cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Landscape structure, zoning ordinance, and topography in hillside residential neighborhoods: A case study of Morgantown, WV

Abstract The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship among landscape structure, zoning ordinance, and geographic attributes in Morgantown, West Virginia. Two residential areas zoned by different standards, but with similar development history and socioeconomic status were examined. Aerial photography was digitized into woody and non-woody areas and the landscape structure was quantified with six core landscape metrics related to fragmentation. Computer aided design (CAD) map and digital elevation model (DEM) were used for the calculation of building footprint and geographical characteristics respectively. The findings indicate that differences in zoning requirements result in distinct landscape structure. Zoning requirements for smaller minimum lot size and lot frontage result in more vegetation but also result in more fragmentation than requirements that call for greater minimum lot size and lot frontage. Although building footprint is weakly associated with landscape structure, lot size and lot perimeter are strongly related to vegetation abundance, fragmentation, and dominance. Slope is associated with vegetation patch size, especially in hilly residential neighborhoods. This study provides a better understanding of how human and environmental factors are related to residential landscape structure at different scale. Providing numerous quantitative metrics is useful for understanding social and ecological benefits. The results of this study will help planners, landscape architects, and administrators for planning and designing more ecologically and socially sustainable neighborhoods.
Design feasibility via ascent optimality for next-generation spacecraft

Abstract This paper deals with the optimization of the ascent trajectories for single-stage-sub-orbit (SSSO), single-stage-to-orbit (SSTO), and two-stage-to-orbit (TSTO) rocket-powered spacecraft. The maximum payload weight problem is studied for different values of the engine specific impulse and spacecraft structural factor. The main conclusions are that: feasibility of SSSO spacecraft is guaranteed for all the parameter combinations considered; feasibility of SSTO spacecraft depends strongly on the parameter combination chosen; not only feasibility of TSTO spacecraft is guaranteed for all the parameter combinations considered, but the TSTO payload is several times the SSTO payload. Improvements in engine specific impulse and spacecraft structural factor are desirable and crucial for SSTO feasibility; indeed, aerodynamic improvements do not yield significant improvements in payload. For SSSO, SSTO, and TSTO spacecraft, simple engineering approximations are developed connecting the maximum payload weight to the engine specific impulse and spacecraft structural factor. With reference to the specific impulse/structural factor domain, these engineering approximations lead to the construction of zero-payload lines separating the feasibility region (positive payload) from the unfeasibility region (negative payload).
Effect of hypophysectomy early in proestrus on the viability of ova in maturing follicles.

IN THE preceding paper (Talbert, Meyer, and McShan, 1951) a study was made of the effect of hypophysectomy at the beginning of proestrus on the ability of mature follicles to ovulate in response to an intravenous injection of chorionic or pituitary gonadotrophin. That investigation was extended to include a study of histological changes which occur in maturing follicles following removal of the pituitary gland. It was determined in this study that mature follicles lose their ability to ovulate within 8 to 12 hours following hypophysectomy at the beginning of proestrus but no histological changes were detected until 19 hours following the operation. At this time a definite increase in pyknotic granulosa cell nuclei was noted but degenerative changes in the ova in these follicles were not apparent until many hours later. Although the ova appeared by histological examination to be normal 6 to 8 hours following hypophysectomy
US and Chinese Strategic Trade Policies and Product Differentiation in the ASEAN Apple Market

ABSTRACTWe investigate oligopolistic competition between US and Chinese apple exporters in the ASEAN market using strategic trade theory and the NEIO literature. We also analyze competition in the US and Chinese domestic markets. The US supplies higher quality apples to ASEAN than China, resulting in product differentiation. The results show that US exporters had a higher markup than Chinese exporters through the 1990s; however, as the share of Chinese apples expanded, the US markup declined and the Chinese markup increased dramatically. Competitive pricing prevails both in the US and Chinese domestic markets.
Microinjection of cholecystokinin into the rat ventral tegmental area potentiates dopamine-induced hypolocomotion.

Cholecystokinin, (CCK) 1-400 ng, significantly potentiated the hypolocomotion induced by dopamine, when simultaneously microinjected bilaterally into the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of rat brain. Within this dose range, CCK had no effect alone on ambulatory locomotion. Topographical analysis indicated that the modulatory effect of CCK was greatest in the central and caudal regions of the VTA, and absent at sites lateral, dorsal, rostral, and caudal to the VTA. Pharmacological analysis indicated that both unsulfated CCK octapeptide (100 ng) and the C-terminal tetrapeptide of CCK (400 ng) potentiated dopamine-induced hypolocomotion in a manner identical with sulfated CCK octapeptide (100 ng). Proglumide, an antagonist of the peripheral-type CCK receptor, did not block the potentiating actions of CCK, at doses of proglumide up to 500 mg/kg i.p., or 100 micrograms into the ventral tegmental area. L-364,718, an antagonist of the peripheral-type CCK receptor with lesser affinity for the central-type CCK receptor, blocked the potentiating actions of CCK at relatively high doses of L-364,718 (1-10 mg/kg i.p.). These findings suggest that CCK acts as a facilitatory modulator of dopamine at a central-type CCK receptor on the A10 cell bodies.
An efficient heuristic for solving stochastic assembly line balancing problems

Abstract This paper investigates the problem of assigning tasks to work stations in assembly lines when there exists variability in processing assembly tasks. For such a stochastic assembly line balancing problem, an efficient heuristic is developed based on the fact that there is a feasible cycle time at which the expected total cost (the sum of normal operating cost and incompletion cost) becomes a minimum. The heuristic provides an optimal task assignment with such a cycle time. The heuristic also searches for a proper work allowance at each work station for any given cycle time and variability, and suggests an appropriate task allocation.
Cyclic pursuit in a multi-agent robotic system with double-integrator dynamics under linear interactions

We investigate the controlled realization of a stable circular pursuit model in a multi-agent robotic system described by double-integrator dynamics with homogeneous controller gains. The dynamic convergence of the system starting from a randomly chosen, non-overlapping initial configuration to a sustained, stable pursuit configuration satisfying velocity matching and uniform inter-agent separation is demonstrated using the proposed control framework. The cyclic pursuit configuration emerges from local, linear, inter-agent interactions and is shown to be robust under stochastic perturbations of small and moderate intensities. The stability criterion discussed in this work is independent of the number of agents, permitting dynamic addition/deletion of agents without affecting overall system stability. Experimental results that validate the key theoretical results are also presented. Potential applications of the results obtained include cooperative perimeter tracking and resource distribution applications such as border patrol and wildfire monitoring.
Food chemistry and chemophobia

Chemophobia is the exaggerated fear of anything ‘chemical’ which is found quite widespread both in the Western world and in Asia. That food incontrovertibly is chemistry seems to require regulation of all sorts. As we will see below, that would truly necessitate gargantuan determination exceeding every regulatory effort to date. Worse, it will be futile. Our food is peppered with natural compounds such as organohalogens, dioxins, aflatoxins, and many others. These we will briefly discuss, including their natural whereabouts. Overall, the aim of this paper is to show that food is chemistry beyond our immediate control, including those synthetic chemicals that are deemed to be artificial and should not be found in ‘safe’ food. The latter is an overestimation of regulatory competence and an underestimation of nature to produce most unlikely chemicals in unlikely places, including our food.
MUTATION FREQUENCY DECLINE IN ESCHERICHIA COLI. II: KINETICS SUPPORT THE INVOLVEMENT OF TRANSCRIPTION-COUPLED EXCISION REPAIR

Mutation frequency decline (MFD) in Escherichia coli was examined to demonstrate repair of targeting photoproducts during the post-UV incubation required in this process. Repair of mutation-targeting cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (T C) was demonstrated when a correlation was established between the mutation frequency normally associated with these lesions and the rate of mutation production at these lesions by spontaneous deamination of cytosines and photoreversal in ung-defective cells. An incubation producing a decline in mutation frequency, i.e., MFD, also produces lower rates of mutation increase via the deamination mechanism. Since the latter assay involves processes entirely within the post-UV incubation period, the lower rates are attributed to rapid transcription-coupled nucleotide excision repair (TCR) that reduces the number of relevant T C dimers during this period. Rediscovery of the neglected fact that MFD can be stimulated by post-UV incubation in buffer alone is part of the analysis. Results presented here and a variety of others are discussed to support a model of MFD as a particular example of TCR: effective repair of photoproducts in the transcribed DNA strand that target glutamine tRNA suppressor mutations occurs during the appropriate post-UV incubation and is responsible for MFD.
Measurement of local convective heat transfer coefficients using three-dimensional interferometry

Abstract The reconstruction of the three-dimensional temperature distribution above a horizontal heated disk in air is used to determine the local heat transfer coefficients. Holographic interferometry is used to obtain instantaneous, three-dimensional information on the local index of refraction distribution. Several reconstruction procedures are tested under the constraints of limited field of view and limited fringe order data. These techniques are used to accurately measure the instantaneous local temperature distribution. Subsequently, the surface temperature gradients are specified by curve fitting procedures and the local heat transfer coefficients determined. The surface averaged Nusselt number agrees very well with previous studies in the literature. Real time holographic interferometry is also used to suggest some of the dynamic characteristics of the convective heat transfer process. Results show local instabilities in the form of distributed bursting of thermal energy from the surface. Also, at sufficiently high surface temperatures the entire temperature field shows evidence of oscillation or pulsation which indicates a global heat release mechanism.
Three‐dimensional, nonhydrostatic numerical simulation of nonlinear internal wave generation and propagation in the South China Sea

[1] We present the results of three-dimensional, nonhydrostatic simulations of internal tides and waves in the South China Sea (SCS) using the SUNTANS model. Model results accurately predict the observed wave arrival times at two mooring locations in the SCS. Internal wave amplitudes are underpredicted which causes underprediction of internal wave speeds due to a lack of amplitude dispersion. We show that the well-known A and B waves arise from the steepening of semidiurnal internal tides that are generated due to strong barotropic flow over ridges in the Luzon Strait. A wave generation is stronger in the southern portion of the Luzon Strait because diurnal internal tidal beams augment the amplitude of the semidiurnal A waves. B wave generation is stronger in the northern portion where the distance between the eastern and western ridges is approximately equal to one internal tidal wavelength and leads to semidiurnal internal tidal resonance. The orientation of the ridges produces large A waves that propagate into the northern portion of the western SCS basin and stronger B waves that propagate into the southern portion. When traced back in time along linear characteristics, A waves consistently line up close to peak ebb (eastward) barotropic currents, while B waves consistently line up with peak flood (westward) barotropic currents. This reinforces the notion that the lee wave mechanism and associated hydraulic or nonlinear effects are weak, as demonstrated by a simple linear model relating the amplitude of the simulated waves to the excursion parameter at the ridges.
Chemosensory signaling in C. elegans.

The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans can sense and respond to hundreds of different chemicals with a simple nervous system, making it an excellent model for studies of chemosensation. The chemosensory neurons that mediate responses to different chemicals have been identified through laser ablation studies, providing a cellular context for chemosensory signaling. Genetic and molecular analyses indicate that chemosensation in nematodes involves G protein signaling pathways, as it does in vertebrates, but the receptors and G proteins involved belong to nematode-specific gene families. It is likely that about 500 different chemosensory receptors are used to detect the large spectrum of chemicals to which C. elegans responds, and one of these receptors has been matched with its odorant ligand. C. elegans olfactory responses are also subject to regulation based on experience, allowing the nematode to respond to a complex and changing chemical environment.
Dynamic phase of the electromagnetic field.

The quantum state of the electromagnetic field produced by a known current distribution consists of a coherent state multiplied by a time-dependent phase factor. This nonclassical phase factor includes a dynamic component that vanishes in the quasistatic limit of slowly varying currents. The dynamic phase of the field is observable in electron interferometer experiments, where it can substantially modify the Aharonov-Bohm (AB) effect when retardation effects are significant. An alternative interpretation of the AB effect in which half of the usual phase shift is associated with the test particle while the other half occurs in the source of the external field is suggested. Any geometric interpretation of the dynamic phase would require Hamiltonians that are nonphysical in nature which may have implications for the concept of geometric phases in general.
Periodontal tissue responses after insertion of artificial crowns and fixed partial dentures

Abstract Purpose. The purpose of this review was, first, to critically evaluate published evidence on the effects of artificial crowns and fixed partial dentures (FPDs) on adjacent periodontal tissue health, and second to synthesize this evidence into meaningful summaries. Restoration qualities that contribute to inflammatory responses were identified based on strength of evidence, and variables that should be controlled in future investigations were outlined. Such information is necessary to accurately predict the prognosis of periodontal tissues adjacent to crowns or FPDs. Methods. Clinical trial and epidemiologic evidence published in English was collected. The effects of crowns or FPDs on gingival inflammation, probing depths, and bone loss were evaluated based on accuracy of measurement, reliability of measurement, and/or appropriateness of data analysis. Results. Crowns and FPDs increased the incidence of advanced gingival inflammation adjacent to restorations, particularly if restorations had intracrevicular finish line placement, poor marginal adaptation, or rough surfaces. However, because of the limitation in the accuracy and reliability of probing depth measurements, reports of greater mean probing depths of crowned teeth, which tended to be less than 1 mm greater than control teeth, should be questioned. Finally, crowns and FPDs in general did not accelerate the rate of adjacent bone loss. Conclusion. Clinically deficient restorations, as well as clinically acceptable restorations, can contribute to gingival inflammation. However, with the limitations of the applied methods of measurement, current evidence has not shown an increased attachment loss adjacent to crowns or FPDs. Future trials should document periodontal health before therapy and periodically after restoration insertion so that each tooth serves as its own control. In future studies, the periodontal disease history of the patient, the influence of the restoration on plaque formation, and the composition of the crevicular microflora must be recorded. (J Prosthet Dent 2000;84:492-8.)
Coherent broad-band decoupling—An alternative to proton noise decoupling in carbon-13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy

Abstract Phase modulation of the decoupler carrier frequency with a 50% duty cycle square wave is shown to be an efficient method for broad-band decoupling. Experimental and theoretical studies show that this coherent broad-band decoupling is more effective than random noise decoupling for many applications. In the particular case of proton decoupled carbon-13 NMR spectroscopy, coherent broad-band decoupling is the method of choice because it is more efficient and is simpler to apply than random noise decoupling. Signal/noise improvements by a factor of 2 or more are observed because of the better decoupling even when the resolution is limited by computer criteria.
Solving weak transduction with EM

Abstract In this paper we describe an algorithm designed for learning perceptual organization of an autonomous agent. The learning algorithm performs incremental clustering of a perceptual input under reward. The distribution of the input samples is modeled by a Gaussian mixture density, which serves as a state space for the policy learning algorithm. The agent learns to select actions in response to the presented stimuli simultaneously with estimating the parameters of the input mixture density. The feedback from the environment is given to the agent in the form of a scalar value, or a reward , which represents the utility of a particular clustering configuration for the action selection. The setting of the learning task makes it impossible to use supervised or partially supervised techniques to estimate the parameters of the input density. The paper introduces the notion of weak transduction and shows a solution to it using an EM-based framework.
Integral Europe: Fast‐Capitalism, Multiculturalism, Neofascism

Integral Europe: Fast-Capitalism, Multiculturalism, Neofascism. Douglas R. Holmes. Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2000. xiii. 253 pp., notes, bibliography, index.
Role of disease in energy balance in children.

Nutritional stress can be caused by increased energy demands or inadequate caloric intake. In the absence of food shortage, disease is often a significant contributory factor in promoting nutritional stress. In children, the interaction of nutrition and disease is more difficult to assess than in adults because deficits in growth and development have both a determining and consequential role in defining energy needs. This paper presents a framework for examining the role of disease in energy balance in children and gives three examples of disease-energy balance interactions. Resting and total energy expenditure (REE and TEE) and growth and body composition were measured in children with spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy (SQCP) and cystic fibrosis (CF) and compared to normal children. Different patterns of energy balance emerged, with REE and TEE being lower in children with SQCP, and REE being higher in children with CF compared to controls. Clinical evaluations of REE in patients evaluated for failure-to-thrive and obesity indicated substantial variability in energy requirements relative to predicted values. These disease models demonstrate that the effect of disease on energy balance in children is diverse. Further studies quantifying the components of energy balance are needed to understand the mechanisms of nutritional adaptation during growth and development under the broad range of human conditions. © 1996 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Robot manipulator kinematic compensation using a generalized jacobian formulation

The kinematic error compensation of robot manipulators is at present being attempted by improving the precision of the nominal robot kinematic parameters. This paper addresses the problem of kinematic compensation using a new mathematical joint model proposed to account for shortcomings in existing methods. The corrected manipulator transformation is formulated in terms of “generalized Jacobians”: relating differential errors at the joints to the differential change in the manipulator transformation. The details of application are discussed for a particular industrial manipulator.
The International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care Web Site

The Web site of the International Association for Hospice and Palliative Care is reviewed. The Association newsletter, resources, links, access to the IAHPC Manual of Palliative Care 2nd Edition, frequently asked questions, and other useful information are provided on this site.
Obtaining Content Weights for Test Specifications From Job Analysis Task Surveys: An Application of the Many-Facets Rasch Model

This article discusses the use of the Many-Facets Rasch Model, via the FACETS computer program (Linacre, 2006a), to scale job/practice analysis survey data as well as to combine multiple rating scales into single composite weights representing the tasks’ relative importance. Results from the Many-Facets Rasch Model are compared with those calculated from the Rasch Rating Scale Model (RRSM) (Spray & Huang, 2000) using two examples of actual job analysis data from diverse professions. In addition, this article proposes a solution for establishing the origin of the percentage scale when transferring the task importance weights from a logit unit into percentage weights. Although the resulting test specifications from the two compared methods are not radically different, a case is made that the use of the Many-Facets Rasch Model with a zero point based on the frequency rating scale provides a more justifiable basis for combining multiple rating scales and transforming task survey data. In addition, this study ...
Associations of coping strategies with diary based pain variables among Caucasian and African American patients with osteoarthritis

The purposes of this study are to examine the associations between pain coping strategies and daily diary-based pain measures and to determine whether these associations differed by race (African American and Caucasian). Primary care patients from the Durham Veterans Affairs and Duke University Medical Centers (N = 153) with hand, hip, or knee osteoarthritis (OA) completed electronic pain diaries on a one-weekend day and one weekday. The maximum, range (maximum minus minimum pain), and area under the curve (AUC) of joint pain ratings were calculated. Pain coping (Coping Strategies Questionnaire (CSQ) coping attempts, catastrophizing, and praying/hoping subscale scores) was assessed prior to diary entries and at the end of each diary day (total, problem-focused, and emotion-focused scores from Stone and Neale's Daily Coping Inventory). Pearson correlations between pain variables and coping measures were examined. Linear mixed models were fit including age, race, weekend/weekday, study enrollment site, education level, pain medication use, self-rated health, Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales affect and function subscales, and interactions of coping measures with race and weekend day/weekday status. Correlations between coping and pain measures were 0.12–0.45. In adjusted models, maximum pain and pain range were associated with all three diary-based coping measures; maximum pain was associated with CSQ coping attempts; and AUC was associated with CSQ praying/hoping. Interactions were not significant. Among participants with OA, pain coping strategies were related to important aspects of the pain experience, particularly pain range and maximum pain. However, race did not modify associations of pain coping strategy use and the pain experience.
Formal Synthesis of (-)-Clavepictine A and (+)-Clavepictine B from a Sulfinimine (N-Sulfinylimine)-Derived Chiral Building Block.

A concise formal asymmetric synthesis of the cytotoxic marine alkaloids clavepictines (-)-A and (+)-B is achieved by employing the chiral building block (I) as the starting material.
Directed steroid chlorination catalyzed by an ion-paired template

Abstract 3-α-Cholestanyltrimethylammonium cation is catalytically chlorinated by iodobenzenesulfonate anions wiht geometric control and catalytic turnover of the template anion. Steroid sulfates with cationic templates also show directed catalysis.
Enantioselective sensors based on antibody-mediated nanomechanics.

The use of microfabricated cantilevers as bioaffinity sensors was investigated. Since many bioaffinity interactions involve proteins as receptors, we conducted studies of the magnitude, kinetics, and reversibility of surface stresses caused when common proteins interact with microcantilevers (MCs) with nanostructured (roughened) gold surfaces on one side. Exposure of nanostructured, unfunctionalized MCs to the proteins immunoglobulin G and bovine serum albumin (BSA) resulted in reversible large tensile stresses, whereas MCs with smooth gold surfaces on one side produced reversible responses that were considerably smaller and compressive. The response magnitude for nanostructured MCs exposed to BSA is shown to be concentration dependent, and linear calibration over the range of 1−200 mg/L is demonstrated. Stable, reusable protein bioaffinity phases based on unique enantioselective antibodies are created by covalently linking monoclonal antibodies to nanostructured MC surfaces. The direct (label-free) stere...
Structural organization of α-satellite DNA in a single monkey chromosome

Abstract The organization of α-satellite sequences in a single monkey chromosome has been studied by restriction endonuclease analysis and molecular cloning. A somatic cell hybrid containing the monkey chromosome was isolated by cloning after fusion of the mouse L-cell line B82 (thymidine kinase minus) with primary African green monkey kidney cells and selective growth in HAT medium. Unlike the mouse cells, the hybrid cells contain DNA that hybridizes with the α-satellite DNA of the monkey. The presence of a single α-satellite containing monkey chromosome was demonstrated by Giemsa-11 staining and by the absence of both this chromosome and monkey α-satellite DNA sequences in cells after back-selection in bromodeoxyuridine. Hybridization of restriction endonuclease-digested hybrid cell DNA with a cloned segment of African green monkey α-satellite DNA showed distinctly different patterns from those observed with monkey total DNA. In particular, Eco RI and Hae III restriction endonuclease sites are much more abundant in the satellite sequences in the thymidine kinase-carrying chromosome than they are in total satellite. A library of hybrid DNA was constructed in a λ bacteriophage. Analyses of purified recombinant phage that hybridized with α-satellite also indicated an abundance of Eco RI and Hae III sites. Of nine phage studied in detail, no two showed identical distributions of the two restriction sites in the α-satellite sequences, suggesting the independent evolution of different domains within the single chromosome. These results indicate that the thymidine kinase-carrying chromosome contains distinct subsets (domains) of the α-satellite DNA of the whole monkey genome and further, that while the satellite sequence on the single chromosome is distinctive, it is also complex.
Use of complementary health practices by prostate carcinoma patients undergoing radiation therapy.

BACKGROUND There has been increasing interest in complementary health practices among patients, popular media, and even institutional health care providers. However, there is still surprisingly little information on the use of alternative medicine by patients undergoing treatment for prostate carcinoma. METHODS A prospective study of 50 consecutive patients undergoing radiation treatment for prostate carcinoma at a tertiary care referral center was conducted. Patients were surveyed after the initiation of radiation therapy whether they had used complementary health practices at any time. RESULTS The authors found that a surprisingly high proportion of patients (37%) relied on complementary health practices not prescribed by physicians. In contrast, according to a separate survey of the treating physicians, the physicians believed that on average only 4% of their patients resorted to such practices. The use of complementary health practices usually continued even after the initiation of definitive treatment for prostate carcinoma. Patients who used complementary health practices tended to have higher levels of education and income, whereas there were no differences in age, religion, perception of health status, stage of prostate carcinoma, or prostate specific antigen level. Herbal remedies were the most frequently utilized, by 60% of those using complementary health practices, followed by old-time remedies (47%), high dose vitamins (41%), chiropractic/massage therapy and relaxation techniques (18% each), and special diets (12%). CONCLUSIONS Patients undergoing radiation therapy for prostate carcinoma frequently rely on complementary health practices not prescribed by their treating physicians. Patients who do so tend to have higher education and income levels and continue their complementary practices during the conventional treatment. As the health implications of these practices are unclear, further research is clearly needed. Cancer 2000;88:615–9. © 2000 American Cancer Society.
JONATHAN N. LIPMAN, Familiar Strangers: A History of Muslims in Northwest China, Studies on Ethnic Groups in China (Seattle: University of Washington Press, 1997). Pp. 302. $22.50 paper.

Chinese Muslims, known today as the Hui and during the 19th century as Dungans, present a particular problem for a historian. Why should Chinese-speaking believers in Islam constitute a separate ethnic group when believers in other religions of foreign origin (Buddhism and Christianity, for example) do not? Did Chinese Muslims have a common history across China, or has one been created for them because they are now labeled an ethnic minority group (minzou) in the People's Republic of China? Jonathan Lipman begins his history by challenging the whole notion of the “Hui” as an ethnic group, which he argues in his Introduction has been taken as an unproblematic category by both Chinese and Western scholars. Lipman prefers the term “Sino-Muslim” to “Hui” to emphasize the reality that these Muslims are and have been Chinese in culture for centuries and to distinguish them from non–Chinese-speaking Muslim groups in China.
The statistical performance of an MCF-7 cell culture assay evaluated using generalized linear mixed models and a score test.

Biological assays often utilize experimental designs where observations are replicated at multiple levels, and where each level represents a separate component of the assay's overall variance. Statistical analysis of such data usually ignores these design effects, whereas more sophisticated methods would improve the statistical power of assays. This report evaluates the statistical performance of an in vitro MCF-7 cell proliferation assay (E-SCREEN) by identifying the optimal generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) that accurately represents the assay's experimental design and variance components. Our statistical assessment found that 17β-oestradiol cell culture assay data were best modelled with a GLMM configured with a reciprocal link function, a gamma error distribution, and three sources of design variation: plate-to-plate; well-to-well, and the interaction between plate-to-plate variation and dose. The gamma-distributed random error of the assay was estimated to have a coefficient of variation (COV) = 3.2 per cent, and a variance component score test described by X. Lin found that each of the three variance components were statistically significant. The optimal GLMM also confirmed the estrogenicity of five weakly oestrogenic polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs 17, 49, 66, 74, and 128). Based on information criteria, the optimal gamma GLMM consistently out-performed equivalent naive normal and log-normal linear models, both with and without random effects terms. Because the gamma GLMM was by far the best model on conceptual and empirical grounds, and requires only trivially more effort to use, we encourage its use and suggest that naive models be avoided when possible. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Factors determining the conformation and quaternary structure of isolated human erythrocyte band 3 in detergent solution

Fluorescence spectroscopy was used to follow the kinetics of covalent binding of DIDS (4,4'-diisothiocyanato-2,2'-stilbenedisulfonate) to isolated band 3 in C12E8. We have discovered a dilution-induced loss in the ability of band 3 monomer to form a covalent adduct with DIDS. The loss in DIDS reactivity with dilution followed a 50:50 biphasic time course despite the use of a homogeneous preparation of band 3 oligomers. The loss in reactivity generally correlated with the association of band 3 dimers and tetramers to higher oligomeric structures. The final aggregated product was capable of binding BADS (4-benzamido-4'-amino-2,2'-stilbenedisulfonate) reversibly, but with an affinity nearly 30-fold lower than that of the starting material. Removal of the cytoplasmic domain of band 3 slowed the conformational interconversion of the integral domain by about 5-fold and inhibited the aggregation process. The conformational interconversion was slowed in the presence of 150 mM chloride but not in 90 mM sulfate. Covalent binding of DIDS inhibited the aggregation of band 3. Addition of 250 microM lipid inhibited both the loss of DIDS reactivity and the protein aggregation process. While several types of lipid offer protection, phosphatidic acid accelerated the decay process by eliminating the biphasicity. We conclude that the conformation of the integral domain of band 3 can be modulated allosterically by the addition of ligands, including various lipids. The results offer direct evidence for cooperative interactions between band 3 subunits during loss of activity, and they show that the cytoplasmic domain participates in the control of this transition.
Fluorescence excitation spectroscopy of polystyrene near the critical concentration c

The critical concentration c* was measured using both fluorescence excitation spectroscopy and light scattering for four narrow molecular weight distribution samples of polystyrene (MW = 225,000–1,500,000) in bicyclo[4.4.0]decane (decahydronaphthalene, decalin) at 20 and 30°C. A discontinuity in the corrected intensity of a band in the excitation spectrum (assigned to the dimmer complex) as a function of concentration allowed determination of the critical concentration, c*, from the excitation spectra. The c* resulting from fluorescence and light scattering were identical within experimental error and were comparable to c* values calculated from literature methods. Fluorescence excitation spectroscopy should be a convenient method for determining c* for aromatic polymers. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 104: 360–364, 2007
A probabilistic methodology for the design of radiological confinement of tokamak reactors

Abstract A methodology using probabilistic risk assessment techniques is proposed for evaluating the design of multiple confinement barriers for a fusion plant within the context of a limited allowable risk. The methodology was applied to the reference design of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). Accident sequence models were developed to determine the probability of radioactive releases from each confinement barrier. The current ITER design requirements, that set environmental radioactive release limits for individual event sequences grouped in categories by frequency, is extended to derive a limit on the plant overall risk. This avoids detailed accounting for event uncertainties in both frequency and consequence. Thus, an analytical form for a limit line is derived as a complementary cumulative frequency of permissible radioactive releases to the environment. The line can be derived using risk aversion of the designer's own choice. By comparing the releases from each confinement barrier against this limit line, a decision can be made about the number of barriers required to comply with the design requirements. A decision model using multi-attribute utility function theory was constructed to help the designer in choosing the type of the tokamak building while considering preferences for attributes such as construction cost, project completion time, technical feasibility and public attitude. Sensitivity analysis on some of the relevant parameters in the model was performed.
A 16S rRNA–tRNA product containing a nucleotide phototrimer and specific for tRNA in the P/E hybrid state in the Escherichia coli ribosome

Ribosome complexes containing deacyl-tRNA1Val or biotinylvalyl-tRNA1Val and an mRNA analog have been irradiated with wavelengths specific for activation of the cmo5U nucleoside at position 34 in the tRNA1Val anticodon loop. The major product for both types of tRNA is the cross-link between 16S rRNA (C1400) and the tRNA (cmo5U34) characterized already by Ofengand and his collaborators [Prince et al. (1982) Proc. Natl Acad. Sci. USA, 79, 5450–5454]. However, in complexes containing deacyl-tRNA1Val, an additional product is separated by denaturing PAGE and this is shown to involve C1400 and m5C967 of 16S rRNA and cmo5U34 of the tRNA. Puromycin treatment of the biotinylvalyl-tRNA1Val –70S complex followed by irradiation, results in the appearance of the unusual photoproduct, which indicates an immediate change in the tRNA interaction with the ribosome after peptide transfer. These results indicate an altered interaction between the tRNA anticodon and the 30S subunit for the tRNA in the P/E hybrid state compared with its interaction in the classic P/P state.
Methodology to retrieve and assess the accuracy of atmospheric temperature profiles at the pixel level using satellite sounder data

In this paper, we present the first of a two part discussion to improve the specification of atmospheric transmission calculations using a new methodology to reduce the uncertainty in pixel-level temperature profiles derived from meteorological satellite sounder data. Temperature profiles are examined first, since these data are used to derive the moisture content of the atmosphere. Our results show that the uncertainty in the specification of temperature profiles, for pixel level retrievals of meteorological satellite sounder data, can be assessed using knowledge on the accuracy of the initial-guess to a physical relaxation algorithm.
A HYPOTHESIS THAT THE SURFACE OF THE MOON IS COVERED WITH NEEDLE CRYSTALS

Abstract That fraction of lunar material which has not been subject to melting and that fraction which has been subject to vaporization and redeposition as a result of impacts (even if originally solidified from a melt) should be deposited on the surface of the Moon in the form of whisker crystals or needles—a result indicated by laboratory experiments on the condensation of material from a vapor to a solid phase in a region of pressure and temperature that precludes a liquid phase. This is the region of temperature and pressure that would apply to material condensing from the vapor to a solid phase on the surface of the Moon or, generally, in interplanetary space. The solid meteorites that reach the surface of the Earth are not typical of primordial solid material but represent a secondary source. In contrast, material which condensed originally from gaseous to solid form in the formation of the solar system first took the shape of needle crystals, next accumulations of needle crystals (as represented perhaps by the bodies responsible for the faint meteor anomaly), and finally large accumulations such as the Moon in which gravitational forces are important.
Metabolism of bupropion by baboon hepatic and placental microsomes

Abstract The aim of this investigation was to determine the biotransformation of bupropion by baboon hepatic and placental microsomes, identify the enzyme(s) catalyzing the reaction(s) and determine its kinetics. Bupropion was metabolized by baboon hepatic and placental microsomes to hydroxybupropion (OH-BUP), threo- (TB) and erythrohydrobupropion (EB). OH-bupropion was the major metabolite formed by hepatic microsomes ( K m 36 ± 6 μM, V max 258 ± 32 pmol mg protein −1 min −1 ), however the formation of OH-BUP by placental microsomes was below the limit of quantification. The apparent K m values of bupropion for the formation of TB and EB by hepatic and placental microsomes were similar. The selective inhibitors of CYP2B6 (ticlopidine and phencyclidine) and monoclonal antibodies raised against human CYP2B6 isozyme caused 80% inhibition of OH-BUP formation by baboon hepatic microsomes. The chemical inhibitors of aldo-keto reductases (flufenamic acid), carbonyl reductases (menadione), and 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (18β-glycyrrhetinic acid) significantly decreased the formation of TB and EB by hepatic and placental microsomes. Data indicate that CYP2B of baboon hepatic microsomes is responsible for biotransformation of bupropion to OH-BUP, while hepatic and placental short chain dehydrogenases/reductases and to a lesser extent aldo-keto reductases are responsible for the reduction of bupropion to TB and EB.
Reduction of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Production and Cytopathic Effects by Inhibitors of the Na+/K+/2Cl−Cotransporter

Infection of CD4+ T-lymphoblastoid cells by cytopathic strains of HIV-1 results in an increase in cell volume that leads to lysis and cell death. The increase in volume is attributable in part to an HIV-induced increase in intracellular monovalent ion concentrations mediated by the plasma membrane-associated Na+/K+/2 Cl- cotransporter. Loop diuretics, which inhibit cotransporter activity, blocked HIV-induced HIV production and cytopathic effects at physiologically employed concentrations.
Detection of the 267 GHz J = 1-0 Rotational Transition of PH3 in Saturn with a New Fourier Transform Spectrometer

In recent observations with the Fourier transform spectrometer at the Caltech Submillimeter Observatory (CSO), we have detected the highly pressure-broadened (Full width at half maximum (FWHM) = 11.2 GHz) J = 1-0 rotational transition of PH3 (phosphine) on Saturn. By modeling the saturnian atmosphere with a radiative transfer code, we find that the observed line profile is consistent with a constant PH3 mole fraction of 0.3 +/- 1.0 ppm in the upper troposphere. A best fit to the depth of the line implies a cutoff at high altitudes, with no PH3 present at pressures less than and about 100 mbar. The observed line depth, combined with the lack of a detectable emission core, implies that a cutoff in the PH3 abundance occurs at a pressure between 13 and 140 mbar. We did not detect PH3 in Jupiter or any other molecular lines between 195 and 295 GHz (1.54 mm and 2.02 mm, respectively) in either Jupiter or Saturn.
Characterization of semiconductor device structures using contactless electromodulation

This paper reviews some recent developments in the use of the contactless, and hence nondestructive, electromodulation methods of photoreflectance and contactless electroreflectance for the room temperature characterization and qualification of semiconductor device structures. These include heterojunction bipolar transistors, pseudomorphic high electron mobility transistors, depletion and enhancement mode transistors, quantum well lasers, vertical cavity surface emitting lasers, multiple quantum well infrared detectors and solar cells.
Far above rubies: Bride price and extramarital sexual relations in Uganda

The custom of bride price involves the payment of goods or cash from the groom’s family to the bride’s family at the time of marriage. Data from a household survey in Uganda were used to estimate the relationship between payment of bride price and non-marital sexual relationships. A robust correlation between bride price payment and lower rates of non-marital sexual relationships is found for women but not for men. One interpretation we offer for these findings is that bride price reflects the price of women’s sexual fidelity to men. This interpretation makes sense in light of the refundable nature of bride price in Uganda.
A Longitudinal Study of One Organization’s Culture: Do Values Endure?

Organizational members responded to four open‐ended questions about the organization’s culture at two times, six years apart. Results of a content analysis of the responses indicated that organizational values remained stable, despite extensive changes in the top leadership of the organization coupled with environmental forces that were pushing for change in the organization’s culture. The categories of responses that emerged from the survey were explored and discussed as depictions of the organization’s culture.
Communication games on the generalized Gaussian relay channel

Relaying is often seen as one of the means of increasing capacity of wireless networks [?]. Thus, various cooperative communication schemes for relaying have been proposed that achieve close to the information-theoretic network capacity. The premise behind such schemes is cooperative behavior of users. This, however, cannot be taken for granted. Users may be selfish and care only about their own rates. They might even strategically deviate from their agreed role in such cooperative communication schemes leading to a possible degradation for all. In this paper, we look at the generalized Gaussian relay channel model with two selfish users. A capacity-achieving communication scheme for such channel models was proposed by Sendonaris, et al. [?]. We show that under certain channel conditions, operating on a part of the Pareto-optimal boundary of the achievable rate region with this scheme is a Nash equilibrium, and in fact these are the only Nash equilibria. We establish the results for the one-way Gaussian relay channel, and then extend it to the two-way Gaussian relay channel model. These results may be seen as being in the same spirit as the recent results of Berry and Tse for the Gaussian interference channel [?], [?].