cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
An in vitro investigation of the anodic polarization and capacitance behavior of 316-L stainless steel.

Determinations were made of how the corrosion-resistant properties of the passive film on 316-L stainless steel are influenced by the material's mechanical and surface states, and the variable pH and PO2 conditions of the interstitial fluid. Cold-rolled and annealed specimens were surface-prepared, commercially and in the laboratory, respectively, as if for orthopedic implantation. Passive film behavior was studied by the anodic polarization and pulse- potentiostatic capacitance methods. The pH and PO2 of the Ringer's test solution were varied to include interstitial fluid values occurring postoperatively and onto recovery. The anodic polarization behavior of all specimens was found to be pH- and PO2-independent. Breakdown potentials of annealed specimens were 800–950 mV (SCE), in contrast to previously reported values of approximately 350 mV. This substantial increase is related to the influence of surface preparation and, in particular, to the optimization of electropolishing time which acts to produce a microscopically smooth surface, free of debris and disarrayed material. Capacitance behavior of annealed material for potentials > 400 mV was consistent with a model involving the entry of chloride and metal ions (mostly Fe) into the passive film. This entry is related to the onset of pitting.
Quantitative miRNA Expression Analysis Using Fluidigm Microfluidics Dynamic Arrays

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) represent a growing class of small non-coding RNAs that are important regulators of gene expression in both plants and animals. Studies have shown that miRNAs play a critical role in human cancer and they can influence the level of cell proliferation and apoptosis by modulating gene expression. Currently, methods for the detection and measurement of miRNA expression include small and moderate-throughput technologies, such as standard quantitative PCR and microarray based analysis. However, these methods have several limitations when used in large clinical studies where a high-throughput and highly quantitative technology needed for the efficient characterization of a large number of miRNA transcripts in clinical samples. Furthermore, archival formalin fixed, paraffin embedded (FFPE) samples are increasingly becoming the primary resource for gene expression studies because fresh frozen (FF) samples are often difficult to obtain and requires special storage conditions. In this study, we evaluated the miRNA expression levels in FFPE and FF samples as well as several lung cancer cell lines employing a high throughput qPCR-based microfluidic technology. The results were compared to standard qPCR and hybridization-based microarray platforms using the same samples. We demonstrated highly correlated Ct values between multiplex and singleplex RT reactions in standard qPCR assays for miRNA expression using total RNA from A549 (R = 0.98; p < 0.0001) and H1299 (R = 0.95; p < 0.0001) lung cancer cell lines. The Ct values generated by the microfluidic technology (Fluidigm 48.48 dynamic array systems) resulted in a left-shift toward lower Ct values compared to those observed by ABI 7900 HT (mean difference, 3.79), suggesting that the microfluidic technology exhibited a greater sensitivity. In addition, we show that as little as 10 ng total RNA can be used to reliably detect all 48 or 96 tested miRNAs using a 96-multiplexing RT reaction in both FFPE and FF samples. Finally, we compared miRNA expression measurements in both FFPE and FF samples by qPCR using the 96.96 dynamic array and Affymetrix microarrays. Fold change comparisons for comparable genes between the two platforms indicated that the overall correlation was R = 0.60. The maximum fold change detected by the Affymetrix microarray was 3.5 compared to 13 by the 96.96 dynamic array. The qPCR-array based microfluidic dynamic array platform can be used in conjunction with multiplexed RT reactions for miRNA gene expression profiling. We showed that this approach is highly reproducible and the results correlate closely with the existing singleplex qPCR platform at a throughput that is 5 to 20 times higher and a sample and reagent usage that was approximately 50-100 times lower than conventional assays. We established optimal conditions for using the Fluidigm microfluidic technology for rapid, cost effective, and customizable arrays for miRNA expression profiling and validation.
Evolution of the active surface of the vanadyl pyrophosphate catalysts

Bulk crystallinity of vanadyl(IV) pyrophosphate catalysts forn-butane partial oxidation increased up to 23 days on stream as determined by XRD and Raman spectroscopy, while selectivity reached steady state after 8–10 days. Electron microscopy detected a 15 A amorphous layer terminating the (200) planes of (VO)2P2O7 in fresh catalysts that was not observed in the equilibrated catalysts. It is suggested that ordering of (200) planes at the surface of (VO)2P2O7 is responsible for selective oxidation.
Inhibition of binding of the platelet-activating factor AGEPC to platelets by the AGEPC analog rac-3-(N-n-octadecylcarbamoyloxy)-2-methoxypropyl 2-thiazolioethyl phosphate (CV-3988).

Abstract CV-3988, rac -3-(N-n-octadecylcarbamoyloxy)-2-methoxypropyl 2-thiazolioethyl phosphate, is a specific inhibitor of the platelet-activating activity of 1-O-alkyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphorylcholine (AGEPC or PAF acether ). Concentrations of CV-3988 between 10 −8 and 10 −7 M inhibited AGEPC-induced aggregation of washed human platelets in a dose-related manner (IC 50 = 2.9 ± 1.1 × 10 −8 M CV-3988) whereas concentrations of CV-3988 as high as 4 × 10 −6 M did not diminish platelet aggregation by thrombin or adenosine diphosphate. The binding of [ 3 H] AGEPC to platelets was inhibited by CV-3988 in a concentration-dependent manner (IC 50 = 6.7 ± 1.8 × 10 −8 M). Compared to AGEPC, CV-3988 has a 1000-fold lower affinity for the AGEPC receptor. CV-3988 did not stimulate platelet metabolism of AGEPC as assessed by thin-layer chromatographic analysis of [ 3 H] AGEPC extracted from platelet suspensions after four hours of incubation. Thus these studies indicate that CV-3988 inhibits platelet activation by AGEPC by inhibiting binding of AGEPC to its specific platelet receptor.
Three tests of 'anticipatory responding' as an account for induction produced by upcoming food-pellet reinforcement.

Abstract Previous research has demonstrated that rats’ rates of lever pressing for low-concentration liquid-sucrose reinforcers are increased when food-pellet, rather than sucrose, reinforcement will be upcoming in the same session (i.e. induction). The present experiments were designed to determine whether this induction was the product of ‘anticipatory responses’ for the upcoming food pellets being added to the responses being made for the currently available sucrose reinforcement. Experiment 1 tested this idea by summing sucrose-reinforced responding and ‘anticipatory responding’ from different conditions and comparing the sum to responding from a third condition in which subjects responded for sucrose when food-pellet reinforcement was upcoming. The comparison yielded similar response rates. Experiment 2 employed a blackout, of different durations in different conditions, to delay the upcoming food-pellet reinforcement. Consistent with the anticipatory-responding account, the delay decreased the size of the induction. However, results from the blackouts were not entirely consistent with the anticipatory-responding explanation. Experiment 3 provided, in some conditions, sucrose and food-pellet reinforcement in the first and second halves of the session, respectively, for responding on separate levers. These conditions separated ‘anticipatory responses’ for the food pellets from responses for the sucrose reinforcers. However, induction in responding for sucrose was still present. Together, these experiments demonstrate that, although anticipatory responses may contribute to induction in some instances, they are not solely responsible for the effect.
Forging new relationships: Social capital in the transistion

A theory of transitional economies is now emerging, much of which is evolutionary-institutional in nature and hence very critical of the naivete of socalled shock therapy and the economic reasoning that supported it. Indeed it has become apparent that changing the formal rules of the game, difficult as this may be, is far from sufficient. The informal rules of the game, the customs and norms of the social order, are critical to the operation of the economy. These informal rules are often implicit or tacit, and therefore very difficult to reach on a policy level. This paper seeks to apply the concept of social capital to the transitional economic process using the former Soviet republic of Russia to draw attention to the complex issues of governance and legitimacy that are too often neglected in economic discourse.
Revenue Diversification in Arkansas Cities: The Budgetary and Tax Effort Impacts

The consequences of revenue shortfalls for cities are particularly dramatic due to the balanced-budget requirement. Revenue diversification is one method of stabilizing revenue streams because diversified revenue structures can mitigate the revenue fluctuations often associated with single source revenue. Using audited financial reports, this study examines the impact of revenue diversification in Arkansas cities over 10 years. To address the issue of revenue adequacy, this study examines diversification's impact on current year budget changes in revenue and expenditures as well as its impact on tax effort.
Pseudo-outbreak of Mycobacterium chelonae and Methylobacterium mesophilicum caused by contamination of an automated endoscopy washer.

Objective:To evaluate an unusual number of rapidly growing acid-fast bacilli, later identified as Mycobacterium chelonae, and pink bacteria, later identified as Methylo-bacterium mesophilicum, from fungal cultures obtained by bronchoscopy.Design:Outbreak investigation.Setting:An academic medical center performing approximately 500 bronchoscopies and 4,000 gastrointestinal endoscopies in 1998.Patients:Patients undergoing bronchoscopy July 21 to October 2, 1998.Methods:The infection control department reviewed patient charts and bronchoscopy logs; obtained cultures of source water, faucets, washers, unopened glutaraldehyde, glutaraldehyde from the washers, and endoscopes; observed endoscope and bronchoscope cleaning and disinfecting procedures; reviewed glutaraldehyde monitoring records; and sent M chelonae isolates for DNA fingerprinting.Results:M chelonae, M mesophilicum, gram-negative bacteria, and various molds grew from endoscopes, automated washers, and glutaraldehyde from the washers but not from unopened glutaraldehyde. The endoscopy unit regularly monitored the pH of glutaraldehyde, and the logs contained no deficiencies. The above sources remained positive for the same organisms after a glutaraldehyde cleaning cycle of the automated washers. DNA fingerprinting of the M chelonae revealed that they were clonally related.Conclusions:The automated washers were contaminated with a biofilm that rendered them resistant to decontamination. The washers then contaminated the endoscopes and bronchoscopes they were used to disinfect. Our institution purchased new endoscopes and a new paracetic acid sterilization system.
Managing plant diseases offshore

Managing exotic plant diseases and other potential pests imported into the United States (US) on incoming cargo is an on-going challenge for many countries including the US. The primary exclusionary strategy used by the US for exotic pathogens is inspection of arriving cargo and passengers at ports of entry. In spite of these efforts, introductions of many exotic pests have occurred through numerous ports of entry resulting in costly eradication efforts by Government and US industry. In an effort to moderate these risks, the US is focusing on offshore strategies. One offshore strategy developed first as a pilot project and currently as an ongoing project is known as the Offshore Pest Information System (OPIS). OPIS is a secure web-based information sharing tool that allows users to communicate in an organised manner about offshore plant and animal health events and issues. OPIS was designed to allow the US to quickly and effectively respond to offshore plant pests that could potentially threaten the US.
Genetics of susceptibility to 6-aminonicotinamide-induced cleft palate in the mouse: studies in congenic and recombinant inbred strains

In a search for genetic differences in susceptibility to cleft palate, congenic and recombinant inbred strains of mice were treated with 6-aminonicotinamide or control injections. Of six loci tested, only the chromosome segment marked by N-acetyl transferase was found to affect susceptibility to 6-aminonicotinamide-induced cleft palate. This chromosome segment is known to affect glucocorticoid-induced cleft palate and phenytoin-induced cleft lip with or without cleft palate in these strains of mice.
Photopolymerization of liquid carbon disulfide produces nanoscale polythiene films.

Broad band solar or 300−400 nm irradiation (Hg−Xe arc source) of liquid-phase carbon disulfide produces a new carbon−sulfur polymer with the approximate (n = 1.04−1.05) stoichiometry (CSn)x. The po...
Deep state defects in strained and relaxed epitaxial Si1−xGex on Si introduced by 3d transition metal and 5d noble metal impurities

Abstract This study describes deep state defects introduced in the epitaxial Si 1− x Ge x on Si substrates by 3d transition metal (Fe, Ti, Cr, Ni) and 5d noble metal (Au, Pt) impurities. The deep state activation energy is related to the Ge concentration and strain in the Si 1− x Ge x . The strain dependence is described in terms of the deep state uniaxial and hydrostatic deformation potentials. The difference between the deep state activation energies in Si and Si 1− x Ge x does not agree with the independently determined Si–Si 1− x Ge x band offsets. This demonstrates that the concept of 3d state as an independent, internal reference level, well established for III–V and II–VI compounds, fails in the case of group IV semiconductors.
Modeling magnetic fields measured by surface probes embedded in a cylindrical flux conserver

Calculating magnetic fields at the surface of a flux conserver, perfect conductor, for displaced plasma currents is useful for understanding modes of a Z-pinch. The magnetic fields measured at the flux conserver are a sum of the magnetic fields from the plasma current and the eddy currents which form in the walls to keep the flux constant. While the magnetic field at the wall from the plasma current alone is easily calculated using the Biot-Savart law, finding the eddy currents in the flux conserver which satisfy the boundary conditions can be a tedious process. A simple method of calculating the surface magnetic field for a given Z-pinch displacement off-axis is derived for a cylindrical flux conserver. This relationship does not require the explicit calculation of the eddy currents, saving time when analyzing surface magnetic probe measurements. Analytic expressions can be used to describe the surface magnetic field which increase the understanding of the magnetic probe measurements.
Origin, physical, and mineralogical nature of red clays: The Pacific Ocean Basin as a model

Extensive examination of North Pacific Basin red clays by scanning and transmission electron microscopy reveals that the mean constituent of the red clays are illite-rich argillaceous or shale clasts, quartz and authigenic smectite. The main source of the shale clasts and quartz are aeolian in nature and are derived mainly from African and Asian shales. Illite-rich argillaceous or shale clasts are identifiable by their morphology (high degree of roundness), selected area diffraction, and their unique fracture characteristics created by an ultra thin-sectioning process. This allows for the identification and differentiation of illite-rich shale clasts from other clays, including detrital illite, kaolinite, and smectite. Geotechnical examination of the red clays indicate that they are overconsolidated: the preconsolidation stress is in all cases larger than the vertical effective stress. The overconsolidation is attributed to the strong bonding of argillaceous or shale clasts, quartz and other particulate matter by x-ray amorphous and well developed crystalline sheets of authigenic smectite characterized by high surface activity.
Paleomagnetism and geochronology of an Early Proterozoic quartz diorite in the southern Rind River Range, Wyoming, USA

Abstract We present geochronologic and paleomagnetic data from a north-trending quartz diorite intrusion that cuts Archean metasedimentary and metaigneous rocks of the South Pass Greenstone Belt of the Wyoming craton. The quartz diorite was previously thought to be either Archean or Early Proterozoic (?) in age and is cut by north and northeast-trending Proterozoic diabase dikes of uncertain age, for which we also report paleomagnetic data. New U–Pb analyses of baddeleyite and zircon from the quartz diorite yield a concordia upper intercept age of 2170±8 Ma (95% confidence). An 40Ar/39Ar amphibole date from the same sample yields a similar apparent age of about 2124±30 Ma (2σ), thus confirming that the intrusion is Early Proterozoic in age and that it has probably not been thermally disturbed since emplacement. A magmatic event at ca. 2.17 Ga has not previously been documented in the Wyoming craton. The quartz diorite and one of the crosscutting diabase dikes yield essentially identical, well-defined characteristic remanent magnetizations. Results from eight sites in the quartz diorite yield an in situ mean direction of north declination and moderate to steep positive inclination (Dec.=355°, Inc.=65°, k=145, α95=5°) with a paleomagnetic pole at 84°N, 215°E (δm=6°, δp=7°). Data from other diabase dike sites are inconsistent with the quartz diorite results, but the importance of these results is uncertain because the age of the dikes is not well known. Interpretation of the quartz diorite remanent magnetization is problematic. The in situ direction is similar to expected directions for magnetizations of Late Cretaceous/early Tertiary age. However, there is no compelling evidence to suggest that these rocks were remagnetized during the late Mesozoic or Cenozoic. Assuming this magnetization to be primary, then the in situ paleomagnetic pole is strongly discordant with poles of 2167, 2214, and 2217 Ma from the Canadian Shield, and is consistent with proposed separation of the Wyoming Craton and Laurentia prior to about 1.8 Ga. Correcting the quartz diorite pole for the possible effects of Laramide-age tilting of the Wind River Range, based on the attitude of nearby overlying Cambrian Flathead Sandstone (dip=20°, N20°E), gives a tilt corrected pole of 75°N, 58°E (δm=4°, δp=6°), which is also discordant with respect to time-equivalent poles from the Superior Province. Reconstruction of the Superior and Wyoming Province using a rotation similar to that proposed by Roscoe and Card [Can. J. Earth Sci. 46(1993)2475] is problematic, but reconstruction of the Superior and Wyoming Provinces based on restoring them to their correct paleolatitude and orientation using a closest approach fit indicates that the two cratons could have been adjacent at about 2.17 Ga prior to rifting at about 2.15 Ga. The paleomagnetic data presented are consistent with the hypothesis that the Huronian and Snowy Pass Supergroups could have evolved as part of a single epicratonic sedimentary basin during the Early Proterozoic.
A potent oligosaccharyl transferase inhibitor that crosses the intracellular endoplasmic reticulum membrane.

Recent work has resulted in the development of potent inhibitors of oligosaccharyl transferase (OT), the enzyme that catalyzes the cotranslational glycosylation of asparagine [Hendrickson, T. L., Spencer, J. R., Kato, M., and Imperiali, B. (1996) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 118, 7636−7637; Kellenberger, C., Hendrickson, T. L., and Imperiali, B. (1997) Biochemistry 36, 12554−12559]. However, no specific OT inhibitors that function in the cellular environment have yet been reported. The peptide cyclo(hex-Amb-Cys)-Thr-Val-Thr-Nph-NH2 was previously shown to exhibit nanomolar inhibition (Ki = 37 nM) through slow tight binding kinetics [Hendrickson, T. L., Spencer, J. R., Kato, M., and Imperiali, B. (1996) J. Am. Chem. Soc. 118, 7636−7637]. Included herein is the redesign of this prototype inhibitor for achieving both passive and active translocation into model membrane systems representing the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The strategy for passive transport involved the incorporation of a membrane permeable import functi...
Modulation in Feeding Kinematics and Motor Pattern of the Nurse Shark Ginglymostoma cirratum

Studies of feeding in bony fishes have almost universally demonstrated the ability of individuals to modulate their method of capture in response to differing stimuli. Preliminary evidence indicates that morphologically specialized inertial suction feeding sharks are the most likely fishes to lack inherent modulatory ability. We examined the ability of the nurse shark, Ginglymostoma cirratum, to modulate its feeding behavior based on different food types and sizes. G. cirratum is an inertial suction feeding fish that is apparently stereotyped in its food capture behavior. Electromyography showed no statistical difference between feeding motor patterns based on food type (squid or fish) or size (gape width or twice gape width), although there were slight inter-individual differences in the onset of muscle firing for some muscles. Kinematic analysis showed a statistical difference in variables associated with durations for different food types, with the durations for all variables being faster for squid bites than fish bites, but no difference based on the size of the food item. This apparent lack of modulation may be associated with specialization of the morphology and behavior of G. cirratum for obligate suction prey capture. This functional specialization constrains the method in which G. cirratum captures prey but does not appear to result in dietary specialization. An unusual post capture spit-suck manipulation allows this shark to handle and ingest large prey.
The Paraguayan Military in Transition and the Evolution of Civil-Military Relations

This article chronicles the praetorian tradition in Paraguay and documents the recent historical record affecting current civil-military trends. It then shifts to analyze the evolving scenario within Paraguay and maps several alternative transitions emerging from the characteristics of the still-unfolding civil-military relationship. The discussion concludes with an examination of the military's significance for political stability and the prospects for democracy in Paraguay.
What kind of civil society is best for democracy

The correlation between civil society and democracy and civil society has been so striking that we now see them as reinforcing one another. But as we look more closely at civil societies, we find they can grow in ways that undermine democracy. This was the case in Weimar Germany, and it appears that many of the newest democracies are threatened by growing nationalism and religious sectarianism. Many new democracies are only nominally democratic, maintaining veneers of democratic institutions that mask authoritarian realities. While each case has its own logic and history, a political theorist's responsibility is conceptual: can we distinguish between civil societies that are good for democracy and those that are not? I argue that we can and must: by conceiving the multiple requirements of democracy and as well as differing associations that might serve those requirements, we can distinguish between civil societies that are good for democracy and those that are not. If we can make these distinctions, we might also understand how to design institutions that encourage and protect those features of civil society that underwrite democracy.
Upping the Ante for Lotto: a Strategy for Enhancing State Revenues

Many state lottery agencies operate a numbers game in which a grand prize accumulates (i.e. "rolls over") until at least one player wins it. This type of game is usually called a "lotto. " This article investigates the possibility of enhancing net revenues from a lotto by artificially increasing the expected grand prize amount with funds not generated by the game itself. Using data from the Florida Lotto, a time series regression for weekly ticket sales is estimated. Also introduced is a limited dependent variable model to estimate the probability that the grand prize will roll over as afunction of ticket sales. This model is based on a variation of the binomial distribution. The findings are that net revenues can be increased by artificially increasing the grand prize, but the timing of the increase has a large impact on the expected rate of return.
Oscillatory magnetic exchange coupling through thin copper layers

Confirming theoretical predictions more than 25 years old, we show that Co slabs are indirectly exchange coupled via thin Cu layers with a coupling that alternates back and forth between antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic. Four oscillations are observed with a period of \ensuremath{\simeq}10 \AA{}. Moreover, the antiferromagnetically coupled Co/Cu superlattices exhibit extraordinarily large saturation magnetoresistances at 300 K of more than 65%.
Qualitative analysis of peripheral peri-implant bone and influence of alendronate sodium on early bone regeneration

Background: Alendronate sodium increases alveolar bone density with systemic use. It inhibits osteoclast activity and is thought to result in a net increase in osteoblastic activity. However, little is known about local in vivo use. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of local delivery of alendronate on bone regeneration within peri-implant defects. Peri-implant bone was examined histomorphometrically to evaluate the amount of supporting bone peripheral to the bone-implant interface. Methods: Six adult hound dogs were evenly divided into 2 groups, with one group receiving alendronate-coated dental implants and the other group serving as controls. Dental implants were placed immediately after extraction of right and left second, third, and fourth mandibular premolars. Forty-eight dental implants were placed (2 types in each dog: 24 hydroxyapatite [HA]-coated and 24 titanium machine-polished [TMP]), for a total of 4 variables. A bioabsorbable collagen membrane was secured over the implants ...
A Homologous Series of Base‐Free Organo(alkaline‐earth) Metallocenes: Synthesis and Molecular Structures of [1,2,4‐(SiMe3)3C5H2]2(Ca, Sr, Ba)

Bis[1,2,4-tris(trimethylsilyl)cyclopentadienyl] complexes [1,2,4-(SiMe3)3C5H2]2Ae [(Cp3Si)2Ae; Ae = Ca (1), Sr (2), Ba (3)] are isolated from the 2:1 reaction of K[Cp3Si] and AeI2 in diethyl ether. Under the same reaction conditions used for the heavier metallocenes, the corresponding (Cp3Si)2Be compound was not formed, although calculations suggest that the beryllocene would be sterically feasible. Compound 1 crystallizes as a bent monomer from hexanes (ring centroid−Ca−ring centroid = 166.7°) with two η5-Cp3Si ligands on the calcium atom [Ca−C(av) = 2.63(2) A]. Metallocene 2, the first crystallographically characterized example of an unsolvated strontocene, is also isolated as a bent monomer (159.4°) from hexanes with two η5-Cp3Si ligands on the strontium atom [Sr−C(av) = 2.819(2) A]. Compound 3 crystallizes on sublimation as a coordination dimer in which each barium atom is flanked by two η5-Cp3Si rings [Ba−C(av) = 3.01(2) A] and one methyl group from a neighboring Cp′ ring; the intermolecular Ba···C(methyl)′ distance is 3.275(6) A. The amount of bending observed in 1−3 and other Group-2 metallocenes varies with the metals, the steric bulk of the cyclopentadienyl ligands, and crystal packing effects, and is not easily predictable. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2003)
The sea change in US biofuels' funding: from cellulosic ethanol to green gasoline

The direction of federal funding for biomass conversion into biofuels has shifted dramatically in just the last few years. Four years ago, the national action plan essentially read ‘ethanol-only’, and was to meet the new renewable fuel standards solely with cellulosic ethanol. While ethanol is still part of the picture, the most recent emphasis is on ‘high energy density, infrastructure-compatible biofuels’ – hydrocarbons. In this paper, the transition from one focus to the other, a real sea change, is conveyed from the perspective of one who, with the support of the NSF and colleagues in other federal agencies, helped to bring it about. © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd
Not quite inexplicable: exploring the Bush administration's response to terrorism

This article briefly explores the many ways in which the George W. Bush administration's response to the terror attacks of September 11, 2001 do not conform to the predictions of the rational actor model. The article suggests that foreign policy decision-making models which focus on the behaviour of organisations and on bureaucratic politics provide far more satisfactory explanations for such matters as the failure to anticipate the attacks, the decision to attack Iraq, the exclusion of certain major actors from the policy making process and the failure to anticipate the difficulties which would follow on the invasion of Iraq.
Analytical application of ion-molecule reactions. Reactions of various substituted cyclopropane molecular ions with ammonia

By ion cyclotron resonance it is found that various substituted cy clopropanes after ionization react with ammonia to give products which allow identification of the degree and kind ofsubstitution on the cyclopropl ring. For example, cyclopropyle reacts to give [CH2NH2]+ (m/e 30), methylcyclopropane gives [CH2NH2]+ (m/e 30) and the ethyl substituted [CH(C2H3)NH2]+ (m/e 44) and ethylopropane gives [CH2NH2]+ (m/e 30) and the ethyl substituted [CH(C2H5)NH2]+ (m/e 58). It is suggested that reactions of stable molecular ions with reagent neutrals may be a source of highly specific structural information for organic compounds.
Electrocardiographic distortions caused by inadequate high-frequency response of direct-writing electrocardiographs.

Abstract The majority of direct-writing electrocardiographs in present use have inadequate high-frequency response characteristics, in that Q, R, and S amplitude errors will result when such systems are used for recording. In a study of 60 electrocardiographic waveforms, wide-band (greater chan 1,000 c.p.s.) recordings were compared with recordings using lower cutoff frequencies. Identical complexes were compared. In order to reduce Q, R, and S amplitude errors below 0.10 millivolt, a cutoff frequency greater than 100 c.p.s. is required. Errors in the duration of QRS are less affected unless the cutoff frequency is reduced to the vicinity of 60 c.p.s. Other time intervals, such as Q-wave duration and P-R and Q-T intervals, are affected in somewhat the same manner as QRS durations, and a small percentage of records exhibited erros in these durations even with a cutoff frequency of 80 c.p.s. The use of direct-writers having a cutoff frequency of at least 100 c.p.s., with no resonant peaks below this frequency, is recommended as a minimum response. To reduced amplitude errors below 0.05 millivolt, the use of a considerably greater cut-off frequency, perhaps 200 c.p.s., is recommended. It is also suggested that recording techniques need to be improved in order to take advantage of the higher frequency response because of the increased capability to respond to power-line frequency interference.
Breeding cycle aggression in domesticated zebra finches (Poephila guttata)

Patterns of breeding cycle aggressive behavior were examined in colonies of domesticated zebra finches (Poephila guttata). Aggressive behaviors of zebra finch pairs were low during non-nesting periods but were maintained at high levels during the three nesting periods: the incubating, hatching, and nestling periods. Defense of the nest site was the prominent functional category of aggression, followed by defense of individual distance. Defense of mate, defense of young, and defense of nesting material rarely occurred. Male and female members of pair bonds shared the duties of defense of the nest site and parental care. During observation times males exhibited greater frequencies of aggressive actions throughout the breeding cycle and females spent a greater amount of time in the nest during the three nesting periods. The pattern and functional categories of aggressive behavior in the zebra finch colonies correspond most closely to the nest site defense hypothesis for the evolution of breeding season aggression.
Lossless compression of color palette images with one-dimensional techniques

Palette images are widely used on the World Wide Web (WWW) and in game-cartridge applications. Many images used on the WWW are stored and transmitted after they are compressed losslessly with the standard graphics interchange format (GIF), or portable network graphics (PNG). Well-known 2-D compression schemes, such as JPEG-LS and JPEG-2000, fail to yield better compression than GIF or PNG due to the fact that the pixel values represent indices that point to color values in a look-up table. To improve the compression performance of JPEG-LS and JPEG-2000 techniques, several researchers have proposed various reindexing algorithms. We investigate various compression techniques for color palette images. We propose a new technique comprised of a trav- eling salesman problem (TSP)-based reindexing scheme, Burrows- Wheeler transformation, and inversion ranks. We show that the pro- posed technique yields better compression gain on average than all the other 1-D compressors and the reindexing schemes that utilize JPEG-LS or JPEG-2000. © 2006 SPIE and IS&T.
Effect of ethmoid sinus cavity on dose distribution at interface and how to correct for it: magnetic field with photon beams.

Recent work proposed the use of magnetic field as a solution to reduce the undesirable effect of air cavities on dose after the air/tissue interface. In contrast to the published work that looks into the problem with slab geometries, in this work we use actual anatomy based on CTimages and the magnetic flux from a Helmholtz coil-pair configuration to investigate the problem and to evaluate the efficacy of the proposed solution. The EGS4 phantom was created using CT scans of the head at the level of the ethmoid sinus. The sinus measures 1.95×2.18×2.00 cm3. The grid size used is 0.15×0.15×0.4 cm3. Three different radiation beams, 1×1, 2×2, and 4×4 cm2, all 6 MV irradiate the phantom in two different configurations: single beam and parallel opposed. The magnetic field has three different strengths: 0.0, 0.5, and 1.0 T. These represent the maximum strength achieved in the middle of the configuration, between the two coils. The depth of the second buildup region in the absence of the magnetic field was used as the normalization point for the purpose of analysis. Dose was then scored at 0.23 cm after the air/tissue interface. A second phantom, very similar to the CT-based phantom, was created, but with the sinus cavity filled with unit-density tissue; everything else remained the same. This phantom provides a base to investigate the effect of the air cavity on dose. The phantom was termed the phantom without air, or PWA for short. We use the terms “dose reduction ratio” (DRR), defined as one minus the ratio of the dose in PWA to the dose with the presence of the cavity multiplied by 100% and the “dose improvement ratio” (DIR), defined as the ratio of dose with B to that without B, to evaluate the reduction in dose due to the cavity and the improvement in dose with magnetic field, respectively. For single beam geometry, the reduced dose ranged from 41% (1×1 cm2 beam) to less than 2% (4×4 cm2 beam). For the same single beam geometry, DIR ranged from 1.13 to 1.00 (DIR=1 indicates no change) with 0.5 T, whereas it ranged from 1.44 to 1.05 for 1.0 T magnets. When an opposing beam was used, the reduced dose was not as severe, such that DRR ranged from 24% to less than 2%. Whereas the dose improvement ranged from 1.08 to 1.00 for 0.5 T, and from 1.23 to 1.01 for 1.0 T.
WITHDRAWN: Fabrication of metallic nanowire arrays by electrodeposition into nanoporous alumina membranes: Effect of barrier layer

Deposition into nanoporous alumina membranes is widely used for nanowire fabrication. Herein using AC electrodeposition ternary Fe–Co–Ni nanowires are fabricated within the nanoscale-pores of alumina membranes. Using an electrodeposition frequency of 1,000 Hz, 15 Vrms, consistently and repeatably yield nanowire arrays over membranes several cm2 in extent. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) is used to explain the effects of AC electrodeposition frequency. The impedance of the residual alumina barrier layer, separating the underlying aluminum metal and the nanoporous membrane, decreases drastically with electrodeposition frequency facilitating uniform pore-filling of samples several cm2 in area. Anodic polarization studies on thin films having alloy compositions identical to the nanowires display excellent corrosion resistance properties.
Fluorescence of magnesium-, calcium-, and zinc-8-quinolinol complexes☆

Abstract 1. 1. The study was made mainly in aqueous solutions of 0.1 M triethanolamine and tris (hydroxy) methylaminomethane on the fluorescence that was reported by Schacter in 1959 to be exhibited by an ethanolic solution of 8-quinolinol and metal ions (Mg2+, Ca2+, and Zn2+. The fluorescence was studied as a function of metal ion concentration, 8-quinolinol concentration, and also pH. 2. 2. The molar fluorescence and the apparent binding constant of these metal complexes and 8-quinolinol were then estimated. The apparent constants thus estimated were found to be in good agreement with those established by Nasanen and Pettinen (1952) using the light absorption method, the potentiometric method, and the method of solubility equilibrium. 3. 3. The sensitivity and specificity of the method for Mg2+ determination that was based on this fluorescence phenomenon were discussed in terms of the molar fluorescence and the binding constant.
Sonic hedgehog signals to multiple prostate stromal stem cells that replenish distinct stromal subtypes during regeneration

The adult mouse prostate has a seemingly endless capacity for regeneration, and sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling has been implicated in this stem cell-driven process. However, it is not clear whether SHH acts on the epithelium or stromal cells that secrete factors required for epithelial expansion. Because little is known about stromal stem cells compared with their epithelial counterparts, we used in vivo mouse genetics tools to characterize four prostate stromal subtypes and their stem cells. Using knockin reporter alleles, we uncovered that SHH signals from prostate basal epithelial cells to adjacent stromal cells. Furthermore, the SHH target gene Gli1 is preferentially expressed in subepithelial fibroblast-like cells, one of four prostate stromal subtypes and the subtype closest to the epithelial source of SHH. Using Genetic Inducible Fate Mapping to mark adult Gli1- or Smooth muscle actin-expressing cells and follow their fate during regeneration, we uncovered that Gli1-expressing cells exhibit long-term self-renewal capacity during multiple rounds of androgen-mediated regeneration after castration-induced involution, and depleted smooth muscle cells are mainly replenished by preexisting smooth muscle cells. Based on our Genetic Inducible Fate Mapping studies, we propose a model where SHH signals to multiple stromal stem cells, which are largely unipotent in vivo.
Dynamics of 5-Hydroxymethylcytosine and Chromatin Marks in Mammalian Neurogenesis

DNA methylation in mammals is highly dynamic during germ cell and preimplantation development but is relatively static during the development of somatic tissues. 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC), created by oxidation of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) by Tet proteins and most abundant in the brain, is thought to be an intermediary toward 5mC demethylation. We investigated patterns of 5mC and 5hmC during neurogenesis in the embryonic mouse brain. 5hmC levels increase during neuronal differentiation. In neuronal cells, 5hmC is not enriched at enhancers but associates preferentially with gene bodies of activated neuronal function-related genes. Within these genes, gain of 5hmC is often accompanied by loss of H3K27me3. Enrichment of 5hmC is not associated with substantial DNA demethylation, suggesting that 5hmC is a stable epigenetic mark. Functional perturbation of the H3K27 methyltransferase Ezh2 or of Tet2 and Tet3 leads to defects in neuronal differentiation, suggesting that formation of 5hmC and loss of H3K27me3 cooperate to promote brain development.
Phospholipase pathway in Alzheimer's disease brains : decrease in Gαi in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex

Abstract There is substantial evidence that G-protein-associated signaling pathways in the brain are altered in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Using quantitative immunoblotting we find a significant decrease in G αi levels in every AD case examined compared to controls (mean G αi level in AD was 43.5±7.4% of control). G αo levels were slightly decreased, but G αq and βγ were normal. Phospholipase C-β1, but not γ1, levels were also decreased. Total phospholipase C activity and ceramide levels were not changed. Thus, in AD, there is impairment in the G αi -associated signaling pathway in neurons.
STREPTOMYCIN AND SYNTROPHIC PRODIGIOSIN SYNTHESIS IN SERRATIA MARCESCENS.

The syntrophic synthesis of prodigiosin was studied using the non-pigmenting mutants ofSerratia marcescens, strains 9-3-3 and WF. Prodigiosin started to form syntrophically after the two strains were grown near one another for ca. 10 hr. Maximum pigmentation required ca. 20 hr. The lag period of 10 hr was used for forming the mono- and bipyrrole precursors of prodigiosin, a tripyrrole.
Characteristics of Outstanding Teachers: an Academic and Social Involvement Profile

(1988). Characteristics of Outstanding Teachers: an Academic and Social Involvement Profile. Action in Teacher Education: Vol. 10, Open Theme, pp. 93-99.
On a Transformation of Teukolsky's Equation and the Electromagnetic Perturbations of the Kerr Black Hole

Teukolsky's equation, governing the perturbations (scalar, electromagnetic, and gravitational) of the Kerr black hole, is transformed, by a simple change of variables, in a manner such that there is formally no difference in the treatments of the axisymmetric and the non-axisymmetric modes: the role of 'm' is effectively eliminated. By considering in detail the case of electromagnetic perturbations we show how, in all cases, the problems can be reduced to problems in the theory of penetration of one dimensional potential barriers with, however, certain novel features. The phenomenon of super-radiance, peculiar to the Kerr metric, emerges, for example, in an unexpected guise. The case of scalar perturbations is considered briefly in an appendix.
A rate promoted synergistic effect on the solvent extraction system Fe(III)-TTA-SCN☆

The promotion of the extraction rate of iron by TTA-benzene in the presence of ammonium thiocyanate was previously attributed to the rapid extraction of Fe(SCN)3 and the subsequent replacement of SCN− by TTA− in the organic phase. The replacement of the benzene solvent by a benzene-hexone mixture was found to yield both an even greater enhancement of the extraction rate and a definite synergism. It was confirmed that these effects are attributable to the mechanism previously proposed.
Zeolitization of Tuffaceous Rocks of the Green River Formation, Wyoming

The alkali-rich zeolites mordenite and clinoptilolite have been discovered in tuffaceous rocks of the Green River Formation, Wyoming. This occurrence strongly supports the alteration of glass to alkali-rich zeolite to analcime as the paragenetic sequence of alteration of tuffaceous rocks deposited in ancient Lake Gosiute.
A pH switch affects the steady-state kinetic mechanism of pyranose 2-oxidase from Trametes ochracea.

Abstract The flavin-dependent pyranose 2-oxidase catalyzes the oxidation of d -glucose and other pyranoses at the C2 atom to yield 2-keto-sugars and hydrogen peroxide. Here, the steady-state kinetic mechanism of the enzyme from Trametes ochracea was investigated as a function of pH. Our findings show that the enzyme follows a bi-bi ping-pong kinetic mechanism at pH values 7.0. Thus, at low pH the reactivity of the reduced enzyme with oxygen is controlled a by a conformational change of the enzyme that is associated with the release of the 2-keto-sugar from the active site of the enzyme. In contrast, at high pH the reduced enzyme–product complex permits the reaction of oxygen with the flavin. The study also illustrates that caution should be exerted in extrapolating the conclusions drawn on steady-state kinetic mechanisms established at a single pH value to other pH’s in flavoprotein oxidases.
Submillimeter measurements of isotopes of nitric acid

The ground and low-lying vibrational states of nitric acid are observable with current instrumentation in the Earth’s thermal submillimeter atmospheric emission. Remote sensing continues to improve to higher sensitivity and future missions will allow these measurements with minimal integration time. Sensing of weaker spectral features will require signal averaging, and choices of spectral windows for these features will require knowledge of the higher vibrational states and rare isotopes of the strongly emitting species. Nearly comprehensive information on vibrational states and isotopically substituted species is now available from wide bandwidth scans of natural and isotopically enriched nitric acid. In this work, ground state rotational spectra of five isotopically substituted species of nitric acid are analyzed in the submillimeter spectral range. We present the Hamiltonian parameters necessary for prediction and identification of isotopic features across the nitric acid ground state rotational spectrum.
Industry Diversity Effects on Job Mobility

The effect of industry variables on individual job mobility has been proposed as a promising new arena for research (Hannan 1988; Carroll, Haveman & Swaminathan 1992). This paper examines how the size diversity of organizations affects the rate of job moves within and out of industries. Using data on the career histones of a sample of Norwegian men from 1950 to 1971, this effect is modeled along with organizational and individual determinants of job mobility. The analyses show that organizational diversity promotes mobility within industries and dampens mobility out of industries, suggesting that the study of diversity offers new insights on job mobility processes and related outcomes.
Analysis of the impact of PHEVs on the electric power distribution network

As Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles (PHEVs) take a greater share in the personal automobile market, their penetration levels may bring potential challenges to electric utility especially at the distribution level. This presentation focuses on the impacts of PHEVs on a residential distribution network with different charging strategies. In this context the distribution transformer loading with PHEVs is discussed and some possible demand management strategies are suggested. The hourly load curves seen by a distribution transformer when PHEVs are charged based on different charging strategies are also presented. Our analysis shows that charging PHEVs in a residential distribution network will create new load peaks for a distribution transformer, thus reducing its operating efficiency. Furthermore, allowing quick charge may result in overloading of a distribution transformer. Some demand management strategies are discussed which may help to alleviate the new load peaks caused by PHEV penetration.