cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Both actin and myosin inhibitors affect spindle architecture in PtK1 cells: does an actomyosin system contribute to mitotic spindle forces by regulating attachment and movements of chromosomes in mammalian cells?

Immunocytochemical techniques are used to analyze the effects of both an actin and myosin inhibitor on spindle architecture in PtK1 cells to understand why both these inhibitors slow or block chromosome motion and detach chromosomes. Cytochalasin J, an actin inhibitor and a myosin inhibitor, 2, 3 butanedione 2-monoxime, have similar effects on changes in spindle organization. Using primary antibodies and stains, changes are studied in microtubule (MT), actin, myosin, and chromatin localization. Treatment of mitotic cells with both inhibitors results in detachment or misalignment of chromosomes from the spindle and a prominent buckling of MTs within the spindle, particularly evident in kinetochore fibers. Evidence is presented to suggest that an actomyosin system may help to regulate the initial and continued attachment of chromosomes to the mammalian spindle and could also influence spindle checkpoint(s).
Three dimensional representation workplace diagram on a microcomputer

Abstract This paper presents a simple but effective approach used for creating a three dimensional representation of a workplace diagram on a microcomputer. Typical system modeling software packages can only generate two dimensional workplace diagrams which are not practical for analyzing and enhancing most industrial workplaces. The use of color-coded symbols, as presented in this paper, make it possible to simulate a three dimensional workplace diagram of the system under study. This approach has proven to be a more efficient and effective way for representing or describing the actual industrial workplace to be analyzed. As a result, the corresponding valid system model can be easily constructed and finally, an effective solution for further system enhancement processes can be obtained.
Lateralized, nonepileptic convulsions in an adult with cerebral palsy: Case report and review of the literature ☆

The authors report a case of unilateral functional neurological symptoms (nonepileptic convulsions) in a 38-year-old man with mild, motor-predominant cerebral palsy. His convulsions are all lateralized to the same side as his paretic limbs. His episodes significantly decreased after several months of weekly psychodynamic-oriented psychotherapy. Functional neurological disorders have been rarely reported in children or adults with cerebral palsy. Among patients with brain injury, right-hemispheric brain disease may be more helpful than either handedness or the side of symptoms in clinically profiling patients with suspected functional disorders. This case raises biomechanistic questions about brain injury, the development of functional disorders, and the lateralization of functional symptoms.
Stemming frontline performance losses in service innovation implementation

Frontline processes are crucial in order to stem performance losses in service organizations. Using a frontline perspective, this article outlines the key factors that contribute to performance losses in the implementation of service innovations and identifies frontline mechanisms that help stem performance losses. By offering guidelines to organizations for designing frontline processes, the authors show how service innovations can be implemented in an effective and efficient way.
Hybrid Particle-in-Cell Erosion Modeling of Two Hall Thrusters

An axisymmetric hybrid particle-in-cell model of the Hall thruster plasma discharge has been upgraded to simulate the erosion of the thruster acceleration channel, the degradation of which is the main life-limiting factor of the propulsion system. Evolution of the thruster geometry as a result of material removal due to sputtering is modeled by calculating wall erosion rates, stepping the grid boundary by a chosen time step and altering the computational mesh between simulation runs. The code is first tuned to predict the nose cone erosion of a 200-W Busek Hall thruster, the BHT-200. Simulated erosion profiles from the first 500 h of operation compare favorably with experimental data. The thruster is then subjected to a virtual life test that predicts a lifetime of 1330 h, well within the empirically determined range of 1287-1519 h. The model is then applied to the BHT-600, a higher-power thruster, to reproduce wear of its exit ring configuration over 932 h of firing. Though some optimized code features remain the same, others need adjustment to achieve comparable erosion results. Better understanding of the physics of anomalous plasma transport and low-energy sputtering are identified as the most pressing needs for improved lifetime models.
An analysis of the current stability of the Dune Field at Great Sand Dunes National Monument using temporal TM imagery (1984-1998)

Abstract Research conducted at the Great Sand Dunes National Monument (37°46.5′N, 105°32.5′W) thus far has focused on dune composition in order to explain formation, dune migration to monitor aeolian processes, and dune extent to detect encroachment in the eastern periphery, a region that contains several visitor services. These studies used a series of field techniques in conjunction with aerial photography; however, modern satellite data, such as temporal TM imagery, were not used to track changes of the dunes. In this study, I used two TM images from 1984 and 1998 to examine changes in dune extent. A series of image enhancements, including edge enhancements were applied, and a supervised classification was conducted. Overall classification accuracies, based on ground truth data, ranged from 89% (1998) to 91% (1984). Over the study period, the amount of sand in the entire complex decreased in area by 416.4 ha, dune grass decreased by 487.5 ha, and a semidesert scrub category containing a mixture of bushes, taller grasses, and desert pavement increased by 1457.3 ha. Few changes in the extent and orientation of the main dune complex were observed; however, notable changes were observed in the periphery. On the western side of the complex, dune grass is slowly being converted to scrub; as a result, the extent of exposed sand is decreasing. On the eastern side, dune grass and scrub are increasing, succeeding upon the dunes. These results demonstrate the stability of the main dune complex and suggest that dune migration in the periphery is no longer a concern.
Manufacturing aspects of low pressure chemical-vapor-deposited TiN barrier layers

Abstract The growth in the number of applications of TiN in recent years has put increasing demands on the performance of TiN films. The use of TiN films in applications such as contact barriers, glue layers and sidewall spacers is discussed, integration issues are considered, and future requirements of devices incorporating TiN films are suggested.
Nearwork, school achievement and myopia.

Data from 723 families tested for ocular refraction, measures of cognitive ability and school achievement, and measures of school-related nearwork activity were analysed, to examine the association of nearwork and intellectual ability with the development of myopia. The basis of the tests was detection of heterogeneity of standardized regression coefficients, derived from the regression of spherical refraction on age, between scaled nearwork or achievement measures. The results did not provide any evidence in support of the hypothesis that nearwork influences myopia but did confirm a relationship between school grades and myopia.
Error consistency and the evaluation of treatment outcomes

The consistency/variability of error substitution patterns may hold important implications for subgrouping children with speech disorders, as well as for relationships between learning and generalization patterns. There is a need to quantify and examine the range of consistency/variability within the speech disordered population as it relates to system‐wide change. This investigation compared two groups of preschool children (N = 10 each) differing in the consistency/variability of errors on a variety of pre‐treatment and treatment outcome measures. The Error Consistency Index (ECI), a measure of error variability across the entire phonological system, was used to identify groups at the extreme ends of the ECI distribution from a larger participant pool. Each participant was treated on three target singletons from among obstruents /s, z, f, ∫, t∫, k, g/ and liquids /l, r/ and change on these targets, as well as their generalization to untrained positions was assessed. Although there were significant diffe...
Rapid Exploration of Phase Behavior in Surfactant Systems Using Flow in Microchannels

The paper describes a study for the determination of the phase behavior of a self-assembling dilute aqueous cetyl trimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and dodecyl benzene sulfonic acid (HDBS) system using flow in microchannels. The diffusional length scales of ∼10−100 μm and volumes on the order of a few tens of nanoliters allow fast composition and temperature homogeneity compared to “bulk” experiments, where characteristic volumes and length scales are on the order of milliliters and centimeters, respectively. Fluorescence emission of a polarity-sensitive fluorophore was used with the surfactants for phase characterization. To demonstrate the validity of the new approach, the critical micelle concentrations (cmc) for CTAB and HDBS were first shown to agree with the cmc obtained in the literature under bulk conditions. Subsequently, the microstructures of dilute (less than 0.8 wt % total surfactant) aqueous mixtures of CTAB and HDBS were examined. The range of desired concentrations and accurate flow dilutio...
Zero-n Photonic Band-Gaps in Binary Photonic Crystal Superlattices

We demonstrate that photonic superlattices of alternating layers with positive refractive index and photonic crystals with negative effective refractive index, present a photonic gap at frequencies where the spatial average of the refractive index vanishes.
Automating the loading of business process data warehouses

Business processes drive the operations of an enterprise. In the past, the focus was primarily on business process design, modeling, and automation. Recently, enterprises have realized that they can benefit tremendously from analyzing the behavior of their business processes with the objective of optimizing or improving them. In our research, we address the problem of warehousing business process execution data so that we can analyze their behavior using the analytic and reporting tools that are available in data warehouse environments. We build upon our previous work that described the design and implementation of a generic process data warehouse for use with any business processes. In this paper, we show how to automate the population of the generic process warehouse by tracking business events from an application environment. Typically, the source data consists of event streams that indicate changes in the business process state (i.e., progression of the process). The target schema is designed to allow querying of task and process execution data. The core of our approach for processing progression data relies on the construction of generic templates that specify the semantics of the event streams extraction and the subsequent transformations that translate the underlying IT events into business data changes. Using this extensible template mechanism, we show how to automate the construction of mappings to populate the generic process warehouse using two-levels of mappings that are applied in two-phases. Interestingly, our approach of using ETL technology for warehousing process data can be seen the other way around. An arbitrary ETL process can be modeled as a business process. Hence, we describe the benefit of modeling ETL as a business process and illustrate how to use our approach to warehouse ETL execution data, and to monitor and analyze the progress of ETL processes. Finally, we discuss implementation issues.
Two‐dimensional dynamic analysis of concrete gravity and embankment dams including hydrodynamic effects

An analysis procedure in the frequency domain is developed for determining the earthquake response of two-dimensional concrete gravity and embankment dams including hydrodynamic effects; responses of the elastic dams and compressible water are assumed linear. The dam and fluid domain are treated as substructures and modelled with finite elements. The only geometric restriction is that an infinite fluid domain must maintain a constant depth beyond some point in the upstream direction. For such an infinite uniform region, a finite element discretization over the depth is combined with a continuum representation in the upstream direction. The fluid domain model approximately accounts for interaction between the fluid and underlying foundation medium through a damping boundary condition applied along the reservoir bottom, while the dam foundation is assumed rigid. Several examples are presented to demonstrate the accuracy of the fluid domain model and to illustrate dam responses obtained from the analysis procedure.
Dizinc alkoxides and amides supported by binucleating bis(amidoamine) ligands.

Several new dizinc complexes that are supported by dianionic bis(amidoamine) ligands are reported. Reaction of N,N‘-bis(2-dimethylaminoethyl)dibenzofuran-4,6-diamine (MeLH2) with 2 equiv of EtZn(OiPr) forms the dizinc bis(alkoxide) MeLZn2(OiPr)2 (1), which was isolated in 76% yield. Similarly, MeLH2 reacts cleanly with EtZn(OPh) and EtZn(OCHPh2) to form MeLZn2(OPh)2 (2) and MeLZn2(OCHPh2)2 (3), respectively. The solid-state structures of 1 and 2 feature puckered [Zn2(μ-OR)2]2+ cores, with short intermetal separations (2.81−2.88 A). Overall, the molecules have approximate (noncrystallographic) C2v symmetry. The use of the more-hindered iPr-substituted ligand N,N‘-bis(2-diisopropylaminoethyl)dibenzofuran-4,6-diamine (iPrLH2) to prepare zinc alkoxides gave similar results. Thus, reaction of iPrLH2 with 2 equiv of EtZn(OPh), EtZn(OMe), EtZn(OCHPh2), and EtZn(OCH2Ph) forms iPrLZn2(OPh)2 (4), iPrLZn2(OMe)2 (5), iPrLZn2(OCHPh2)2 (6), and iPrLZn2(OCH2Ph)2 (7), respectively (isolated yields 48−63%). At 70 °C, C6D6...
Long-term follow-up of fat injection laryngoplasty for unilateral vocal cord paralysis.

Objective The objective of the study was to evaluate the results of autologous fat injection laryngoplasty in the long-term management of unilateral vocal cord paralysis. Study Design A retrospective chart review and clinical voice re-evaluation of patients treated for unilateral vocal cord paralysis with autologous fat injection at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics (Iowa City, IA) between May 1992 and September 1999. Methods The data analyzed included patient demographics, early and long-term vocal outcomes, additional surgical treatments, and patient survival. Results Fifty patients were treated with fat injection laryngoplasty, which included 44 treated for unilateral vocal cord paralysis. Thirty-one of the patients had fat injection as their primary procedure for permanent voice restoration. Eight patients treated had preoperative and postoperative voice data available. Using the GRBAS subjective voice assessment scale (0, normal; 3, severely abnormal), mean grade improved from 2.1 to 1.3 and breathiness improved from 1.4 to 0.5, at a mean period of 52 days. Thirteen of the 31 patients (41%) required additional procedures to achieve acceptable vocal outcomes. The median time to failure for these patients was 163 days. The initial treatment failure rate at 2 years was 30%, and the rate reached 45% by 4 years. Conclusion Although fat injection laryngoplasty reliably improves the voice over the short term, the long-term voice outcome is unpredictable. Additional surgeries to deal with subsequent vocal deterioration are common. The role of autologous fat injection laryngoplasty in the modern era is limited.
Temporal variability of uranium concentrations and 234U/238U activity ratios in the Mississippi river and its tributaries

Abstract 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios and total dissolved uranium concentrations in the Lower Mississippi River at New Orleans, LA have been analyzed on a bi-weekly basis over 2003–2004. During this time period, the range in 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios is approximately 17% (from 1.241 to 1.473), while uranium concentrations span an even greater range of 130% (0.28 to 1.33 ppb). There is no correlation between uranium activity ratio and discharge, and only a very weak correlation between uranium concentration and discharge. In order to examine the cause of the substantial variability in the lower river concentrations and 234 U/ 238 U activity ratios, we sampled the four major tributaries of the Mississippi River (Ohio, Missouri, Upper Mississippi, and Arkansas Rivers). Each river was sampled four times, each time representing a unique discharge season. In general, lithological and climatological parameters in the tributary sub-basins exert the greatest control on Lower Mississippi River uranium concentration and isotope signatures. These parameters may also be influenced by groundwater infiltration below the confluences of the major tributaries. Our temporal analysis suggests that if one were to estimate Mississippi River uranium fluxes to the ocean based on single-point sampling during 2003–2004, significant over- or under-estimations of these values would ensue. Our two-year average Mississippi River uranium-flux values suggest that previous best estimates of the contribution of Mississippi River uranium to the global average riverine 234 U/ 238 U activity ratio are too high by 36%. If other major world rivers are as poorly constrained with respect to uranium systematics as the Mississippi River, then the global average riverine U flux and 234 U/ 238 U activity ratio need to be revised.
Efficacy and Safety of Naltrexone Use in Pediatric Patients with Autistic Disorder

Objective:To review the efficacy and safety of naltrexone in pediatric patients with autistic disorder (AD).Data Sources:Using the terms pediatric, child, naltrexone, autism, and autistic disorder, a literature search was performed using MEDLINE (1966–May 18, 2006) and the International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1971–May 18, 2006) database. The references of these articles were scanned for additional relevant literature.Study Selection and Data Extraction:All articles describing or evaluating the efficacy and/or safety of naltrexone in pediatric patients with AD were included in this review. Three case reports, 8 case series, and 14 clinical studies were identified as pertinent.Data Synthesis:Naltrexone has been used most commonly at doses ranging from 0.5 to 2 mg/kg/day and found to be predominantly effective in decreasing self-injurious behavior. Naltrexone may also attenuate hyperactivity, agitation, irritability, temper tantrums, social withdrawal, and stereotyped behaviors. Patients may also exhibit ...
Characterization of the adenosinetriphosphatase and transport activities of purified cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator.

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) functions in vivo as a cAMP-activated chloride channel. A member of the ATP-binding cassette superfamily of membrane transporters, CFTR contains two transmembrane domains (TMDs), two nucleotide-binding domains (NBDs), and a regulatory (R) domain. It is presumed that CFTR couples ATP hydrolysis to channel gating, and as a first step in addressing this issue directly, we have established conditions for purification of biochemical quantities of human CFTR expressed in Sf9 insect cells. Use of an 8-azido[α-32P]ATP-binding and vanadate-trapping assay allowed us to devise conditions to preserve CFTR function during purification of a C-terminal His10-tagged variant after solubilization with lysophosphatidylglycerol (1%) and diheptanoylphosphatidylcholine (0.3%) in the presence of excess phospholipid. Study of purified and reconstituted CFTR showed that it binds nucleotide with an efficiency comparable to that of P-glycoprotein and that it hydrolyzes ...
Effect of surfactant protein A on granular pneumocyte surfactant secretion in vitro

Surfactant secretion by lung type II cells occurs when lamellar bodies (LBs) fuse with the plasma membrane and surfactant is released into the alveolar lumen. Surfactant protein A (SP-A) blocks secretagogue-stimulated phospholipid (PL) release, even in the presence of surfactant-like lipid. The mechanism of action is not clear. We have shown previously that an antibody to LB membranes (MAb 3C9) can be used to measure LB membrane trafficking. Although the ATP-stimulated secretion of PL was blocked by SP-A, the cell association of iodinated MAb 3C9 was not altered, indicating no effect on LB movement. FM1-43 is a hydrophobic dye used to monitor the formation of fusion pores. After secretagogue exposure, the threefold enhancement of the number of FM1-43 fluorescent LBs (per 100 cells) was not altered by the presence of SP-A. Finally, there was no evidence of a large PL pool retained on the cell surface through interaction with SP-A. Thus SP-A exposure does not affect these stages in the surfactant secretory pathway of type II cells.
Comprehension Grammars Generated from Machine Learning of Natural Languages

We are developing a theory of probabilistic language learning in the context of robotic instruction in elementary assembly actions. We describe the process of machine learning in terms of the various events that happen on a given trial, including the crucial association of words with internal representations of their meaning. Of central importance in learning is the generalization from utterances to grammatical forms. Our system derives a comprehension grammar for a superset of a natural language from pairs of verbal stimuli like Go to the screw! and corresponding internal representations of coerced actions. For the derivation of a grammar no knowledge of the language to be learned is assumed but only knowledge of an internal language. We present grammars for English, Chinese, and German generated from a finite sample of about 500 commands that are roughly equivalent across the three languages. All of the three grammars, which are context-free in form, accept an infinite set of commands in the given language.
Quadratic programming algorithms for ensemble models

Ensemble models, such as bagging, random forests, and boosting, have better predictive accuracy than single classifiers. These ensembles typically consist of hundreds of single classifiers, which make future predictions and model interpretation much more difficult than for single classifiers. Recently, research efforts have been directed toward improving ensembles by reducing their size while increasing or maintaining their predictive accuracy. In this article, we review recently proposed methods based on quadratic programming techniques for accomplishing these goals. WIREs Comput Stat 2013, 5:41–47. doi: 10.1002/wics.1237
Chips ahoy: gene expression in failing hearts surveyed by high-density microarrays.

Organ-level heart failure can result, most obviously, from the death of cardiac myocytes; such death can occur either acutely (with infarction) or more sporadically (in chronic disease). Both types of death can involve a “cell suicide” pathway known as apoptosis.1 Another key factor for cardiac dysfunction is myocardial fibrosis, which can be, in part, a direct consequence of angiotensin II levels; therefore, a possible benefit of therapy with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors is an improvement in fibrosis. A third generic mechanism for defects in macroscopic or clinically evident cardiac performance arises from changes in the intrinsic mechanical properties of individual cardiac muscle cells.2 This phenomenon is understood to occur, in part, through changes in the expression of cardiac genes, both subtle and overt, which are collectively referred to as the hypertrophic gene “program.”3 Reprogramming cardiac gene expression encompasses, among its other features, alterations in (1) contractile proteins of the sarcomere, (2) regulators of calcium handling and other aspects of ion transport, and (3) secreted growth factors and cytokines. Therefore, in pursuit of potential targets for therapy, 2 important aspects of contemporary heart failure research are to discover the signaling pathways that confer adverse responses3 4 and to establish a much more comprehensive understanding of the end-organ changes that actually occur. In the current issue of Circulation , Yang et al5 performed a mammoth screen for altered gene expression in heart failure using a newly developed technology, high-density DNA microarrays.6 Although conceptually simple, these assays …
Out-of-core simplification of large polygonal models

We present an algorithm for out-of-core simplification of large polygonal datasets that are too complex to fit in main memory. The algorithm extends the vertex clustering scheme of Rossignac and Borrel [13] by using error quadric information for the placement of each cluster's representative vertex, which better preserves fine details and results in a low mean geometric error. The use of quadrics instead of the vertex grading approach in [13] has the additional benefits of requiring less disk space and only a single pass over the model rather than two. The resulting linear time algorithm allows simplification of datasets of arbitrary complexity.In order to handle degenerate quadrics associated with (near) flat regions and regions with zero Gaussian curvature, we present a robust method for solving the corresponding underconstrained least-squares problem. The algorithm is able to detect these degeneracies and handle them gracefully. Key features of the simplification method include a bounded Hausdorff error, low mean geometric error, high simplification speed (up to 100,000 triangles/second reduction), output (but not input) sensitive memory requirements, no disk space overhead, and a running time that is independent of the order in which vertices and triangles occur in the mesh.
A Mechanism and Simple Dynamical Model of the North Atlantic Oscillation and Annular Modes

A simple dynamical model is presented for the basic spatial and temporal structure of the large-scale modes of intraseasonal variability and associated variations in the zonal index. Such variability in the extratropical atmosphere is known to be represented by fairly well-defined patterns, and among the most prominent are the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and a more zonally symmetric pattern known as an annular mode, which is most pronounced in the Southern Hemisphere. These patterns may be produced by the momentum fluxes associated with large-scale midlatitude stirring, such as that provided by baroclinic eddies. It is shown how such stirring, as represented by a simple stochastic forcing in a barotropic model, leads to a variability in the zonal flow via a variability in the eddy momentum flux convergence and to patterns similar to those observed. Typically, the leading modes of variability may be characterized as a mixture of ‘‘wobbles’’ in the zonal jet position and ‘‘pulses’’ in the zonal jet strength. If the stochastic forcing is statistically zonally uniform, then the resulting patterns of variability as represented by empirical orthogonal functions are almost zonally uniform and the pressure pattern is dipolar in the meridional direction, resembling an annular mode. If the forcing is enhanced in a zonally localized region, thus mimicking the effects of a storm track over the ocean, then the resulting variability pattern is zonally localized, resembling the North Atlantic Oscillation. This suggests that the North Atlantic Oscillation and annular modes are produced by the same mechanism and are manifestations of the same phenomenon. The time scale of variability of the patterns is longer than the decorrelation time scale of the stochastic forcing, because of the temporal integration of the forcing by the equations of motion limited by the effects of nonlinear dynamics and friction. For reasonable parameters these produce a decorrelation time of the order of 5‐10 days. The model also produces some long-term (100 days or longer) variability, without imposing such variability via the external parameters except insofar as it is contained in the nearly white stochastic forcing.
Efficient Storage Allocation of Large-Scale Extendible Multi-dimensional Scientific Datasets

Data analyses in scientific domains involve storage, retrieval, processing and visualization of large scale multidimensional datasets. The datasets incrementally grow by appending new data to the dataset without reorganizing the already allocated data storage. The datasets, typically modeled as k-dimensional arrays, are maintained in files where the array elements are allocated in a sequence of consecutive storage locations according to some ordering of an array mapping function. Such mapping functions limit the degree of extendibility of the arrays to one dimension only. To allowing new data elements to be appended to the dataset effectively implies allowing for the arbitrary extendibility of the array. We present a mapping function Fscr*(), that uses additional O(klogEscr) storage, where Escr is the number of array segments appended. The function is realized with approximately the approximately the same order of complexity as a conventional array function. The algorithm presented for addressing elements of datasets in extendible multi-dimensional array files apply equally well to addressing memory resident extendible arrays
Energy harvesting using AC machines with high effective pole count

In this paper, we investigate ways to improve the power conversion of small, rotating, permanent magnet AC machines at low rotor speeds in energy harvesting applications. One method is to increase the pole count, which increases the generator back-emf without also increasing the I2R losses, thereby increasing both torque density and conversion efficiency. One machine topology that has a high effective pole count is a hybrid stepper motor. The impedance due to the large self inductance of these machines can be cancelled by capacitors in series with the stepper output. A circuit was designed and implemented to automatically vary the series capacitance over the entire speed range investigated. The addition of the series capacitors improved the power output by up to 700%. The results obtained for the stepper were compared to those of a DCPM brushed motor of a similar size, and results confirm that high-pole-count topologies, and specifically the hybrid stepper configuration, are an attractive choice for energy harvesting applications.
Drug-Delivery Systems for Tunable and Localized Drug Release

Drug-delivery systems can be designed to provide localized drug release with a variety of customizable release profiles. Passive systems enable sustained, zero-order release for days or weeks, while remotely triggered systems enable the timing and dose of drug release to be controlled by the patient or physician. Release profiles can be engineered to match the requirements of particular ailments. We review on-demand drug-delivery systems that release a therapeutic in response to magnetic, near-infrared, or UV fields; such systems could extend the capabilities of sustained release systems by incorporating programmed dosing regimens.
Estimating price compensation requirements for eco-certified forestry

Eco-certified forestry (ECF) is defined as forest management that incorporates ecological concerns into commercial timber production. In this paper, we link the adoption of ECF practices to shifts in the timber supply function. We use a spatially disaggregated model of southeastern US timber supply to simulate the empirical relationship between variations in the price premium offered for timber produced under ECF regimes and producer surplus-maximizing rates of ECF. The simulation results suggest that a large share of nonindustrial private timber suppliers in the region may have relatively small compensation requirements, but complete adoption by the sector would require a large premium. © 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.
Voltammetric Characterization of Redox-Inactive Guest Binding to LnIII[15-Metallacrown-5] Hosts Based on Competition with a Redox Probe

A novel competitive binding assay was implemented to monitor the binding of a redox inactive substrate to a redox inactive metallacrown host based on its competition with ferrocene carboxylate (FcC(-)) using cyclic voltammetry (CV). First, the binding of FcC(-) to Ln(III)[15-MC(Cu(II),N,L-pheHA)-5] (LnMC) hosts was characterized by cyclic voltammetry. It was shown that the voltammetric half wave potentials, E(1/2), shifted to more positive potentials upon the addition of LnMC. The explicit dependence of E(1/2) with the concentration of LnMC was used to determine the association constants for the complex. The FcC(-) binding strength decreased with larger central lanthanide metals in the LnMC hosts, and substantially weaker binding was observed with La(III). X-ray crystallography revealed that the hydrophobic host cavity incompletely encapsulated FcC(-) when the guest was bound to the nine-coordinate La(III), suggesting the LnMC's ligand side chains play a substantial role in guest recognition. With knowledge of the MC-FcC(-) solution thermodynamics, the binding affinity of a redox inactive guest was then assessed. Addition of sodium benzoate to a LnMC and FcC(-) mixture resulted in E(1/2) shifting back to the value observed for FcC(-) in the absence of LnMC. The association constants between benzoate and LnMC's were calculated via the competitive binding approach. Comparison with literature values suggests this novel assay is a viable method for determining association constants for host-guest systems that exhibit the proper electrochemical behavior. Notably, this CV competitive binding approach does not require the preparation of a modified electrode or a tethered guest, and thus can be generalized to a number of host-guest systems.
Games, Risks, and Analytics: Several Illustrative Cases Involving National Security and Management Situations

This paper presents and compares four models of games and risk analyses designed to support strategic and policy decisions, three focusing on national security issues and one on project management. They share a common core of probability, linked decisions among the parties involved, and risks to a principal decision maker. Their structure is based on systems and decision analysis. Their level of complexity depends on the strategies, the environment, and assumptions of variation over time of probabilities, preferences, and options. They are part of the field of analytics and some of its real-life applications. The first model is based on a one-move game, in which the United States faces risks of terrorist attacks by several possible groups using various types of weapons. The result is a probabilistic ranking, at a given time, of the threat posed by these weapons. The second model is a dynamic simulation of counterterrorism scenarios in an alternate game between a government and a terrorist group. The objective is to compare the stabilizing effects of different short-and long-term government strategies. The third model is a dynamic evaluation of nuclear counterproliferation strategies involving an analysis of the weapon development program of a particular country with evolving intent and capabilities and of the effectiveness of different U.S. strategies to prevent or delay its success. The fourth model is a principal--agent representation of the development of an engineered system, in which an agent in charge of part of the project may consider meeting a deadline by cutting corners if he falls behind schedule, generally increasing the system failure probability. The goal is to support the decisions of the manager in setting constraints and incentives. This paper shows how a set of similar game and risk analysis models at different levels of complexity can provide valuable insights to decision makers, both in national security and management situations, and help them avoid mistakes such as excessive focus on the short term and underestimation of dependencies. It compares their capabilities, including the number of moves, dynamics of the underlying situation, possible changes of context, actors' preferences and strategic options, and risk characterization.
Identifying plant traits associated with topographic contrasts in a rugged and diverse region (Klamath‐Siskiyou Mts, OR, USA)

Rugged topography affects species distributions and community composition by creating contrasting mesic (cool, moist) and xeric (warm, dry) microclimates on adjacent slopes. This microclimatic heterogeneity is thought to have contributed to species survival during past climate fluctuations. Within a rugged and botanically rich region, we asked what functional, distributional, and/or biogeographic traits distinguished the species significantly associated with xeric or mesic microclimates. For each of 236 species in 4773 plots in the Klamath-Siskiyou Mountains, we tested for significant associations with mesic or xeric topographic microclimates inferred from high-resolution topographic variables. For the subset of species showing significant associations, we then compared their functional traits, biogeographic origins, and macroclimatic attributes to those of other species. We also tested the dependence of topographic associations on elevation, canopy cover, and soil type. Many species in the region (40%) showed significant tendencies to be found only in either mesic or xeric topography. ‘Mesic’ species tended to be of northern biogeographic origin and to have geographic ranges with higher mean precipitation; ‘xeric’ species had the opposite attributes. Species occurred more often in mesic microclimates when they occurred on low-nutrient serpentine soils, and were more often found in xeric microclimates at high elevations. Functional traits such as specific leaf area were not significant predictors of species association with topographic microclimate. Biogeographic origins and the mean precipitation (rather than temperature) of species geographic ranges are the best indicators of species that are found in cool/moist northerly or hot/dry southerly microclimates.
Foreign Intervention and Global Public Bads

A growing literature focuses on the “global public goods” generated by foreign interventions. Global public goods have traditional public good characteristics, but their benefits extend across societies and regions. We analyze how well-intentioned foreign interventions to provide global public goods can also result in global public bads. These bads emerge through the dynamics of unintended consequences resulting from knowledge constraints on policymakers designing interventions. Case studies of foreign interventions in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Afghanistan and Pakistan are provided as evidence and illustrate some of the main public bads that can emerge from intervention.
Effects of age and photoperiod on reproduction and the spleen in the marsh rice rat (Oryzomys palustris)

To examine the interactions between age and photoperiod on reproduction and spleen weights, we exposed adult male and female rice rats of various ages to photoperiods of 16:8-h light-dark photoperiods (16L:8D) or 12L:12D. After 10 wk, animals were killed and the following data were recorded: weights of testes, seminal vesicles, uterus, ovaries, body, and spleen and, in addition, vaginal patency. Young adult males displayed a greater degree of testicular and seminal vesicle regression in short photoperiods than did older males; the testes of most older males did not regress in response to short photoperiods. Spleen weight was unresponsive to short photoperiods in all males, but was affected by age. Females, however, exhibited reproductive organ regression and decreased vaginal patency in response to short photoperiods at all ages examined. Body weights were affected by photoperiod in young females, and, as in males, photoperiod had no effect on spleen weights. These data suggest that the reproductive response to photoperiod in adult male rice rats declines with age, whereas in adult females it does not.
Maternal smoking causes fetal hypoxia: Experimental evidence

Cigarette smoking during pregnancy has been related to poor perinatal outcome. To investigate the changes in maternal and fetal arterial blood gases associated with smoking, five chronically catheterized pregnant rhesus monkeys were exposed to standard cigarette smoke (N=5) and nicotine-free herbal cigarette smoke (N=3). The only consistently reproducible and significant finding was a drop in fetal Po 2 . The timing of the decline in Po 2 and the similar responses to standard and nicotine-free cigarette smoke make carboxyhemoglobin the most likely causative factor.
White House, Congress Rethink National Earthquake Strategy

For federal policy makers, the devastating 1994 Northridge and 1995 Kobe earthquakes were powerful and costly reminders of the need for an effective national earthquake strategy. This need is further supported by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimates that the population in the most seismically active regions of the United States will double by the year 2010. Given the immense cost of earthquakes and other natural disasters, both the Clinton Administration and Congress have been considering ways to improve this country's current strategy. Last fall, both the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), through the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), and the Congressional Office of Technology Assessment (OTA) released reports on this issue, and FEMA released its first ever national mitigation strategy for all natural hazards. In addition, Congress has begun to consider legislation to revise the existing National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) and retool...
Quantitative analysis of the coverage density of Br- ions on Pd{100} facets and its role in controlling the shape of Pd nanocrystals.

We report an approach based on a combination of inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy for quantitative analysis of the role played by Br– ions in the synthesis of Pd nanocrystals. The Br– ions were found to adsorb onto Pd{100} facets selectively with a coverage density of ca. 0.8 ion per surface Pd atom. The chemisorbed Br– ions could be removed via desorption at an elevated temperature under reductive conditions. They could also be gradually released from the surface when Pd cubic seeds grew into cuboctahedrons and then octahedrons. On the basis of the coverage density information, we were able to estimate the minimum concentration of Br– ions needed for the formation of Pd nanocubes with a specific size. If the concentration of Br– ions was below this minimum value, not all of the {100} facets could be stabilized by the capping agent, leading to the formation of nanocubes with truncated corners. The quantitative analysis developed in this study is potentially ...
A Return to Civility: Roger Williams and Public Discourse in America

The presidential election of 2000 was remarkable in the razor-thin margin that ultimately separated electoral victor from the defeated can didate, yet in another way the contest was disappointingly ordinary, namely, in the uncivil tone that characterized both major party cam paigns. Divisive rhetoric, negative characterizations, and "contests of shortcomings" in place of "comparisons of strengths" now dominate American politics, and the past presidential race was no different. With the end of this especially protracted contest, however, we also heard calls for a new political tone, a return to civility. In his televised concession, former Vice-President Al Gore proposed a renewal in co operative spirit. Insisting "what remains of partisan rancor must now be put aside," Gore left the political stage by signaling his commitment to civility and by calling "all who stood with [him] to unite behind our next president."1 Bush accepted Gore's concession with a similar wish for rejuvenated civility, with Puritan-like rhetoric (or Reagan-esque language, more accurately) declaring that "we have discussed our dif ference [sic]; now it is time to find common ground and build consen sus to make America a beacon" for the world.2
The cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor flavopiridol induces apoptosis in human leukemia cells (U937) through the mitochondrial rather than the receptor-mediated pathway.

The cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor flavopiridol induces apoptosis in human leukemia cells (U937) through the mitochondrial rather than the receptor-mediated pathway
Quantitative Assessment of Transient Frequency Deviation Security Considering Cumulative Effect

Based on the analysis of latest development and requirements of frequency deviation security assessment,a new method is proposed to quantitatively assess transient frequency deviation security by taking into account the frequency deviation cumulative effect.The new security margin index is defined by frequency deviation and its duration.It has unified formulation and clear physical implication for either secure or unsecure conditions.The index has a number of advantages such as good monotonicity,good smoothness,and low computational cost.A search strategy for critical active power control actions is designed based on sensitivity analysis.The characteristics of the proposed security margin index are analyzed in detail with a provincial power system example.The validity of the search strategy is tested and verified as well.
Comparison of β-Glucuronidase and Indole-Based Direct Plating Methods for Enumerating Escherichia coli in Artificially Inoculated Ground Meats.

Peptone tergitol glucuronide (PTG) agar containing 4-methylumbelliferyl-β-D glucuronide (MUG) (for β-glucuronidase activity), the Holbrook, Anderson, Baird-Parker (HABP) method (for detecting indole production), and the standard 3-tube most probable number (MPN) method were compared with plate count agar (PCA) for enumerating three strains of unstressed Escherichia coli artificially inoculated into ground beef and chicken at 1-6 × 106 cells/g. No significant difference (P>0.05) was determined between PTG agar and PCA in the recovery of E. coli . The MPN method enumerated a significantly greater (P 0.05) was obtained with ground beef. When combining all data from chicken and beef, the recovery of E. coli cells by the HABP method was also significantly lower (P<0.05). Overall, based on the enumeration of E. coli on PCA, the HABP method, PTG agar, and MPN method recovered 57, 102, and 144%, respectively.
Toxic Crimes: Examining Corporate Victimization of the General Public Employing Medical and Epidemiological Evidence

This article examines the issue of corporate harm and violence using evidence from medical literature and related studies that focus on the health consequences associated with toxic waste, pesticide and dioxin exposure. These studies provide a useful alternative measure of the harms produced by corporate crimes of violence that are unmeasured in more traditional sources of data. Further, the kinds of health consequences associated with modern industrial production of toxic waste products can be thought of as “criminal” in the broadest sense since alternative, nontoxic methods of production are often available. Examples of these alternative methods of production are provided, along with a discussion of the impact current practices have on minority health.