cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
The influence of nearest‐neighboring amino acid residues on aspects of secondary structure of proteins. Attempts to locate α‐helices and β‐sheets

The influence of nearest-neighbor pairs of amino acids (n − 1) and (n + 1) on the conformation of amino acid (n) in proteins has been studied. From experimental data on eleven proteins of known three dimensional structures, our definition of an α-helical domain in the Φ,Ψ plot has been reexamined and found to be satisfactory. On the same principle, a regular β-sheet domain has been delineated. We then revised our 20 × 20 table of frequencies of occurrences of various conformations tabulating three values: α-helical, β-sheet, and neither. These frequencies were then used to locate the helixbreaking positions in cytochrome b5, papain, thermolysin, and calcium-binding protein. In conjuction with the helical wheel method, they were useful for predicting the locations of most α-helical segments. Similarly the β-sheet breaking positions in papain were located and most of the β-sheets found by X-ray diffraction were close to or between these positions. Data on β-sheets are extremely sparse so that extensive tests were not possible. The application of this method to abnormal hemoglobins suggested possible distortions of helices and in several instances correlated with abnormal properties of the hemoglobins and association with disease. The variable region of human immunoglobin heavy chains was found to have a very low α-helical content though β-sheet structures might exist.
Proton MR spectroscopic imaging of the medulla and cervical spinal cord.

Purpose To demonstrate the feasibility of quantitative, one-dimensional proton MR spectroscopic imaging (1D-MRSI) of the upper cervical spine and medulla at 3.0 Tesla. Materials and Methods A method was developed for 1D-point-resolved spectroscopy sequence (PRESS)-MRSI, exciting signal in five voxels extending from the pontomedullary junction to the level of the C3 vertebra, and performed in 10 healthy volunteers to generate control data. Results High-resolution 1D-MRSI data were obtained from all 10 subjects. Upper cervical spine concentrations of choline, creatine, and N-acetyl aspartate were estimated to be 2.8 ± 0.5, 8.8 ± 1.8, and 10.9 ± 2.7 mM, respectively, while in the medulla they were 2.6 ± 0.5, 9.1 ± 1.7, and 10.8 ± 0.9 mM. Conclusion Quantitative 1D-MRSI of the upper cervical spine has been shown to be feasible at 3.0 Tesla. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2007;26:1101–1105. © 2007 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
Do Country Level Investor Protections Impact Security Level Contract Design? Evidence from Foreign Bond Covenants

This paper studies the ability of security-level contracts to substitute for poor country-level investor protections. Using a cross-country sample of restrictive covenants, we find that bond contacts are more likely to include covenants when creditor protection laws are weak. Further, the use of restrictive covenants in weak creditor protection countries is associated with a lower cost of debt. We also find that strong country-level shareholder rights are not necessarily harmful to bondholders. Overall, our findings suggest issuers and investors can create international contracts that overcome some of the deficiencies of country-level investor protections and facilitate access to external finance.
Indigeneity across borders: Hemispheric migrations and cosmopolitan encounters

The increasing migration of indigenous people from Latin America to the United States signals a new horizon for the study of indigeneity—complexly understood as subjectivities, knowledge, and practices of the earliest human inhabitants of a particular place and including legal and racial identities that refer to these people. Focusing on indigenous migration to San Francisco, California, I explore how government, service providers, and community organizations respond to the arrival of new ethnic groups while also contributing to an expanding Urban Indian collective identity. In addition to reviewing such governmental practices as the creation of new census categories and related responses to indigenous ethnic diversity, I illustrate how some members of a diverse Urban Indian population unite through participation in rituals such as the Maya Waqxaqi’ B’atz’ (Day of Human Perfection), transplanted to San Francisco from Guatemala. The rituals recall homelands near and far in a broader social imagination about being and belonging in the world. The social imagination, borne in part through migration and diaspora, acknowledges the local and the particular in a framework of shared values about what it means to be human. I analyze this meaning making as cosmopolitanism in practice. By merging indigeneity and cosmopolitanism, I join other scholars who strive to decenter classical notions of cosmopolitan “worldliness,” drawing attention to alternative sources of beneficent sociality and for cultivating humanity.
Coherence theory of the strong ignition limit

Shock-induced ignition of explosive gases can be either “mild” or “strong,” depending on whether the combustion process manifests itself first in the form of flame kernels (or hot spots) or by a blast wave. On the basis of experimental evidence it has been shown that the strong ignition limit delineating the boundary between the two modes of autoignition corresponds to a fixed value of the partial derivative of induction time with respect to temperature at constant pressure. Here a rational theory for this fact is derived on the basis of the postulate that the chemical process is initiated within a set of distinct reaction centers and that for the strong ignition to develop the power pulses of heat released in these centers per unit mass of the reacting medium must be sufficiently coherent in time.
Vertical-cavity X-modulators for WDM

We have developed a conservative and reversible optoelectronic intensity modulator. Two of the inputs are optical and the third in the device's initial implementation is an electrical control signal. The device is essentially a controllable optical routing element. In one state beams incident from opposite sides of the device are reflected and in the other state they are transmitted. Using arrays of these devices, various switching networks can be constructed, including crossbar switches and other regular or irregular architectures. The device itself is composed of quantum wells in a Fabry-Perot cavity. Our device is grown using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and can be realized using several materials systems, so that varying wavelengths of operation can be obtained. In addition, the radial thickness non uniformity due to rotation during MBE growth can be exploited to obtain devices operating at different wavelengths on the same wafer. The design of the devices or arrays of devices can be focused on optimizing bandwidth, modulation ratio, voltage, or change in reflectivity, depending on the desired application. In this work we will describe the use of the devices for several systems applications and discuss some further refinements to the device that make it more useful in a systems context.
Variability in Specific Yield under Shallow Water Table Conditions

Investigation is provided concerning the variable behavior of specific yield ( SY ) under shallow water table conditions ( <2 m below land surface). Traditionally, specific yield has been defined as the water released from pumping of a phreatic aquifer down by a unit head. It is often used as a fixed value in groundwater flow models. This study seeks to elucidate SY variability due to natural processes of evapotranspiration (ET) and recharge. SY variability is of fundamental importance for modeling hydrologic response from stresses and for determination of water budget of a catchment. HYDRUS 1D—a numerical model solving Richard’s equation for saturated—unsaturated flow in one dimension is used to simulate the behavior of specific yield for a soil type representative of west central Florida. It was found, that for various cases examined (e.g., ET and infiltration), the magnitude of specific yield varied with depth to water table. For infiltration response, the variation in the specific yield exhibited stro...
Expert witnesses, nonexpert witnesses, and nonwitness experts

The role and responsibilities of the expert winness is a controversial subject. This article emphasizes the legal rules (of evidence and procedure) governing the expert and the policy grounds on which they rest. As the law's policies for the use of expertise shift from stage as stage as litigation progresses, or differ between categories of legal cases (criminal vs. civil), or with a party's use of an expert (from being a nonwitness consultant to an expert witness at trial), the law expects the role of the expert to be reshaped accordingly. On some important issues, the law sends contradictory messages: What its formal rules announce is at war with its structure and practices. And these, in turn, sometimes are in tension with the demands of the expert's professional ethical codes. On other matters of importance to experts, the law is silent, because the rules were motivated by a need to control the behavior of parties and lawyers, not experts. The result of all this is to present those who would be conscientious expert witnesses with a need to resolve nearly impossible role conflicts and ethical dilemmas.
An experimental study of process representation approaches and their impact on perceived modeling quality and redesign success

Purpose – The purpose of research is to examine the communication optimization theory by comparing two business process representation approaches and related redesign guidelines through an experiment.Design/methodology/approach – The experiment examined two process representation approaches involving 114 subjects. Each method gravitated around a different business process representation – one placed emphasis on business process activities and their sequencing, and the other on the web of communication interactions found in business processes.Findings – The key finding was that an emphasis on a communication‐oriented view of processes seems to increase perceived modeling quality and redesign success.Research limitations/implications – Data were collected from various information systems classes at a university. The participants were not redesign team members in an actual organizational redesign project. Future studies should focus on the characteristics of the designers.Practical implications – The finding...
Mechanical and radiographic properties of a shape memory polymer composite for intracranial aneurysm coils

Abstract An intracranial aneurysm can be a serious condition that can go undetected until the aneurysm ruptures, causing hemorrhaging within the subarachnoid space surrounding the brain. The typical treatment for large aneurysms is by embolization using platinum coils. However, in about 15% of the cases treated by platinum coils, the aneurysm eventually re-opens as a result of the bio-inertness of platinum. One solution to this is to develop suitable materials with increased bio-activity to use as coil implants. In this research, a shape memory polymer (SMP), Calomer™, produced by The Polymer Technology Group, Inc., was investigated as a candidate for aneurysm coils. The SMP was tested to determine its thermo-mechanical properties and the strength of the shape recovery force. Composite SMP specimens containing tantalum filler were produced and tested to determine the mechanical effect of adding this radio-opaque metal. Thermo-mechanical testing showed that the material exhibited a shape recovery force a few degrees above the glass transition temperature, T g . The effects of the addition were small and included a decrease in T g and recovery force. SMP coils deployed inside a simulated aneurysm model demonstrate that typical hemodynamic forces do not hinder the shape recovery process. The radio-opacity of the Ta-filled material was characterized with clinical fluoroscopy.
The clinical utility of the tactual performance test (TPT): Issues of lateralization and cognitive style

Abstract Four clinical cases are presented which demonstrate the importance of including the Tactual Performance Test (TPT) in an investigation of a patient's neuropsychological strengths and weaknesses. Each patient's performance reveals interesting quantitative information about the integrity of their cerebral functions. Empirical studies investigating lateralization of cerebral function and TPT performance are cited. The degree to which patients' preferred mode of information processing influences their performance on this test is also discussed. Recommendations are made for an investigation into the qualitative nature of the TPT time and recall phases and implications for neuropsychological rehabilitation are discussed.
DEVELOPMENT AND ANALYSIS OF INPUT-OUTPUT RELATIONS FOR IRRIGATION WATER

Recent developments in climatology mean that economists now have a highly acceptable physical theory which can underlie their analysis of the economic aspects of water as an input to the production process, as a source of production instability, and as a major component of error in their estimated crop production functions. This paper presents a model and a procedure for synthesising and analysing irrigation water crop input output relations based on this theory. The importance of time of application of water as well as quantity is shown. Different frequencies of irrigation are optimal at different times of the growing season.
Nanopore wall effect on surface tension of methane

Local pressure is known to be anisotropic across the interfaces separating fluids in equilibrium. Tangential pressure profiles show characteristic negative peaks as a result of surface tension forces parallel to the interface. Nearby attractive forces parallel to the interface are larger than the repulsive forces and, hence, constitute the surface tension. In this work, using molecular dynamics simulations of methane inside nano-scale pores, we show this surface tension behaviour could be significantly influenced by confinement effects. The layering structure, characterised by damped oscillations in local liquid density and tangential pressures, extends deep into the pore and can be a few nanometers thick. The surface tension is measured numerically using local pressures across the interface. Results show that the tension is smaller under confinement and becomes a variable in small pores, mainly controlled by the thickness of the liquid density layering (or liquid saturation) and the pore width. If the li...
l-NAME–induced neutrophil accumulation in rat lung is not entirely because of interactions with L- and P-selectins or CD18

Abstract Background/Purpose Nitric oxide (NO) is a known selective dilator of the pulmonary vascular tree. There is evidence that it also plays a role in diminishing neutrophil adherence to vascular endothelial cells. Close examination of these effects of NO on the pulmonary microcirculation is essential to our understanding of its mechanisms of action as well as its potential as a therapeutic agent to reduce neutrophil sequestration, and its subsequent damage, in a variety of conditions that cause lung injury and inflammation. This study explores the mechanism by which endogenous NO influences neutrophil-endothelial cell interactions by examining the effects of the adhesion molecule blockers, fucoidin, and anti-CD18 antibody. Methods Lung samples from 10 sets of rats (n = 4 for each study group) were studied. Each rat received an intravenous bolus of normal saline, fucoidin, or anti-CD18 antibody, followed by a 1-hour infusion of normal saline or Nω -nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME) at 2 mg kg −1 min −1 . The accumulation of neutrophils within the lungs was assessed quantitatively by myeloperoxidase assay. Results Fucoidin application decreased some neutrophil activity, but this may have been independent of the effects on l-NAME activity. The anti-CD18 pretreatment did not have a significant effect on any of the groups in the presence or absence of l-NAME. Conclusions These data indicate that l-NAME does not conclusively produce its associated increase in neutrophil activity in the baseline state of the lungs via an interaction with l-selectin, P-selectin, or CD18. Rather, the inhibition of NO may lead to the expression of a different adhesion molecule or factor that is normally not expressed in the presence of NO. Endogenous NO may also possibly influence neutrophil-endothelial interaction by affecting hemodynamics rather than actions of adhesion molecules.
Toward robust AV conferencing on next-generation networks

In order to enable a truly pervasive computing environment, next generation networks (including B3G and 4G) will merge the broadband wireless and wireline networking infrastructure. However, due to the tremendous complexity in administration and the unreliability of the wireless channel, provision of hard-guarantees for services on such networks will not happen in the foreseeable future. This consequently makes it particularly challenging to offer viable AV conferencing services due to their stringent synchronization, delay and data fidelity requirements. We propose in this paper a robust application-level solution for wireless mobile AV conferencing on B3G/4G networks. Expecting no special treatment from the network, we apply a novel adaptive delay and synchronization control mechanism to maintain the synchronization and reduce the latency as much as possible. We also employ a robust video coding technique that has better error-resilience capability. We investigate the performance of the proposed solution through simulations using a three-state hidden Markov chain as the generic end-to-end transport channel model. The results show that our scheme yields tight synchronization performance, relatively low end-to-end latency and satisfactory presentation quality. The scheme successfully provides a fairly robust AV conferencing service.
Particle Dynamics and Particle Heat and Mass Transfer in Thermal Plasmas. Part II. Particle Heat and Mass Transfer in Thermal Plasmas

This paper is concerned with a review of heat and mass transfer between thermal plasmas and particulate matter. In this situation various effects which are not present in ordinary heat and mass transfer have to be considered, including unsteady conditions, modified convective heat transfer due to strongly varying plasma properties, radiation, internal conduction, particle shape, vaporization and evaporation, noncontinuum conditions, and particle charging. The results indicate that (i) convective heat transfer coefficients have to be modified due to strongly varying plasma properties; (ii) vaporization, defined as a mass transfer process corresponding to particle surface temperatures below the boiling point, describes a different particle heating history than that of the evaporation process which, however, is not a critical control mechanism for interphase mass transfer of particles injected into thermal plasmas; (iii) particle heat transfer under noncontinuum conditions is governed by individual contributions from the species in the plasma (electrons, ions, neutral species) and by particle charging effects.
A comparison of thrombolytic therapy with operative revascularization in the initial treatment of acute peripheral arterial ischemia

Abstract Purpose: Despite the widespread use of intraarterial thrombolytic therapy for peripheral arterial occlusive disease, a randomized study comparing its efficacy with that of operative intervention has never been performed. This study evaluates the potential of intraarterial urokinase infusion to provide clinical benefits in patients with acute peripheral arterial occlusion. Methods: Patients with limb-threatening ischemia of less than 7 days' duration were randomly assigned to intraarterial catheter-directed urokinase therapy or operative intervention. Anatomic lesions unmasked by thrombolysis were treated with balloon dilation or operation. The primary end points of the study were limb salvage and survival. Results: A total of 57 patients were randomized to the thrombolytic therapy group, and 57 patients were randomized to the operative therapy group. Thrombolytic therapy resulted in dissolution of the occluding thrombus in 40 (70%) patients. Although the cumulative limb salvage rate was similar in the two treatment groups (82% at 12 months), the cumulative survival rate was significantly improved in patients randomized to the thrombolysis group (84% vs 58% at 12 months, p = 0.01). The mortality differences seemed to be primarily attributable to an increased frequency of in-hospital cardiopulmonary complications in the operative treatment group (49% vs 16%, p = 0.001). The benefits of thrombolysis were achieved without significant differences in the duration of hospitalization (median 11 days) and with only modest increases in hospital cost in the thrombolytic treatment arm (median $15,672 vs $12,253, p = 0.02). Conclusions: Intraarterial thrombolytic therapy was associated with a reduction in the incidence of in-hospital cardiopulmonary complications and a corresponding increase in patient survival rates. These benefits were achieved without an appreciable increase in the duration of hospitalization and with only modest increases in hospital cost, suggesting that thrombolytic therapy may offer a safe and effective alternative to operation in the initial treatment of patients diagnosed with acute limb-threatening peripheral arterial occlusion. (J VASC SURG 1994;19:1021–30.)
The acoustoelastic measurement of elastic constants in alumina/aluminum metal matrix composites

In this study, acoustoelastic testing is performed on alumina-reinforced aluminum 6061 alloy metal matrix composites. The MMCs consist of an aluminum 6061 matrix containing 0, 10, and 20 volume percentage alumina particulate reinforcements. Since the matrix and reinforcement have such disparate moduli, the second-order elastic constants of the composite should vary with the amount of reinforcement. In addition, the residual stresses that have developed during processing should have a significant effect on higher-order elastic constants. Bulk properties like Young`s and shear modulus are measured, as well as the higher-order elastic constants in an effort to monitor variations as a function of reinforcement.
Long-term effects of developmental halothane exposure on radial arm maze performance in rats

Chronic exposure of rats to low levels of halothane during development, a treatment which retards synaptogenesis, was found to cause a long-term impairment of choice accuracy in the radial-arm maze. In Expt. 1, the relative importance of dose level and dosing regimen was examined. Dose level seemed the more critical variable for causing impaired choice accuracy. Exposure to 100 parts per million (ppm) of halothane in the air either on an intermittent or continuous schedule from day two of conception until 60 days after birth significantly impaired choice accuracy, whereas exposure to 25 ppm on a continuous schedule did not cause a deficit, even though with this condition the total amount of halothane exposure was about the same as with 100 ppm given intermittently. In Expt. 2, the 100 ppm intermittent exposure regimen was used to examine the relative importance of exposure during early and late developmental periods for producing the cognitive effects of halothane. Groups were divided into those exposed to halothane during gestation and until 30 days after birth (early exposure), those exposed from day 31 until day 90 (late exposure) and those exposed during both early and late periods (combined exposure). Adverse effects on choice accuracy were seen with all 3 types of exposure, but surprisingly, it was the late exposure that caused the most severe effects. These results show that developmental exposure to halothane which impairs synaptogenesis also causes long-lasting cognitive impairment. Halothane exposure can be a useful experimental tool for examining the relationship between synaptic and behavioral development.
A low-noise SIS receiver measured from 480 GHz to 650 GHz using Nb junctions with integrated RF tuning circuits

A heterodyne receiver using an SIS waveguide mixer with two mechanical tuners has been characterized from 480 GHz to 650 GHz. The mixer uses either a single 0.5 × 0.5 µm2 Nb/AlOx/Nb SIS tunnel junction or a series array of two 1 µm2 Nb tunnel junctions. These junctions have a high current density, in the range 8 – 13 kA/cm2. Superconductive RF circuits are employed to tune the junction capacitance. DSB receiver noise temperatures as low as 200 ± 17 K at 540 GHz, 271 K ± 22 K at 572 GHz and 362 ± 33 K at 626 GHz have been obtained with the single SIS junctions. The series arrays gave DSB receiver noise temperatures as low as 328 ± 26 K at 490 GHz and 336 ± 25 K at 545 GHz. A comparison of the performances of series arrays and single junctions is presented. In addition, negative differential resistance has been observed in the DC I–V curve near 490, 545 and 570 GHz. Correlations between the frequencies for minimum noise temperature, negative differential resistance, and tuning circuit resonances are found. A detailed model to calculate the properties of the tuning circuits is discussed, and the junction capacitance as well as the London penetration depth of niobium are determined by fitting the model to the measured circuit resonances.
Sorting on a ring of processors

Abstract We study the time necessary to sort on a ring of processors. We show that the amount of space available to each processor determines the time required. We prove a lower bound of 2[ n 2 ] − 1 steps for sorting on a ring of n processors, under the constraint that each processor retains only a single value at any time. In contrast, we show an algorithm that sorts in [ n 2 ] + 1 steps if each processor is allowed to store six values.
Revascularization Following a Combined Gingival Flap‐Split Thickness Flap Procedure in Monkeys

A combined technique (gingival flap-split thickness flap) was performed in monkeys. The clinical, histological and microvascular aspects of healing were studied, mainly focusing on the gingival flap, since some of the vessels supplying this area were severed during the second phase of the procedure. The animals were perfused with a combined solution of Pelikan carbon black and 10% formalin solution and killed from 1 to 35 days postoperatively. Cleared specimens and regular histology were obtained. It was concluded that: (1) the remaining periosteal vessels and surrounding structures provided enough nutrition for the survival of the gingival flap, (2) the microvascularization was normal at the 14 days postoperative period in both the gingival flap and the apically positioned split areas and (3) the exposed connective tissue remained narrow and exhibited an irregular vascular arrangement throughout the experiment.
A randomized phase II trial of amifostine for head and neck irradiation in lymphoma.

Acute and long-term oral complications occur in patients receiving mantle radiation therapy or irradiation to the head and neck region for Hodgkin’s disease or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. While considerable data are available on the effect of radiation therapy on the oral function and quality of life of patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, such information is lacking for similarly irradiated lymphoma patients. In this article we discuss the rationale and study design of an ongoing, randomized phase II study evaluating the role of amifostine (Ethyol; Medimmune Inc, Gaithersburg, MD) as a radiation protectant in patients receiving head and neck irradiation for lymphoma. Further investigation in this lymphoma population is needed to improve our understanding of the extent of the problem and its impact on patients’ daily living and functioning. Importantly, fine-tuning the treatment and management approaches to minimize morbidity while maximizing the survival and quality of life of patients are crucial next steps.
Sensitivities in the production of spread-out Bragg peak dose distributions by passive scattering with beam current modulation

A spread-out Bragg peak (SOBP) is used in proton beam therapy to create a longitudinal conformality of the required dose to the target. In order to create this effect in a passive beam scattering system, a variety of components must operate in conjunction to produce the desired beam parameters. We will describe how the SOBP is generated and will explore the tolerances of the various components and their subsequent effect on the dose distribution. A specific aspect of this investigation includes a case study involving the use of a beam current modulated system. In such a system, the intensity of the beam current can be varied in synchronization with the revolution of the range-modulator wheel. As a result, the weights of the pulled-back Bragg peaks can be individually controlled to produce uniform dose plateaus for a large range of treatment depths using only a small number of modulator wheels.
Teaching and learning in a model-based action research course

We describe an action research course from the point of view of our joint participation as instructor and student. The course is structured and its process is driven by the instructor's model of action research. We discuss the demands that the model places on participants as they develop individual plans for action research. The article concludes with our reflection on participants' experiences and a discussion of assumptions that inform course design and process.
Helping students make meaning of authentic investigations: findings from a student-teacher-scientist partnership

As student–teacher–scientist partnerships become more widespread, there is a need for research to understand the roles assumed by scientists and teachers as they interact with students in general and in inquiry learning environments in particular. Although teacher roles during inquiry learning have been studied, there is a paucity of research about the roles that scientists assume in their interactions with students. Socio-cultural perspectives on learning emphasize social interaction as a means for students to make meaning of scientific ideas. Thus, this naturalistic study of classroom discourse aims to explore the ways scientists and teachers help high school students make meaning during authentic inquiry investigations. Conversational analysis is conducted of video recordings of discussions between students and teachers and students and scientists from two instances of a student–teacher–scientist partnership program. A social semiotic analytic framework is used to interpret the actions of scientists and teachers. The results indicate a range of common and distinct roles for scientists and teachers with respect to the conceptual, social, pedagogical, and epistemological aspects of meaning making. While scientists provided conceptual and epistemological support related to their scientific expertise, such as explaining scientific phenomena or aspects of the nature of science, teachers played a critical role in ensuring students’ access to this knowledge. The results have implications for managing the division of labor between scientists and teachers in partnership programs.
Anticonvulsant profile of the progesterone metabolite 5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one

5 alpha-Pregnan-3 alpha-ol-20-one (3 alpha-OH-DHP) is a naturally occurring metabolite of progesterone that can modulate brain excitability through a specific steroid recognition site on the GABA/benzodiazepine receptor-chloride ionophore complex. The anticonvulsant properties of 3 alpha-OH-DHP were determined using standardized anticonvulsant screening tests in mice. This steroid was found to be effective against metrazol-, (+)-bicuculline- and picrotoxin-induced seizures. The steroid has maximum potency against (+)-bicuculline-induced convulsions and no activity against maximal electroshock and strychnine-induced seizures. These findings support the hypothesis that therapeutically useful anticonvulsant steroids active at the putative steroid recognition site associated with the GABA/benzodiazepine receptor-chloride ionophore complex can be identified.
Release of a Guinea Pig Epidermal Cellular Component by Ultraviolet Light

The 25,000 × g supernatants obtained from UV irradiated epidermis homogenized in 0.3 M sucrose are more opalescent than are similar preparations from non-irradiated skin. These fractions from UV irradiated guinea pig epidermis contain more cholestrol (as free cholesterol) and protein than do similar preparations from non-irradiated skins. The protein associated with this material had an electrophoretic mobility similar to the α-globulins and was immunologically identical to a serum α-globulin. Electron microscopic examination showed the material had a spheroidal, globular appearance lacking definite structure. The material released by UV was also found to be immunologically, electrophoretically and chromatographically similar to material released by incubation of non-irradiated epidermal preparations with phospholipase A.
Correction to “Signatures of nonlinear charged particle dynamics in Geotail comprehensive plasma instrument observations”

[1] During the preparation of an article in which we exploit the methodology presented in the paper ‘‘Signatures of nonlinear charged particle dynamics in Geotail comprehensive plasma instrument observations’’ by D. L. Holland, W. R. Paterson, L. A. Frank, S. Kokubun, and Y. Yamamoto (Journal of Geophysical Research, 104, 2479, 1999), we came across two errors. Neither of them undermines the basic conclusion that the ion energy resonance signature allows one to infer a lot of information about the mesoscale current sheet structure. It is, however, important to correct the errors since they directly affect the application of the technique. [2] The first error concerns the derivation of equation used for inferring current sheet topology from the resonance peak. The proper derivation is as follows. In their original paper describing the energy resonance phenomena, Burkhart and Chen [1991] followed an source distribution of particles through the modified Harris magnetic field
Imagining the Impossible

If I can imagine X, then X is not logically impossible. If X can be thought, then “X” is consistent. If one could draw a picture of X, then “X” is not self-contradictory.
Difficulty and Modern Poetry

This article examines and expands upon criticism on difficulty, in literature and in other arts, in order to gain theoretical and practical perspective on key questions relating to modern poetry and to poetic difficulty (if not to difficulty in all art). Topics addressed include: the implications of ‘difficulty’ as concept and term, the importance of modernism to our understanding and evaluation of difficulty, what characterizes modern difficulty (difficulty since romanticism), how to account for modern difficulty, how difficulty informs and is informed by postmodern and other perspectives since modernism, the significance and qualities of poetic difficulty, the theoretical challenges of discussing difficulty as something experience by a reader (rather than as an intrinsic property of a text), and difficulty as an aesthetic (a topic that involves discussion of simplicity as an aesthetic and discussion of difficulty as a necessary aesthetic). Beyond its theoretical and historical claims regarding modern poetry, difficulty, and modernism, this article argues for more sustained consideration of the experience of reading in interpretation and for more nuanced aesthetic evaluation in criticism.
Acousto-optic phase modulation properties of coaxially-deposited ZnO transducers on single-mode fibers

The acoustooptic (AO) phase modulation properties of coaxially deposited zinc oxide (ZnO) transducers on single mode optical fibers have been experimentally and theoretically investigated at several laboratories over the past 15 years. Maximum phase shifts are observed at distinct frequencies, corresponding to bulk acoustic waves in the fiber, over the transducer operating range of 200 MHz to 1.0 GHz. Phase shift values have been measured with both cw and pulsed signal inputs to the transducers from milliwatts to above 1 Watt. Transducer lengths have been varied from 30 mm to 2 mm to determine the effects of AO phase shift on the length of the interaction. Modulation efficiencies in the range of 0.2 to 0.3 radians per square root of input power (in mW) per centimeter, for 2 to 6 mm interaction lengths, have been observed at frequencies in the 200 to 400 MHz region corresponding to acoustic wavelengths on the order of the core dimensions of the optical fiber. The characteristics and capabilities of AO modulation in optical fibers with deposited coaxial ZnO transducers is discussed using examples from experimental work.
Computerized Tomography Using Video Recorded Fluoroscopic Images

In this paper we investigate the possibility of constructing computerized tomograms using data collected from a fluoroscopic system. It is shown that through proper handling of these data, useful images can be obtained. The system offers the advantages of eliminating the need for a highly stabilized, linear translating mechanism, and also of requiring relatively low patient dosage. In addition, the data gathering can be done in essentially real time.
Comparative sensitivity of five fish cell lines to wild type infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus from two Oregon sources

. Five fish cell lines (CHSE-214, STE-137, RTG-2, EPC and FHM) were compared for sensitivity to infectious haematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) from samples obtained from naturally-infected fish. Infectious ovarian fluids were obtained from steelhead trout, Salmo gairdneri Richardson, at the Round Butte Hatchery in central Oregon and tissue homogenates were prepared from chinook salmon, Oncorhynchus tshawytscha (Walbaum), alevins during an IHN virus epizootic at the Elk River Hatchery in coastal Oregon. The only lines to show characteristic viral cytopathology by plaque or end-point dilution assay for the steelhead trout virus isolate were the EPC and FHM cell lines. The chinook salmon isolates produced CPE in CHSE-214, STE-137, FHM and EPC cells. The titre of the salmon virus isolate was 10-50-fold higher on FHM and EPC cells by both assay methods. Neither by end-point nor plaque assay did the Round Butte or Elk River isolates produce CPE on RTG-2 cells. With both virus isolants both cell lines showed that greater sensitivity was obtained with plaque assay than with end-point titration. Pre-treatment of the cells with the polycation, polybrene, did not increase the virus titre in either assay. However, a transient enhancement in virus titre was observed in polybrene-treated STE-137 and CHSE-214 cells.
An Empirical Evaluation of Behavioral Models Based on Decompositions of Stock Prices

Several behavioral models have been proposed to explain the observed short‐horizon continuation and long‐horizon reversals in returns. We employ a time‐series framework of identifying tangible and intangible information based on two valuation models: the conventional dividend discount model and the residual income model. We find investors overreact to intangible information but underreact initially to tangible information, with no significant reversal associated with tangible information in the long run. Our finding is compatible with models incorporating investors’ overconfidence in their private information. We also find that the residual income model provides a better valuation than the dividend discount model.
Exogenous Gangliosides: How Do They Cross the Blood‐Brain Barrier and How Do They Inhibit Cell Proliferation?a

Gangliosides have been used to treat specific central nervous system lesions and to inhibit proliferation of neuroblastoma cells in vitro. However, the mechanisms by which they (1) cross the blood-brain barrier and (2) inhibit cell proliferation have not been clearly defined. Evidence is presented in support of the hypotheses that (1) serum albumin functions in the transport of gangliosides across the blood-brain barrier, and (2) when gangliosides inhibit cell proliferation, they do so by inhibiting the activity of DNA polymerases alpha and beta.
Prediction of the binding affinities of peptides to class II MHC using a regularized thermodynamic model

The binding of peptide fragments of extracellular peptides to class II MHC is a crucial event in the adaptive immune response. Each MHC allotype generally binds a distinct subset of peptides and the enormous number of possible peptide epitopes prevents their complete experimental characterization. Computational methods can utilize the limited experimental data to predict the binding affinities of peptides to class II MHC. We have developed the Regularized Thermodynamic Average, or RTA, method for predicting the affinities of peptides binding to class II MHC. RTA accounts for all possible peptide binding conformations using a thermodynamic average and includes a parameter constraint for regularization to improve accuracy on novel data. RTA was shown to achieve higher accuracy, as measured by AUC, than SMM-align on the same data for all 17 MHC allotypes examined. RTA also gave the highest accuracy on all but three allotypes when compared with results from 9 different prediction methods applied to the same data. In addition, the method correctly predicted the peptide binding register of 17 out of 18 peptide-MHC complexes. Finally, we found that suboptimal peptide binding registers, which are often ignored in other prediction methods, made significant contributions of at least 50% of the total binding energy for approximately 20% of the peptides. The RTA method accurately predicts peptide binding affinities to class II MHC and accounts for multiple peptide binding registers while reducing overfitting through regularization. The method has potential applications in vaccine design and in understanding autoimmune disorders. A web server implementing the RTA prediction method is available at http://bordnerlab.org/RTA/ .
John Langston Gwaltney (1928–1998)

Adair, John 1944 The Navajo and Pueblo Silversmiths. SantaFe: University of New Mexico Press. 1948 A Study of Culture Resistance: The Veterans of World War II at Zuni Pueblo. Ph.D. dissertation, Department of Anthropology, University of New Mexico. Adair, John, Kurt Deuschle, and Clifford Barnett 1970 The People's Health. New York: Appleton CenturyCrofts. Revised edition, Albuquerque: University of New Mexico Press, 1988. Bunker, Robert Manson, and John Adair 1959 First Look at Strangers. New Brunswick, NJ: Rutgers University Press. Worth, Sol, and John Adair 1975 Through Navajo Eyes: An Exploration in Film Communication and Anthropology. Albuquerque: University of New Mexico Press. Revised edition, 1997.
Injuries and Risk Factors for Injuries from the 29 May 1982 Tornado, Marion, Illinois

On 29 May 1982, a tornado struck Marion, Illinois. As a result, ten people were killed, 38 were hospitalized, and 196 were examined in hospital emergency rooms. In order to describe injuries and to identify risk factors that might have increased or reduced the risk of injuries, we (1) conducted a telephone survey of all persons we could identify who were in the path of the tornado and (2) reviewed the emergency room logs and records and admission files of hospitals that provided initial care. Overall, 19.3% of people who were in the path of the tornado were injured during the impact. Only 39.0% of people examined in emergency rooms were injured as a direct result of the impact. The remainder were injured while rescuing, cleaning up, or just walking in the disaster area. Behaviours that were most protective were being in a house on the lowest floor, staying underground in a basement, protecting one's body with something like a blanket, and staying away from windows. Neither lying down nor opening doors or windows seemed to decrease the risk of being injured. Our results emphasize the need for early warnings and public education about protective behaviours. Language: en
Measurement of OH rotational temperatures in a flame using degenerate four-wave mixing.

Temperatures have been measured in a laminar premixed propane–air diffusion flame using degenerate four-wave mixing (DFWM) of the OH radical. The spectra were recorded simultaneously with laser-induced fluorescence through the (0, 0) band of the OH A2Σ–X2II transition. Individual rotational lines are more clearly resolved in the DFWM spectrum than in the laser-induced fluorescence spectrum, although both are power broadened at laser intensities of 1–2 MW/cm2 at 307 nm. Rotational temperatures have been determined from the DFWM spectra and are in close agreement with temperatures measured with coherent anti-Stokes Raman spectroscopy of nitrogen.
University technology transfer: A conceptual model of impacting factors and phased process

This paper provides a comprehensive review of literature on university technology transfer. The success of nations depends on how efficient research can be translated into commercial products. Universities play a key role in this. There are two major areas that need to be understood to build an efficient technology transfer mechanisms. First are the characteristics of each university. The literature provides evidence that university characteristics play a role. Second is having right set of metrics. Therefore this paper concludes with a set of propositions for impacting factors and a proposed process made up of phases that can be used to measure the technology transfer success accurately.
Test results for the WAAS Signal Quality Monitor

The signal quality monitor (SQM) is an integrity monitor for the wide area augmentation system (WAAS). The monitor detects L1 signal waveform deformation of a GPS or a geosynchronous (GEO) satellite monitored by WAAS should that event occur. When a signal deformation occurs, the L1 correlation function measured by the receiver becomes distorted. The distortion will result in an error in the L1 pseudorange. The size of the error depends on the design characteristics of the user receiver. This paper describes test results for the WAAS SQM conducted using prototype software. There are two groups of test cases: the nominal testing and the negative path testing. For nominal test cases, recorded data are collected from a test facility in four 5-day periods. These four data sets include SQM correlation values for SV-receiver pairs, and satellite error bounds for satellites. They are used as input to the prototype. The prototype processes these data sets, executes the algorithm, and records test results. Parameters such as the "maximum median-adjusted detection metric over threshold" (i.e., the maximum detection test), "UDRE forwarded from upstream integrity monitors," and "UDRE supported by SQM" are shown and described. The magnitude of the maximum detection test for all GPS and GEO satellites are also shown. For negative path testing, this paper describes two example simulated signal deformation test cases. A 2-day data set is collected from the prototype. A few example ICAO signal deformations are simulated based on this data set and are inserted in different time slots in the 2-day period. The correlator measurements for selected satellites are pre- processed to simulate the signal deformation. The results demonstrate the sensitivity of the Signal Quality Monitor to the simulated deformation, and shows when the event is detected and subsequently cleared. It also shows that the SQM will not adversely affect WAAS performance.