated in humans and clinical studies have been undertaken to treat rheumatoid arthritis using a similar approach. Results of initial clinical studies in rheumatoid arthritis indicated a modest improvement and further studies are ongoing in this and other autoimmune diseases (e.g. multiple sclerosis, autoimmune uveitis and insulin-dependent diabetes). This approach, if successful, could offer a new and novel therapeutic modality for preventing autoimmune and allergic disorders, and modulating ongoing disease.
High-resolution photoemission study of organic systems at the CAMD 3 m NIM beamline

The 3 m normal incidence monochromator (NIM) VUV beamline at CAMD was designed for novel high-resolution photoemission experiments. Both solid-state samples and gas phase resolution tests demonstrate that high-resolution photoemission is possible below 10 meV, and vibronic fi ne structure in the photoemission fi nal state from the crystalline copolymer poly-vinylidenefl uoride with trifl uoroethylene can be observed: the fi rst direct experimental identifi cation of symmetry dependence in electron–phonon coupling in photoemission from a solid-state system.
Pulmonary dysfunction in survivors of childhood hematologic malignancies after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

BACKGROUND The number of long-term survivors of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) is increasing; however, few studies have addressed their long-term pulmonary function.
Learning Kernel Expansions for Image Classification

Kernel machines (e.g. SVM, KLDA) have shown state-of-the-art performance in several visual classification tasks. The classification performance of kernel machines greatly depends on the choice of kernels and its parameters. In this paper, we propose a method to search over a space of parameterized kernels using a gradient-descent based method. Our method effectively learns a non-linear representation of the data useful for classification and simultaneously performs dimensionality reduction. In addition, we suggest a new matrix formulation that simplifies and unifies previous approaches. The effectiveness and robustness of the proposed algorithm is demonstrated in both synthetic and real examples of pedestrian and mouth detection in images.
Social ideology and reactions to international events

Abstract : The study is an attempt to test the implications of a theory of social ideology concerning reactions to international crises. It was postulated that each individual, as a product of socialization, develops an ideological orientation towards others in which they are conceptualized as good, strong, and humanistic on one end of a continuum and bad, weak, and 'object' on the other end of the continuum. It was suggested that each conceptual pattern is influential in determining the values relative to the (a) punishment - reward system of society, (b) the power-structure, and the (c) interpersonal relationships. The purpose of the investigation was to test the hypotheses that (a) the more positive the conception of man, the greater the tendency to advocate negotiation in international conflicts, to accept international controls, and to support economic aid to other nations, and (b) the more positive the ideological orientation, the less the ethnocentricism and authoritarianism. (Author)
Prototype of a social networking application in a multi-hop autonomous ad hoc network

This demo presents an application providing unique social networking and connectivity applications in a multi-hop mobile ad hoc network including peer-to-peer text messaging, push and pull photo sharing, bi-directional VoIP and near-real-time streaming video. These services are provided in an ad hoc network in which all stations are considered peers and no infrastructure is available for assistance. The demo further shows an important aspect of ad hoc networks, that of multi-hop range extension.
Clinical Validation of the Molecular BD GeneOhm StaphSR Assay for Direct Detection of Staphylococcus aureus and Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus in Positive Blood Cultures

The rapid detection of Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia and a swift determination of methicillin susceptibility has serious clinical implications affecting patient mortality. This study evaluated the StaphSR assay (BD GeneOhm, San Diego, CA), a real-time PCR assay, for the identification and differentiation of methicillin-susceptible S. aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) from 300 positive blood cultures. The BD GeneOhm StaphSR assay was performed and interpreted according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Positive blood cultures (containing predominantly gram-positive cocci in clusters) were subcultured on 5% sheep blood agar plates. After 18 to 24 h of incubation, isolates morphologically consistent with S. aureus were presumptively identified by latex agglutination (Staphaurex Plus; Remel, Lenexa, KS). Susceptibility testing was initially performed with the Phoenix automated microbiology system (BD Diagnostics, Sparks, MD). Additional susceptibility testing of samples with discrepant results was done using BBL oxacillin screen agar (BD Diagnostics, Sparks, MD), oxacillin and cefoxitin Etests (AB Biodisk, Solna, Sweden) on Mueller-Hinton agar, an immunoassay for penicillin binding protein 2 (Denka Seiken Co., Tokyo, Japan), and mecA PCR. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the BD GeneOhm StaphSR assay for MSSA detection were 98.9, 96.7, 93.6, and 99.5%, respectively. For the detection of MRSA, the BD GeneOhm StaphSR assay was 100% sensitive and 98.4% specific; positive and negative predictive values for MRSA detection were 92.6 and 100%, respectively. Inhibition was seen with only one sample, and the issue was resolved upon retesting. The BD GeneOhm StaphSR assay appears to be a valuable diagnostic tool for quickly differentiating bacteremia caused by MSSA and MRSA from that caused by other gram-positive cocci.
A review of the literature concerning HIV and cigarette smoking: Morbidity and mortality, associations with individual- and social-level characteristics, and smoking cessation efforts

Cigarette smoking is endemic among many populations, but is especially prevalent among people living with HIV, and is consequently associated with a variety of types of morbidity as well as mortality. Despite this knowledge, relatively little research has been conducted among smokers living with HIV. Extant research has focused on examining individual-level characteristics associated with smoking behaviors, to the neglect of examining social-level factors. This manuscript represents a critical literature review of the intersecting research fields of HIV and cigarette smoking. Topics considered within this review include: morbidity, mortality, as well as treatment and medication adherence outcomes; individual- and social-level characteristics associated with various smoking behaviors; evidence-based smoking cessation interventions; and findings from cessation interventions among smokers living with HIV. Additionally, gaps in the existing literature, as well as directions for future research were identified...
Impact of SOI History Effect on Random Data Signals

The impact of silicon-on-insulator (SOI) history effect in communication circuits containing delay chains is experimentally evaluated. In previous work, SOI history has been seen to change data pulse widths by 5% to 15% for fixed data patterns. In contrast, this work shows that data scrambling and DC balance reduce the effect to 1% or less, eliminating history effect as a concern for such communication circuits.
The Incorporation and Thermal Stability of Organic Dyes in Dialkylsiloxane-Oxide Matrices

The dyes oxazine 725, 7-acetoxy-4-methyl coumarin, O-4-methylcoumarinyl-N-[3-(triethoxysilyl)-propyl] carbamate and 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein were introduced during the acid-catalyzed cohydrolysis of various molar ratios of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and the gel modifers, diethoxydimethylsilane (DEDMS) or diethoxymethylvinylsilane (DEMVS). The morphological features and optical absorption spectra of the resulting dye doped gels were followed during subsequent drying and heating. For DEDMS-TEOS molar ratios less than 1.375, gel cracking during drying was a problem. DEDMS-TEOS molar ratios greater than 2.750 yielded optically transparent monoliths, but did not allow for sufficient incorporation of dye to be useful. However, the functionalized dye, 0-4-methylcoumarinyl-N-[3-(triethoxysilyl)-propyl] carbamate, appeared to be significantly more soluble in such a highly modified matrix. Compared to matrices derived from pure TEOS the DEDMS or DEMVS modified matrices provided oxazine 725 doped with improved thermal stabilities. Finally, the 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein doped dimethylsiloxane-oxide matrix showed good thermal stability in its optical properties, having significant optical absorption and little change in the wavelength of the absorption maximum after heating to 300°C.
Making Sense of the Visual in Technical Communication: A Visual Literacy Approach to Pedagogy

We employ an array of terms to denote the visual; however, we have not yet agreed on a clear framework for understanding the function and relationship between visual concepts. I propose a literacy approach to the visual so that as educators, researchers, students, and practitioners, we acquire more than skills that rely on changing definitions and technologies but an intellectual faculty that provides the knowledge, understanding, and abilities that the visual affords. Through an analysis of arguments for visual instruction, I present the wayS in which scholars justify their claims about the visual. These arguments uncover the breadth and depth of the visual and contribute to a taxonomy of visual terminology.