cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A theory of medical decision making under uncertainty

This paper presents an axiomatic model of medical decision making and discusses its potential applications. The medical decision problems envisioned concern the choice of a medical treatment following a diagnosis in situations in which data allow construction of an empirical distribution over the potential outcomes associated with the alternative treatments. In its descriptive interpretation, the model is an hypothesis about the patient’s choice behavior. The theory also aims to aid physicians in recommending treatments in a coherent manner.
Ultrastructural changes in intersegmental cuticle during rotation of the terminal abdominal segments in a mosquito

Abstract The terminal abdominal segments of male Aedes aegypti rotate 180° within 24 hr after adult emergence, rotation occurring in the intersegmental membrane between abdominal segments VII and VIII. The ultrastructure of this rotating membrane is compared with non-rotating intersegmental membranes at different developmental stages. The deposition of cuticle in both the rotating and non-rotating intersegments appears ultrastructurally similar, and follows the sequential pattern described for other insects. Shortly after adult emergence, however, disruptive changes occur in the membrane cuticle that are more pronounced in non-rotating intersegments. This disruption occurs initially 1 hr after adult emergence and becomes maximal within 3 hr. Disruption appears to occur by the addition of fluid to the cuticle and results in a ten-fold increase in cuticle thickness in non-rotating intersegments but only a two-fold increase in thickness in the rotating intersegment. While in the disrupted condition, the non-rotating intersegmental membranes become extensively folded whereas the cuticle in the rotating intersegment becomes stretched. During rotation, strain forces in the rotating intersegment result in a reorientation of microfibers in the cuticle from parabolic to parallel. This reorientation is presumably brought about by plastic flow.
U.S. antitrust policy, interface compatibility standards, and information technology

To be a player in the international standards-setting arena of network industries, such as those dealing with information technology, reaching an early domestic consensus for a critical interoperable technology design is often essential. While in most cases efficient outcomes emerge through the market-driven, U.S. technology standards system, there have been situations where a timely consensus has failed to be attained with negative consequences for the international competitiveness of the U.S. economy (e.g., second generation of cellular telephony). An anticipatory policy approach, based on a standards competition which takes into consideration antitrust and intellectual property rights, is proposed as a solution.
Aerocolloid formation from semisolid materials exposed to sunlight.

Substances heretofore little considered, to these investigators' knowledge, may contribute significantly to urban atmospheric haze because they are exposed in great quantities to sunlight.
Lipidation by the Host Prenyltransferase Machinery Facilitates Membrane Localization of Legionella pneumophila Effector Proteins

The intracellular human pathogen Legionella pneumophila translocates multiple proteins in the host cytosol known as effectors, which subvert host cellular processes to create a membrane-bound organelle that supports bacterial replication. It was observed that several Legionella effectors encode a prototypical eukaryotic prenylation CAAX motif (where C represents a cysteine residue and A denotes an aliphatic amino acid). These bacterial motifs mediated posttranslational modification of effector proteins resulting in the addition of either a farnesyl or geranylgeranyl isoprenyl lipid moiety to the cysteine residue of the CAAX tetrapeptide. Lipidation enhanced membrane affinity for most Legionella CAAX motif proteins and facilitated the localization of these effector proteins to host organelles. Host farnesyltransferase and class I geranylgeranyltransferase were both involved in the lipidation of the Legionella CAAX motif proteins. Perturbation of the host prenylation machinery during infection adversely affected the remodeling of the Legionella-containing vacuole. Thus, these data indicate that Legionella utilize the host prenylation machinery to facilitate targeting of effector proteins to membrane-bound organelles during intracellular infection.
Computation of exchange probability in one-dimensional electron-hydrogen scattering.

We present numerical ab initio calculations for a quantum system that is a one-dimensional analog of electron-hydrogen scattering at low energies. This approach allows for an exact treatment of electron correlation. The exchange probability can be computed directly from the full unsymmetrized two-electron wave function. One can thus determine without approximation the relative importance of the direct versus the exchange process. We find that, in this low-energy regime, the exchange probability can be quite high and can exceed the probability of the direct process. We then take into account the exchange probability in a calculation of the single-electron effective potential for the free electron. \textcopyright{} 1996 The American Physical Society.
I Thought I Was the Adult in This House: Boundary Ambiguity for Parents Involved in the Foster Care System

ABSTRACT In this study, at-risk parents' perceptions of boundary ambiguity on involvement with child protective services were examined. The sample included 22 parents who were at risk for having their children placed in foster care. A mixed methods concurrent triangulation design was used, where both quantitative and qualitative data were collected, analyzed separately, and integrated when interpretations of the data were made. Qualitative results included themes of ambiguous loss and boundary ambiguity, family of origin factors, and indicators of family functioning. Quantitatively, the majority of families demonstrated signs of problematic family functioning and attachment. Implications for practitioners and researchers are discussed.
Effects of allogeneic bone marrow transplantation on recipient bone mineral density: A prospective study.

Abstract Allogeneic bone marrow transplant (BMT) recipients have many known risk factors for developing decreased bone mineral density (BMD) after transplantation. We performed a prospective sequential evaluation of BMD in the lumbar spine and nondominant hip using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) in a cohort of 47 adult patients (median age, 43 years) who were undergoing radiation-based BMT for hematologic malignancies. Baseline DEXA studies were performed before BMT and repeated at 3 to 4 months, 6 to 8 months, and 12 to 14 months after BMT. The majority of patients (60%) had been minimally treated with combination cytotoxic chemotherapy, having received no more than 1 treatment regimen before BMT. Graft-versus-host disease prophylaxis consisted of cyclosporine in combination with either methotrexate or prednisone, or both. Mean lumbar spine and hip BMD were normal before BMT (spine: 1.01 g/cm2, z score=96%; hip: 0.86 g/cm2, z score=100%) and gradually decreased (spine: 0.98 g/cm2, z score=94%; hip: 0.76 g/cm2, z score=91%) at 12 to 14 months. These declines were statistically significant (P Biol Blood Marrow Transplant 2000;6(3A):344-51.
Gas chromatographic method for the analysis of allelopathic natural products in rye (Secale cereale L.).

Accurate and reproducible methods for the analysis of plant allelochemicals are a requirement for the study of chemical interactions between plants. This paper describes a method for sample preparation and quantitative analysis of the allelopathic chemical content of rye (Secale cereale L.) using gas chromatography (GC). Sample preparation consists of extraction of freeze-dried rye vegetative tissue with aqueous ethanol followed by partitioning of the allelochemicals into ethyl acetate, evaporation, and derivatization using the trimethylsilylating reagent N-methyl-N-trimethylsilyltrifluoroacetamide. GC analysis of the silylated mixture was performed using flame ionization detection. This method permits analysis of all known rye allelopathic agents including 2,4-dihydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-one, its corresponding glucoside, 2-benzoxazolinone, β-hydroxybutyric acid, and β-phenyllactic acid. Identities of all compounds were confirmed by GC/MS analysis.
Long-slit ultraviolet spectroscopy of Comet Austin (1990 V)

The spatial distributions of the brightest features in the far-UV spectrum of Comet Austin were measured, and it is found that they are generally similar to those found for Comet Halley during two rocket observations in 1986. As in Halley, the CO profile can be fit to a radial outflow profile for a source whose size is smaller than the instrumental spatial resolution. Neither the shape nor the magnitude of the extended atomic carbon profiles, however, can be satisfactorily explained by the photodissociation of CO. No evidence is found for an extended source of CO in the coma; thus, suggestions that the additional carbon can come directly from grains are difficult to accept since Austin is a low-dust comet. The presence of the O I 1356 A feature implies that there is a photoelectron excitation source in the coma. The measured O I 1304 A distribution is consistent with H2O being the dominant source of oxygen in the coma. The atomic sulfur profile matches that expected for a daughter product of relatively short-lived parents.
Co(II) exchange into zeolites A and X from formamide solution depends upon water content

Ion exchange of Co(II) for Na+ was attempted at 23°C for zeolites A and X using solvents which ranged in composition from pure water to incompletely dried formamide. The results show that the extent of ion exchange is approximately proportional to the water content for [H2O]
Cystic fibrosis diagnosed via presentation of intussusception in childhood

Abstract The presentation of intussusception leading to the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis is rare, with only a limited number of cases previously reported in the literature. We encountered such a case which describes a unique clinical presentation of intussusception providing a broad discussion of the disease and its pathophysiology. Although statewide screening programs have been created, cystic fibrosis can still go undiagnosed until late childhood.
Sub-cellular distribution of the cytoplasmic myosin heavy chain mRNA during myogenesis.

In the light of earlier work [1] which demonstrated the presence of a large number of myosin heavy chain (MHC) transcripts in chick myoblasts prior to cell fusion and the burst of MHC synthesis it was of great interest to determine the subcellular localization of the still inactive transcripts. It has been determined in differentiating muscle cells in culture. Two populations of cells were examined - monucleated myoblasts just prior to cell fusion and myotubes where at least 80% of the cells were fused. Utilizing a myosin complementary DNA (cDNA) probe [2] it is observed that just prior to cell fusion, when the ‘burst” of myosin synthesis has not yet occurred, the vast majority of cytoplasmic myosin mRNA transcripts are found in a stored messenger RNA protein complex with a minimal amount found in the heavy polysome fraction. In differentiated myotube cultures, when myosin synthesis is progressing at a high rate, the reverse is found, i.e., the amount of stored myosin messenger RNA (mRNA) is minimal while the largest amount of myosin mRNA transcripts are localized in the polysome fraction. The number of total cytoplasmic myosin transcripts is found to decrease after cell fusion at a time when myosin synthesis is maximal suggesting that the efficiency of translation of myosin mRNA increases during terminal differentiation.
A waste effluent treatment system based on microbial mats for black sea bass Centropristis striata recycled-water mariculture

Abstract The objective of this project was to determine if a low-cost biosolar filter system, based on microbial mats and fluidized sand filters, could be used for a greenhouse recirculating black sea bass ( Centropristis striata ) mariculture project. Microbial mats are stratified microbial communities, composed of a complex of bacteria and dominated by photoautotrophic cyanobacteria, which can transform nitrogenous wastes into cellular protein and rapidly metabolize other fish wastes. The microbial mats also provided an excess of oxygen for the nitrifying bacteria on the fluidized sand filters, providing favorable conditions for ammonia removal. The filter system was altered after it was found that microbial mat surfaces became covered with fish wastes, which resulted in oxygen-production decreases and ammonia-concentration increases. The modification included delivering the fish wastewater under the mats, rather than on the surface, thus depositing solids beneath the photosynthetic surfaces. Instead of pellets, live tilapia ( Oreochromis sp.) juveniles were used as food which decreased the amount of solid wastes produced. Water and sludge from the fish tank were drained by gravity from the bottom of the fish tanks into the microbial mat trays at a rate of 7 l/min. Stable functioning mats provided high oxygen levels, supported the nitrifying bacteria and removed wastes produced by the black sea bass. Oxygen concentrations ranged from 6 to 10 mg/l and total ammonia concentrations remained below 1 mg/l. During the 9th month there was a steady fish growth, little buildup of solids and the fish tank remained clear. The mean weights of the 15 fishes increased from 161±45 to 215±72 g, and to 337±99 g after 2, 4, and 9 months, respectively.
Inventing Information Systems: The Systems Men and the Computer, 1950–1968

During the 1960s, many academics, consultants, computer vendors, and journalists promoted the “totally integrated management information system” (MIS) as the destiny of corporate computing and of management itself. This concept evolved out of the frustrated hopes of 1950s corporate “systems men” (represented by the Systems and Procedures Association) to establish themselves as powerful “generalist” staff experts in administrative techniques. By redefining the computer as a managerial “information system,” rather than a simple technical extension of punch-card “data processing,” the systems men sought to establish jurisdiction over corporate computing and to replace accountants as the primary agents of managerial control. The apparently unlimited power of the computer supported a new conception of information, defined as the exclusive domain of the systems men (assisted by operations research specialists and computer technicians). While MIS proved impossible to construct during the 1960s, both its dream of all-encompassing automated information systems and the resulting association of information with the computer endured into the twenty-first century.
Evaluation of liquid-metal jets as the conductor in a rep-rated, exploding-fuse opening switch

A repetitive, high-power opening switch technique for use in pulsed power applications using inductive energy storage is presented, along with data which demonstrate performance characteristics. This technique uses jets of a liquid conductor to replace the solid metal fuses in exploding-fuse opening-switch designs. High-power switching characteristics such as interrupt current, holdoff voltage, and resistance change are presented, along with information on how these characteristics change as jet length and circuit parameters are varied. A simulated load is used to demonstrate that exploding liquid-metal jets are feasible replacements for solid-fuse conductors in realistic applications. Likewise, the switching facility has been rep-rated in a two-pulse scenario to show its primary advantage over solid-fuse switches. The use of a high-speed camera to monitor the expansion of the mercury column upon vaporization is also described. Radial expansion velocities have been extracted from the images and are correlated with the electrical data.
The Experimenter's Foot-in-the-Door Self-Perception, Body Weight, and Volunteering

Subjects induced to perform a small favor, filling out a questionnaire, were more likely than subjects who did not fill out the questionnaire to perform a subsequent larger favor, volunteering for an experiment. However, as predicted by a self-perception analysis of the probable process, this result was observed only in normal weight subjects and not in overweights.
Do family planning programs affect fertility preferences? A literature review.

A literature review finds few studies about whether family planning programs have reduced fertility preferences. The strong and surprising evidence from Matlab Bangladesh demonstrated that this intensive program did not decrease preferences; however it did crystallize latent demand for fewer children resulting in a demand for contraception. One cross-national multivariate study was consistent with this finding. A few intracountry multivariate studies found small program effects decreasing the number of children that couples want. An intensive multimethod study in India found plausible larger effects. Most studies of program media effects are flawed by possible selection bias but one longitudinal study avoids this pitfall and finds large effects for one country. Program feedback effects are plausible but not yet demonstrated empirically. The effects of a coercive program are plausible at least in China but not definitively demonstrated. Several promising unpublished studies may strengthen the case for program effects in reducing fertility preferences now often based on plausible but not conclusive evidence. Stronger generalizations require better studies of a wider range of locations. (authors)
Transgenic Expression of Insulin-Response Element Binding Protein-1 in β-Cells Reproduces Type 2 Diabetes

Recent evidence supports the idea that insulin signaling through the insulin receptor substrate/phosphatidyl-inositol 3-kinase/Akt pathway is involved in the maintenance of β-cell mass and function. We previously identified the insulin-response element binding protein-1 (IRE-BP1) as an effector of insulin-induced Akt signaling in the liver, and showed that the 50-kDa carboxyl fragment confers the transcriptional activity of this factor. In this investigation we found that IRE-BP1 is expressed in the α, β, and δ-cells of the islets of Langerhans, and is localized to the cytoplasm in β-cells in normal rats, but is reduced and redistributed to the islet cell nuclei in obese Zucker rats. To test whether IRE-BP1 modulates β-cell function and insulin secretion, we used the rat insulin II promoter to drive expression of the carboxyl fragment in β-cells. Transgenic expression of IRE-BP1 in FVB mice increases nuclear IRE-BP1 expression, and produces a phenotype similar to that of type 2 diabetes, with hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, and increased body weight. IRE-BP1 increased islet type I IGF receptor expression, potentially contributing to the development of islet hypertrophy. Our findings suggest that increased gene transcription mediated through IRE-BP1 may contribute to β-cell dysfunction in insulin resistance, and allow for the hypothesis that IRE-BP1 plays a role in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes.
The march on Washington, 1963.

HUNDREDS OF DOCTORS, dentists, nurses, social workers, and other health professionals formed the medical contingent of the August 28, 1963, March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Many were inspired by this historic civil rights experience—particularly by the now famous “I have a dream” speech by the Rev Martin Luther King, Jr—to join demonstrations and other efforts to eliminate racism in the health field, first in the US South and then throughout the nation. This photograph was taken for the American Journal of Nursing and is in the Medical Committee for Human Rights Archive of the US Health Activism History Collection of the Institute of Social Medicine and Community Health, Philadelphia, Pa. The medical contingent of the March on Washington was organized by the newly founded Medical Committee for Civil Rights (which later evolved into the Medical Committee for Human Rights) and was sponsored by the National Medical Association, the National Dental Association, the Physicians Forum, the American Nurses Association, and the National Association of Social Workers, as well as by the 6 civil rights organizations that called the march. The chairman of the Medical Committee for Civil Rights was John (Mike) L. S. Holloman, Jr, MD, a general practitioner in Harlem and a member of the Board of Trustees of the National Medical Association; Paul B. Cornely, MD, professor of preventive medicine at Howard University Medical School, was the Washington coordinator for the medical contingent of the march. Dr Cornely was elected the first African American president of the American Public Health Association in 1968.
Efficiency in public schools: a case study in non-parametric measurement

This study illustrates the problem of efficiency measurement in stochastic input-output systems when market price data are unavailable. Efficiency comparisons by non-parametric methods are attempted for selected public elementary schools in California for 1976-77 and 1977-78. A suitable linear programming model is developed for the efficiency frontier in the input-output space, which is found to be significantly different from an average relation. This is shown to have important policy implications for improving input performance for better efficiency.
Dynamics of Quasi Two-Dimensional Colloidal Systems

In this paper we examine the asymptotic long time dynamics of quasi two-dimensional colloidal suspensions over a wide range of concentrations. At low concentrations the dynamics is determined by uncorrelated binary collisions among the constituent particles. These collisions among the particles lead to logarithmic corrections to the well-known linear growth in time of the mean squared displacement of the particles in the suspension. The self-scattering function of the suspension can be related to the mean squared displacement via the Gaussian approximation, which we examine in detail for systems of low concentration. At higher concentrations caging effects influence the dynamics of the suspension, which we account for by developing a formal mode coupling theory for colloidal systems from first principles. Equations for the dynamics of the memory functions that account for caging effects are derived and solved self-consistenly, for the case of instanteous hydrodynamic interactions, by utilizing the Gaussia...
Percutaneous catheterization of the axillary artery in the pediatric patient.

Arterial cannulation of the critically ill child is an essential technique in the ICU. Commonly used vessels in the pediatric patient are the radial, dorsalis pedis, posterior tibial, and femoral arteries. During circulatory insufficiency, however, the distal perfusion may be compromised and the establishment of arterial access is difficult. We herein report the use of axillary artery cannulation in pediatric patients as an alternative to cannulation of other, more conventional arteries
Advanced Turbine Technology Applications Project (ATTAP): Overview, Status, and Outlook

The ATTAP aims at proving the performance and life of structural ceramic components in the hot gas path of an automotive gas turbine engine. This Department of Energy (DOE)-sponsored, NASA-managed program is being addressed by a General Motors (GM) team drawing expertise from the Advanced Engineering Staff (AES) and from Allison. The program includes design, process development and fabrication, rig and engine testing, and iterative development of selected key ceramic components for the AGT-5 engine. A reference powertrain design (RPD) based on this engine predicts acceleration, driveability, and fuel economy characteristics exceeding those of both current engines and the DOE goals.A low-apsect-ratio ceramic turbine rotor design has been successfully engine-demonstrated at 2200°F and 100% speed, including survival of impact and other hostile flow path conditions. Turbine flow path components have been designed for the 2500°F cycle, using improved monolithic ceramics targeted for Year 2 fabrication. Major development/fabrication efforts have been subcontracted at Carborundum, GTE Labs, Corning Glass, Garrett Ceramic Components, and Manville. Feasibility studies were initiated with Ceramics Process Systems and Drexel University.Copyright © 1989 by ASME
Acute urinary retention due to a nonincarcerated retroverted gravid uterus.

A 25-year-old primigravid woman at 18 weeks’ gestation presented with acute urinary retention. Pelvic and rectovaginal examination revealed fullness in the posterior cul-de-sac. Bladder catheterization revealed a residual volume of 900 ml clear urine. Transvaginal ultrasonographic imaging is shown in Fig. 1. Uterine incarceration was suspected. No change in uterine polarity was noted after manual reduction under general anesthesia or colonoscopy-assisted rectosigmoid insufflation. As the suspicion for uterine incarceration still existed, a diagnostic laparoscopy was performed, which revealed a sharply retroverted, but freely mobile, uterus. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging is shown in Fig. 2. Despite normal urodynamic testing, the patient required placement of a no. 5 ring pessary in order to void. Thereafter, her pregnancy remained uneventful, and she vaginally delivered a healthy girl at 39 weeks. She had no urinary complaints at her postpartum visit 5 weeks later.
A Study of Hypotension (Shock) Produced by Meningococcus Toxin

Hemodynamic alterations were produced in dogs by injecting meningococcus toxin. Hypotension and a decrease in cardiac output occurred without significant reduction in blood volume. These changes were accentuated by small hemorrhage. Increasing the blood volume above normal led to marked increase in cardiac output with slight increase in arterial pressure. The arterial pressure was markedly increased by the administration of levarterenol but large doses were required. Cortisone did not modify the effect of meningococcus toxin on the circulation. Meningococcus toxin apparently produced its effect by increasing the volume of blood in small blood vessels.
Clogs in the bogus pipeline: Demand characteristics and social desirability

Jones and Sigall (1971) have advocated the use of a pseudophysiological monitoring device (the bogus pipeline) as a procedure to measure the “true” feelings of experimental subjects. A comparison of the bogus pipeline and a paper-and-pencil scale as measures of attraction indicated that the monitoring device is affected by experimenter demands among high social desirability (SD) subjects (p < .03) while the simple rating scale is not. Attraction to a stranger was determined solely by attitude similarity for high SD subjects using the paper-and-pencil measure and for low SD subjects in both measurement conditions. Use of the bogus pipeline in the typical attraction experiment thus would seem to be contraindicated. These results were discussed with respect to Ostrom's (1973) criteria of relative sensitivity and functional comparability of measurement techniques.
Solubilization of Receptors for Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone from GH4C1 Rat Pituitary Cells: Demonstration of Guanyl Nucleotide Sensitivity

TRH receptors have been solubilized from GH4C1 cells using the plant glycoside digitonin. Solubilized receptors retain the principal binding characteristics exhibited by the TRH receptor in intact pituitary cells and their membranes. The binding of the methylhistidyl derivative of TRH ([3H]MeTRH) attained equilibrium within 2–3 h at 4 C, and it was reversible, dissociating with a t½ of 7 h. Analysis of [3H]MeTRH binding to soluble receptors at 4 C yielded a dissociation constant (kd) of 3.8 nM and a total binding capacity (Bmax) of 3.9 pmol/mg protein. Peptides known to interact with non-TRH receptors on GH cells failed to interfere with the binding of [3H]MeTRH, indicating that the TRH binding was specific. Chlordiazepoxide, a competitive antagonist for TRH action in GH cells, inhibited TRH binding to soluble receptors with an IC50 of 11μM. When [3H]MeTRH was bound to membranes and the membrane proteins were then solubilized, we found enhanced dissociation of the prebound [3H]MeTRH from its solubilized r...
A Magnitude Estimation Scale for Human Values

This article describes the development and testing of a format for ratio magnitude estimation in the study of human values. This new format provides results which are free from the analytical const...
Determinants of sex allocation in a gynodioecious wild strawberry: implications for the evolution of dioecy and sexual dimorphism

One evolutionary pathway from plants with combined male and female functions (hermaphroditism) to those with separate sexes (dioecy) involves females coexisting with hermaphrodites (gynodioecy). The research presented here explores sex allocation in Fragaria virginiana (a gynodioecious wild strawberry), within the context of theory on the gynodioecy–dioecy transition. By growing clonally replicated plants in the greenhouse and surveying six populations in situ, I evaluated the effects of plant size, genotype, sexual identity, population of origin and female frequency on sex allocation. I found significant positive effects of plant size on most sex allocation traits studied. In addition to strong sex-specific allocation patterns, I found significant broad-sense heritabilities for all traits, suggesting that plants could respond to selection. Moreover, there was a negative genetic correlation between pollen production and fruit set per flower within hermaphrodites, lending support to a basic assumption of sex allocation theory. On the other hand, several sex allocation traits, namely pollen and ovules per flower in hermaphrodites, were positively genetically correlated, suggesting that they may act to constrain the evolution of sexual dimorphism. Populations differed in the frequency of females, and females were more prevalent on sites with lower soil moisture and where hermaphrodites were least likely to produce fruit, suggesting that females’ seed fitness relative to that of hermaphrodites may be strongly environment-dependent in this species.
Complete Burning and Extinction of a Carbon Particle in an Pxidizing Atmosphere

Abstract The departure from an equilibrium gas phase behavior is described in order to obtain the rate of mass loss M of a pure carbon particle immersed in an oxidizing atmosphere over a wide range of the Damkohler number Dg (representing either the particle size or the ambient pressure). For equilibrium flow (Dg →∞) complete burning of CO occurs at a flame sheet standing either adjacent to or at a certain distance of the particle. In the former case oxygen is not totally consumed and the burning rate M depends on both, the direct oxidation C + O2 and the indirect oxidation C + CO2. In the latter case oxygen does not reach the particle and M depends solely on the indirect oxidation. By lowering Dg and treating the flame as a thin but finite zone we establish the dependence of M on both heterogeneous reactions as well as on the homogeneous reaction CO + O2. The burning rate is reduced when Dg decreased and the flame moves towards the particle. This behavior persists until the critical Damkohler number Dg° ...
Selective inhibition of transcription by a nonhistone protein isolated from Ehrlich ascites tumor chromatin.

Abstract A nonhistone chromosomal protein isolated from Ehrlich ascites tumor cells that inhibits DNA-dependent RNA polymerase II reaction has been investigated with respect to its selective binding to DNA and specificity of its inhibitory characteristics. The inhibitory action of the nonhistone protein in vitro is enzyme specific, requiring a eucaryotic RNA polymerase, and is effective with native but not with denatured DNA template. The nonhistone protein interacts with, and inhibits the initiation of transcription from, only reiterated sequences in DNA. The protein does not inhibit transcription from chromatin. Step-wise removal of proteins from the chromatin, however, renders the protein-depleted chromatin increasingly responsive to the inhibitory action of the nonhistone protein.
Heat capacity of H 2 adsorbed on Ne and on D 2 preplated graphite

We have performed heat capacity measurement on H2 adsorbed on graphite preplated with either a monolayer of Ne or a monolayer of D2, to search for low temperature 2D liquid H2. We find evidence indicating that up to 80% of the Ne preplating is displaced by H2, followed by H2 growing on itself. This is in contrast to H2 on D2 preplated graphite in which H2 grows on D2 and possibly 2D liquid H2 exists down to 5.74K.
Dry-matter accumulation, partitioning, and development of alfalfa regrowth after stubble defoliation by the variegated cutworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).

The impact of stubble feeding by Peridroma saucia (Hubner) on alfalfa growth, development, and dry-matter partitioning during the second growth cycle was investigated in a 3-year study. Densities of more than six larvae per 0.1 m2 completely suppressed regrowth and caused significant delays in the development of subsequent regrowth. Lower densities only partly suppressed regrowth and did not consistently delay plant development. Larval damage produced large reductions in stem density during the first 2 to 3 weeks of regrowth, but these reductions were transitory and did not persist after the third week. Densities of 1.5 and 3 larvae per 0.1 m2 did not consistently affect growth rates or partitioning of subsequent regrowth; densities of ≥6 larvae per 0.1 m2 caused regrowth to produce stem height at a significantly faster rate. The rate of production of main-stem nodes was not affected, and the production of leaves per stem declined significantly. Larval damage also suppressed daily rates of dry-matter production. Most of this reduction, however, was caused by a reduction in the support component of growth. Leaf growth rate was not suppressed, and leaf area production actually increased in severely defoliated treatments. Damaged plants produced more leaf area per unit of total dry weight through relative increases in both leaf weight per unit of total dry weight and leaf area per unit of leaf weight. Damaged plants seemed to minimize the adverse effects of P. saucia stubble feeding by maintaining growth rates of leaves at the expense of support structures.
Visualizing multivalued data from 2D incompressible flows using concepts from painting

We present a new visualization method for 2d flows which allows us to combine multiple data values in an image for simultaneous viewing. We utilize concepts from oil painting, art, and design as introduced in [1] to examine problems within fluid mechanics. We use a combination of discrete and continuous visual elements arranged in multiple layers to visually represent the data. The representations are inspired by the brush strokes artists apply in layers to create an oil painting. We display commonly visualized quantities such as velocity and vorticity together with three additional mathematically derived quantities: the rate of strain tensor (defined in section 4), and the turbulent charge and turbulent current (defined in section 5). We describe the motivation for simultaneously examining these quantities and use the motivation to guide our choice of visual representation for each particular quantity. We present visualizations of three flow examples and observations concerning some of the physical relationships made apparent by the simultaneous display technique that we employed.
Distinguishing nanomaterial particles from background airborne particulate matter for quantitative exposure assessment

As the production of engineered nanomaterials quantitatively expands, the chance that workers involved in the manufacturing process will be exposed to nanoparticles also increases. A risk management system is needed for workplaces in the nanomaterial industry based on the precautionary principle. One of the problems in the risk management system is difficulty of exposure assessment. In this article, examples of exposure assessment in nanomaterial industries are reviewed with a focus on distinguishing engineered nanomaterial particles from background nanoparticles in workplace atmosphere. An approach by JNIOSH (Japan National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health) to quantitatively measure exposure to carbonaceous nanomaterials is also introduced. In addition to real-time measurements and qualitative analysis by electron microscopy, quantitative chemical analysis is necessary for quantitatively assessing exposure to nanomaterials. Chemical analysis is suitable for quantitative exposure measurement especially at facilities with high levels of background NPs.
INSULIN-LIKE GROWTH FACTORS AND THEIR RECEPTORS IN GROWTH

The IGFs are essential stimulators of fetal and postnatal growth. Their signals are mediated predominantly by the type I IGF receptor, but another as yet unidentified receptor seems to mediate some actions, especially some of those for IGF-II. During organogenesis, the actions of IGF-I seem to be local (autocrine/paracrine), because it, as well as IGFBPs and IGF receptors, are expressed coordinately in a highly tissue and developmentally specific fashion. IGF-I, however, most likely assumes endocrine functions during postnatal life and provides signals for GH and nutritional status. On the other hand, IGF-II may have only local growth-promoting functions, and its most essential actions may be restricted to in utero life. Both IGFs may be involved in regenerative organ growth, and their uncontrolled expression, especially that of IGF-II, may be involved in the formation of some tumors. The previous conclusions are drawn mainly from in vitro and animal experiments. Although they are generally consistent with data in humans, it is most likely incorrect to extrapolate to man all of the conclusions drawn from the experiments in mice. Differences in placentation are so marked between mice and humans that an exclusive role for IGF-II in human placental growth seems unlikely. On the other hand, it is reasonable to conclude that both IGFs are important stimulants of normal human fetal growth, that IGF-I is a more potent stimulator of human postnatal growth, and that the type I IGF receptor mediates most IGF actions in humans. The fact that no human growth disorders have been linked convincingly to lack of function mutations in IGF or IGF receptor genes suggests that such defects are lethal.
Listener Perception of Expressivity in Collaborative Performances Containing Expressive and Unexpressive Playing by the Pianist.

Listener perception of musical expression in collaborative performance was explored in this study. Performances of two duos (a violinist and pianist, and a vocalist and pianist) were recorded. The level of expressivity of the violinist and vocalist remained stylistically appropriate during pieces; however, the pianist alternated between very expressive and unexpressive playing during each performance. The piece performed by each duo contained approximately equal sections of expressive and unexpressive playing by the pianist, and listeners heard each piece twice with the sections juxtaposed. Sixty-six undergraduate and graduate music students turned a Continuous Response Digital Interface dial to indicate their ongoing perception of expressivity as they listened throughout each performance. Graphic analysis of listeners’ responses for both pieces illustrated that they differentiated between sections with expressive and unexpressive playing by the pianist. Statistical analysis revealed that sections in whic...
On the design of a digital blind feedforward, nearly jitter-free timing-recovery scheme for linear modulations

This letter deals with the compensation of the self-noise (jitter) in a nondata-aided (blind) feedforward symbol-timing estimator using two samples per symbol for linearly modulated waveforms transmitted through additive white Gaussian noise channels. The main contribution of this letter is the derivation of an appropriate prefilter to achieve nearly jitter-free digital blind feedforward timing recovery. Computer simulations illustrate that the proposed prefiltering scheme improves significantly the performance at mid and high signal-to-noise ratios.
Formation of the definitive endoderm in mouse is a Smad2-dependent process

TGFbeta growth factors specify cell fate and establish the body plan during early vertebrate development. Diverse cellular responses are elicited via interactions with specific cell surface receptor kinases that in turn activate Smad effector proteins. Smad2-dependent signals arising in the extraembryonic tissues of early mouse embryos serve to restrict the site of primitive streak formation and establish anteroposterior identity in the epiblast. Here we have generated chimeric embryos using lacZ-marked Smad2-deficient ES cells. Smad2 mutant cells extensively colonize ectodermal and mesodermal populations without disturbing normal development, but are not recruited into the definitive endoderm lineage during gastrulation. These experiments provide the first evidence that TGFbeta signaling pathways are required for specification of the definitive endoderm lineage in mammals and identify Smad2 as a key mediator that directs epiblast derivatives towards an endodermal as opposed to a mesodermal fate. In largely Smad2-deficient chimeras, asymmetric nodal gene expression is maintained and expression of pitx2, a nodal target, is also unaffected. These results strongly suggest that other Smad(s) act downstream of Nodal signals in mesodermal populations. We found Smad2 and Smad3 transcripts both broadly expressed in derivatives of the epiblast. However, Smad2 and not Smad3 mRNA is expressed in the visceral endoderm, potentially explaining why the primary defect in Smad2 mutant embryos originates in this cell population.
Dopamine induces apoptosis through an oxidation-involved SAPK/JNK activation pathway.

Dopamine (DA) is a neurotransmitter, but it also exerts a neurotoxic effect under certain pathological conditions, including age-related neurodegeneration such as Parkinson's disease. By using both the 293 cell line and primary neonatal rat postmitotic striatal neuron cultures, we show here that DA induces apoptosis in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Concomitant with the apoptosis, DA activates the JNK pathway, including increases in JNK activity, phosphorylation of c-Jun, and subsequent increase in c-Jun protein. This DA-induced JNK activation precedes apoptosis and is persistently sustained during the process of apoptosis. Transient expression of a dominant negative mutant SEK1(Lys → Arg), an upstream kinase of JNK, prevents both DA-induced JNK activation and apoptosis. A dominant negative c-Jun mutant FLAGΔ169 also reduces DA-induced apoptotic cell death. Anti-oxidants N-acetylcysteine and catalase, which serve as scavengers of reactive oxygen species generated by metabolic DA oxidation, effectively block DA-induced JNK activation and subsequent apoptosis. Thus, our data suggest that DA triggers an apoptotic death program through an oxidative stress-involved JNK activation signaling pathway. Given the fact that the anti-oxidative defense system declines during aging, this molecular event may be implicated in the age-related striatal neuronal cell loss and age-related dopaminergic neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases.
Built-in self-test structure for mixed-mode circuits

A built-in self-test (BIST) structure is presented which provides controllability and observability to analog circuits under test with significantly reduced hardware overhead compared to previously reported methods. The test structure is equally applicable to digital circuits, and lends itself to automated insertion into circuits under test. >
Strategic Alliance Temporalities and Partner Opportunism

The troubling potential for opportunistic behaviour in strategic alliances is acknowledged in both research and practice, and yet the antecedents of such opportunism remain largely unexplored in the literature. In this article we suggest that the inherent temporalities of alliances play significant roles in partner opportunism. We propose a model of potential partner opportunism that assigns antecedent and contingent roles to the temporal horizons of alliances and the temporal orientations of the member firms. We introduce the notion of alliance horizons and suggest that they are constituted by the temporal orientations of the member firms and a number of common alliance formation factors. We also discuss how these alliance horizons in conjunction with the temporal orientations of member firms result in different levels of potential opportunism. Lastly, we develop a number of propositions to facilitate empirical research on the temporal contingencies of partner opportunism and indicate directions for further studies.
Advances in Neuronal Cell Death 2007

In a stroke lesion, there is a core of necrotic cell death surrounded by a zone of tissue at risk, termed the penumbra. In the penumbra, there is usually less severe tissue damage. Programmed cell death (PCD) pathways have been documented to be present in the penumbra. While many studies have used the term apoptosis as equivalent to PCD, the absence of complete biochemical and morphological characteristics of apoptosis, coupled with the ineffectiveness of caspase inhibitors, indicates that there are other important cell death pathways activated during stroke. A few caspase-independent cell death pathways have been identified and there are likely more to be described. Stroke injury leads to the activation of a cell death program, dependent on poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP1) activation1 and culminating in apoptosis inducing factor (AIF) mediated cell death.2 Poly(ADP-ribose) (PAR) polymer is the death signal in this pathway and Thanatos is the Greek personification of death and mortality, hence, the name parthanatos. In this form of cell death that occurs in many different organ systems during ischemia-reperfusion injury, PAR polymer translocates from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and mitochondria. This leads to release of AIF from the mitochondria, an effect that is inhibited by poly(ADP-ribose) glycohydrolase (PARG), an enzyme that degrades PAR polymer.3 After cerebral focal ischemia reperfusion injury, mice with reduced PARG levels had higher infarct volumes than controls. On the other hand, mice overexpressing PARG had significantly lower infarct volumes. Combined, the current data indicate that PAR is a powerful death signal. What is not yet understood are the mechanisms of PAR translocation out of the nucleus and PAR-mediated AIF release from the mitochondria. Parthanatos is caspase-independent and is biochemically and morphologically distinct from apoptosis.4 Regulation of PAR signaling may be a useful therapeutic intervention to reduce stroke-mediated damage. Additional …
Spanish and, Not Versus, French

Author's Summary— A plea for care and sobriety, especially as regards Spanish and French, in assessment of comparative foreign-language values for American students.
Neural networks for classification: a survey

Classification is one of the most active research and application areas of neural networks. The literature is vast and growing. This paper summarizes some of the most important developments in neural network classification research. Specifically, the issues of posterior probability estimation, the link between neural and conventional classifiers, learning and generalization tradeoff in classification, the feature variable selection, as well as the effect of misclassification costs are examined. Our purpose is to provide a synthesis of the published research in this area and stimulate further research interests and efforts in the identified topics.