cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Third Annual World Congress on the Insulin Resistance Syndrome: associated conditions.

This is the third of three articles reviewing presentations at the 3rd Annual World Congress on the Insulin Resistance Syndrome, San Francisco, California, 17–19 November 2005. Pamela Goodwin (Toronto, Canada) introduced the topic of insulin resistance and malignancy, pointing out that there is variation in cancer incidence around the world, with variations in diet and obesity as important determining factors, and perhaps with the insulin resistance syndrome (IRS) as the underlying state leading to both increased cancer risk and worse outcomes of cancers of breast, prostate, colon, and many other tissues. Mediators may include activation of tyrosine kinase signaling pathways of premalignant and malignant cells via the insulin, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, and IGF-2 receptors. Insulin receptors are present on normal breast, colorectal, and other cells, and in cancer cell lines, binding of the insulin receptor activates the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways, and insulin stimulates cell-cycle progression, with the potential to increase epithelial cell proliferation in colon and other tissues. Hormone receptor negative breast cancers, particularly those not expressing the progesterone receptor, may have increased signaling through the insulin receptor. There are two forms of the insulin receptor. The A form is mainly seen in the fetal state, and also in the adult central nervous system (CNS), with the B form seen in the adult. The A form has high-affinity IGF-2 binding, has mitogenic and antiapoptotic effects, and hybridizes with the IGF-1 receptor; therefore, a fruitful area of research in carcinogenesis may be the expression of this form of the insulin receptor. Gerald Reaven (Stanford, CA) noted that differential tissue insulin sensitivity may be important in the relationship between the IRS and malignancy. The dose-response curve of adipose tissue to insulin shows a greater degree of insulin effect than that seen in skeletal muscle. Similarly, in the IRS not every …
Theoretical Values for Magnetic Moments of μ-Mesonic atoms

Theoretical calculations of the magnetic moments of mu -mesic atoms are outlined. Significant corrections for elements measured experimentally are presented in tabular form. (L.N.N.)
Size-Maximal Symmetric Difference-Free Families of Subsets of [n]

Union-free families of subsets of [n] = {1, . . . , n} have been studied in Frankl and Furedi (Eur J Combin 5:127---131, 1984). In this paper, we provide a complete characterization of maximal symmetric difference-free families of subsets of [n].
Altered apolipoprotein E secretion in cytokine treated human astrocyte cultures

Apolipoprotein E (ApoE), postulated to be a major lipid carrier protein in brain, is synthesized and secreted primarily by astrocytes and is involved in brain development and repair. We have analyzed its secretion in primary cultures of older (high passage) slowly dividing and younger (lower passage) rapidly dividing fetal human astrocytes exposed to various inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, alone and in combination. ApoE secretion was reduced in high passage astrocytes when compared to lower passage astrocytes. A further reduction in ApoE secretion in high passage cells was consistently produced by the combination of cytokines interleukin 1 (IL-1) alpha and beta and interferon (IFN-gamma) cytokines or by the basic fibroblast growth factor (basic-FGF) alone. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) increased ApoE secretion. The combination of these cytokine effects in chronically degenerating brain regions of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases could reduce the amount of ApoE available for neuronal regeneration. EGF, or agents inducing EGF, could ameliorate these ApoE deficiencies.
THE FACTORS OF COAGULATION IN THE EXPERIMENTAL APLASTIC ANEMIA OF BENZOL POISONING, WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO THE ORIGIN OF PROTHROMBIN

1. Subcutaneous injections of benzol in rabbits produce marked destructive changes in the hematopoietic organs, especially in the myeloid tissue. 2. Benzol poisoning registers a change not only in the formed elements of the blood, but also in the factors of coagulation. 3. The circulating prothrombin is considerably reduced in amount and in most instances animals in which such a diminution occurs show aplasia of the bone marrow. 4. The association of extreme aplasia of the marrow without a fatal diminution in the circulating prothrombin suggests one of two possibilities: either other tissues and organs in addition to the bone marrow are concerned with prothrombin formation; or a minimum amount of myeloid tissue suffices to maintain the quantity of prothrombin above a dangerous level.
Treatment of Intracranial Vasospasm Following Subarachnoid Hemorrhage

Vasospasm has been a long known source of delayed morbidity and mortality in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage patients. Delayed ischemic neurologic deficits associated with vasospasm may account for as high as 50% of the deaths in patients who survive the initial period after aneurysm rupture and its treatment. The diagnosis and treatment of vasospasm has still been met with some controversy. It is clear that subarachnoid hemorrhage is best cared for in tertiary care centers with modern rescources and access to cerebral angiography. Ultimately, a high degree of suspicion for vasospasm must be kept during ICU care, and any signs or symptoms must be investigated and treated immediately to avoid permanent stroke and neurologic deficit. Treatment for vasospasm can occur through both ICU intervention and endovascular administration of intraarterial vasodilators and balloon angioplasty. The best outcomes are often attained when these methods are used in conjunction. The following article reviews the literature on cerebral vasospasm and its treatment and provides the authors' approach to treatment of these patients.
The glass forming ability of tellurites: a rigid polytope approach

The rigid polytope approach to understanding glass formation of Cooper and Gupta is modified to include lone-pair electron vertices as a geometrical constraint, a modification that is supported by ab initio calculations. The extended model provides an explanation for the very different glass forming abilities of silica, telluria and their alkali-modified forms with only minimal assumptions about their atomic structure.
Shear induced loss of saturation in a fluid infused swollen hyperelastic cylinder

We discuss a continuum model for the absorption and redistribution of fluid in swollen elastomers due to mechanical loading; and in particular distinguish between systems that are saturated with liquid and those that are not. To this end we consider a boundary value problem of radial displacement combined with azimuthal shear for an annular cylinder consisting of a fluid infused hyperelastic media. In the absence of load the elastomer deforms by free swelling, giving a homogeneous expansion in which the imbibed fluid is uniformly distributed. This free swelling is described by the theory of Flory and Rehner. We then consider the effect of various boundary displacements and tractions so as to study how this alters the uniform fluid distribution. This problem was previously considered by Wineman and Rajagopal for the case in which the lateral surfaces maintained the radius associated with free swelling. Here we consider certain generalizations in which the lateral surfaces may undergo not only a prescribed relative twist, but also radial displacement. This permits fluid to either enter or exit the cylinder. A numerical method is invoked to solve these boundary value problems using representative material parameters. Certain boundary tractions generate an overall volume increase after the free swelling. If the amount of available fluid is limited, this gives rise to the possibility of complete fluid absorption, whereupon the system is no longer saturated. It is found that the overall mechanical response after loss of saturation is stiffer than it would be if the system had remained saturated.
Beta decay studies of nuclei near 32Mg: Investigating the ν(f7/2)–(d3/2) inversion at the N=20 shell closure

Abstract 32 Mg lies within a region of deformed nuclei commonly referred to as the “island of inversion”. The β decay of 33 Al and 33 Mg has been studied to learn about nuclear structure near 32 Mg. Decay curves and precise half-life measurements are presented for both species. Gamma-ray spectra from correlated 33 Al decay events are also presented. The β -decay properties of 33 Al are shown to be well-described by an sd shell model calculation, suggesting that the ground state of 33 Al lies primarily outside the island of inversion.
Using multiplayer games to teach interprocess communication mechanisms

An advanced operating system (OS) course teaches students how the OS mechanisms that they have learned in OS I are implemented. Solaris and Windows NT are used to illustrate these implementations. This course covers the major aspects of OS functionality and addresses both OS design issues and user level programming issues. The area of inter-process communication is not conceptually difficult for students to grasp, but the actual implementation and use of these concepts requires some practice. For the past three years, the author has experimented with the use of multi-player games as a mechanism for teaching students these programming constructs. This paper reports on these experiences.
The Dynamics of an Annular Piezoelectric Motor Stator

Abstract The development of piezoelectric motors has spurred an interest in the vibration characteristics of plates laminated with piezoelectric materials. In particular, this paper details the study of an annular plate composed of one stainless steel lamina and either one or two piezoelectric laminae, a common configuration for piezoelectric motors. The stainless steel later has teeth milled into the top surface for improved motor behavior. The motion of the teeth is an important characteristic of the motor's performance and is described in detail in this paper. An analytical technique is developed that determines the vibration of the laminate given the input into the piezoelectric layers, and predicts the resulting motion of the teeth.
Pleasure-arousal-dominance: A general framework for describing and measuring individual differences in Temperament

Evidence bearing on the Pleasure-Arousal-Dominance (PAD) Emotional State Model was reviewed and showed that its three nearly orthogonal dimensions provided a sufficiently comprehensive description of emotional states. Temperament was defined as average emotional state across a representative sample of life situations. The Pleasure-Arousability-Dominance (PAD) Temperament Model was described. Evidence relating the PAD Temperament Model to 59 individual difference measures was reviewed. Formulas were offered for use of P, A, and D temperament scores to compute and predict a variety of personality scores (e.g., Anxiety, Depression, Panic, Somatization, Empathy, Affiliation, Achievement, Extroversion, Arousal Seeking, Loneliness, Neuroticism, Suicide Proneness, Binge Eating, Substance Abuse, Emotional Stability, Dependency, Aggressiveness, and Fidgeting).
Can we develop a “Dream Catcher Test?”: A Novel Approach to the Study of Consciousness

Inner Presence: Consciousness as a Biological Phenomenon , by Antti Revonsuo. 2006. Cambridge, Massachusetts, MIT Press, 473 pp., $55.00 (HB). In his Prologue, Antti Revonsuo describes the main task of his book: “To depict a biological research program on consciousness.” (pg. xviii). He is interested in drawing upon proven research strategies to describe how we can study consciousness from a biological perspective that would allow us to ultimately answer the question: “What the place of the subjective psychological reality is in the physical universe?” (pg. xvi). In short, why has consciousness as a biological reality emerged to aid the process of evolution?
Health care cost-recovery simulations from parametric estimates: methodology and results for Ogun State, Nigeria.

Cost recovery in the health care sector in developing countries can be a powerful tool for achieving efficiency and equity goals, and for mobilizing financial resources for the improvement of quality. However, there is only fragmentary empirical evidence on the revenue, quality and cost effects of cost-recovery policies in the health care sector. Using parameter estimates from cost and demand functions that were derived from data from a facility and household interview survey in Ogun State, Nigeria, this article simulates various cost-recovery scenarios for the public sector. The empirical results of the simulations show that, under certain realistic scenarios, cost recovery will generate additional revenue and improve quality. Equity would be enhanced by spending some of the additional net cost-recovery revenue on health care for the poor.
A modified vibration-rotation contact transformation technique

Abstract A modification of the unitary operators used in conventional vibration-rotation contact transformation calculations is described and developed. It is shown that this modification leads to substantial and significant simplifications of the existing theory. The modified theoretical development is applied to the calculation of the sextic centrifugal distortion constants of asymmetric rotators, and the recent results of Aliev and Watson are duplicated.
Dipolar assembly of ferromagnetic nanoparticles into magnetically driven artificial cilia

Taking inspiration from eukaryotic cilia, we report a method for growing dense arrays of magnetically actuated microscopic filaments. Fabricated from the bottom-up assembly of polymer-coated cobalt nanoparticles, each segmented filament measures approximately 5–15 µm in length and 23.5 nm in diameter, which was commensurate with the width of a single nanoparticle. A custom microscope stage actuates the filaments through orthogonal permanent and alternating magnetic fields. We implemented design of experiments (DOE) to efficiently screen the effects of cobalt nanoparticle concentration, crosslinker concentration, and surface chemistry. The results indicated that the formation of dense, cilia-mimetic arrays could be explained by physical, non-covalent interactions (i.e. dipolar association forces) rather than chemistry. The experiments also determined an optimal Co nanoparticle concentration of approximately 500 µg ml−1 for forming dense arrays near the ends of the permanent magnets, and a critical concentration of approximately 0.3 µg ml−1, below which particle assembly into chains was not observed.
Performance and trace metal content of Crambe and kenaf grown on sewage sludge-treated stripmine land

Abstract Crambe Crambe abyssinica and kenaf Hibiscus cannabinus were grown for 3 years on stripmine land in three replications of the four treatments: control (no soil amendment); added commercial fertiliser; and two levels of digested sewage sludge (42% solids at the rate of 112 and 224 metric tons ha −1 ). Favourable growth responses to sludge and commercial fertiliser were observed with both crops, although performance of crambe on the sludge-treated plots was adversely affected by weed competition. The yield of kenaf increased with sludge amendment of the soil. Concentrations of eight metals (Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu, Pb, Cr, Cd, and Hg) in crambe seed were unaffected by plot treatment, but kenaf stems appeared to accumulate higher metal concentrations with soil amendment by sewage sludge. Neither crambe seed nor kenaf stalks accumulated unusual quantities of these metals, and thus neither crop would be expected to remove significant quantities of metals from soils. Metal concentrations of both soil and sludge samples were determined to evaluate translocation of metals to both crops.
FSGS lesions in IgA nephropathy

Dobrzanska A, Janas R, Kowalik A, Pietraszek E, Stolarczyk A, Socha J (Children’s Memorial Health Institute, Warsaw, Poland), Carlier C, Dain E, Van Hees JN, Goyens P, Hoyos J, Langhendries J-P, Martin F, Poncelet P, Xhonneux A (ULB Bruxelles and CHC St Vincent Liege), Perrin E (Danone Research Centre for Specialized Nutrition, Schiphol, The Netherlands), Agostoni C, Giovannini M, Re Dionigi A, Riva E, Scaglioni S, Vecchi F, Verducci E (University of Milan).
A Ticket pricing strategy for an oligopolistic space tourism market

Abstract It is important for any new launch system to develop a successful pricing strategy and to optimize launch system parameters to receive a high economic profit. A question arises, what will happen when an existing suborbital flight market (the first likely to be established in space) is interfered with by a new established orbital flight market for space tourism. There is a risk that the suborbital space tourism market could be almost instantly displaced when a product capable of reaching orbit was introduced. This is best discussed using the following three cases whose results are presented in this paper. Case A presents a ticket pricing strategy for a suborbital and orbital vehicle if the two vehicles do not compete in the same market. Case B shows the necessary ticket pricing strategy for a suborbital vehicle if there is competition from an orbital flight operator. However, the suborbital vehicle would not be able to keep up with a drop in ticket prices due to its obsolete characteristics. Thus, the suborbital vehicle would be forced to stop operation in the year when flight costs became higher than flight receipts as shown in case C.
Introduction: Reassessing French Studies in the Context of Postmodern Geopolitics

This volume was compiled following the 16th International colloquium in Twentieth-Century French Studies that Martine Antle and I organized at UNC-Chapel Hill in 1999... This introductory material is available in Studies in 20th Century Literature: http://newprairiepress.org/sttcl/vol26/iss1/2 Introduction: Reassessing French Studies in the Context of Postmodern Geopolitics
Long-term performance and complications of the Tesio twin catheter system for hemodialysis access

The Tesio twin catheter system (Medcomp, Harleysville, PA) was developed to overcome the problems with the existing central venous catheters in providing high-efficiency dialysis, such as inadequate blood flows, high recirculation rates, and need for surgical insertion. The relatively large internal lumens and multiple side holes in a spiral pattern allow for high blood flow rates and lower tendency to thrombosis. In this series, 82 catheter pairs were placed in 75 patients and monitored for a period encompassing 231 patient-months. We achieved mean nominal blood pump flow rates of 400 +/- 6 mL/min and an average recirculation of 4.6% +/- 0.5%. In 20 sets of catheters, a nominal blood flow rate of 388 +/- 6 mL/min was measured ultrasonically at 352 +/- 8 mL/min, representing an error of 36 +/- 5 mL/min. Thrombosis of the catheter occurred at a rate of one episode per 21 patient-months, and on all occasions responded to local instillation of urokinase. Despite having two exit sites, the infection rates were comparable to other catheters: exit site infections occurred at a rate of one per 21 patient-months and bacteremic episodes occurred at one per 11.5 patient-months, necessitating catheter removal once per 46 patient-months. Based on these data, we believe that the Tesio twin catheter system is an excellent long- and short-term vascular access for providing high-efficiency dialysis.
Autonomic and EEG patterns distinguish transcending from other experiences during Transcendental Meditation practice.

Abstract This study compared EEG and autonomic patterns during transcending to ‘other’ experiences during Transcendental Meditation (TM) practice. To correlate specific meditation experiences with physiological measures, the experimenter rang a bell three times during the TM session. Subjects categorized their experiences around each bell ring. Transcending, in comparison to ‘other’ experiences during TM practice, was marked by: (1) significantly lower breath rates; (2) higher respiratory sinus arrhythmia amplitudes; (3) higher EEG alpha amplitude; and (4) higher alpha coherence. In addition, skin conductance responses to the experimenter-initiated bell rings were larger during transcending. These findings suggest that monitoring patterns of physiological variables may index dynamically changing inner experiences during meditation practice. This could allow a more precise investigation into the nature of meditation experiences and a more accurate comparison of meditation states with other eyes-closed conditions.
Human CD8+ T cells specific for influenza A virus M1 display broad expression of maturation‐associated phenotypic markers and chemokine receptors

To define the role of memory T cells in a non-persistent viral infection, we have delineated the phenotype of memory CD8+ T cells specific for influenza A virus (FluA; matrix protein M158-66) based on the expression of several memory/effector lineage markers and relevant chemokine receptors. We found a majority of FluA-specific CD8+ T cells expressed CD27 and CD28, and variably expressed CD45RA, CD62L, CD94 and granzyme A. A majority of FluA-specific CD8+ T cells expressed high levels of CXCR3, and moderate levels of CCR5 and CXCR4, whereas a limited proportion expressed CCR7, CCR6 and CXCR5. A phenotypic profile based on these observations showed that there are both immature and mature memory CD8+ T cells specific for FluA.
Characterization of Shallow Junctions Fabricated by Gas Immersion Laser Doping (Gild)

The viability of Gas Immersion Laser Doping (GILD) for VLSI processing of ultra shallow junctions is assessed using chemical, electrical and structural characterization of boron doped diodes. Diodes with good ideality factors (1.1) overarange of junction depths (50nm Xj 200 nm) have been fabricated by GILD. This process uses a pulsed XeCI excimer laserincident on a silicon surface saturated with B2H6. Dopant profiles as a function of laser energy and number of pulses aredetermined using Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry(SIMS). For low energy or a large number of pulses, comparison with computer modelling suggests the junction is determined by melt depth. For higher laser energy and few pulses, liquid phase diffusion limits the depth of dopant incorporation. Leakage current measurements as a function of diode perimeter to area (P/A) ratio and Deep Level Transient Spectroscopy (DLTS) suggest that leakage occurs along the diode perimeter, and is dueto point defects generated from thermal stresses during melt regrowth. Diodes show good I-V characteristics after GILD alone, yet subsequent rapid thermal annealingisfound to further reduce leakage currents, probably due to relief of thermal stresses. Sheet carrier densities from Halleffect measurements show that 5 - 10% of the boron is activated, with doping levels exceeding 1020 cm−3 in some samples. Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) demonstrates that reasonable crystalline quality is maintained for moderate GILD conditions with a defect density at the surface of approximately 108 cm−2 .For higher laser energy with boron incorporation exceeding solid solubility, TEM shows stacking faults along directions. Electron diffraction on highly doped samples shows extra spots indicating a high degree of strain in the doped layer.
Camptothecin and Minor-Groove Binder Hybrid Molecules: Synthesis, Inhibition of Topoisomerase I, and Anticancer Cytotoxicity in Vitro

The synthesis, characterization, inhibitory activity against topoisomerase I, and biological evaluation of a series of 14 camptothecin derivatives of polypyrrolecarboxamide (lexitropsin) conjugates of two structural classes: (A) camptothecin−NHCO−lexitropsin 44−51 and (B) camptothecin−CONH−lexitropsin 38−43 are described. All 16 compounds tested, 14 conjugates plus two functionalized camptothecin controls, inhibit topoisomerase I in the concentration range 1.12−16.6 μM that divide into three distinct categories based on activity. The most active enzyme inhibitors belong to structure class A with either cationic dimethylaminium or neutral amide end groups. Generally class B conjugates are less effective in inhibiting topoisomerase I. Cytotoxic potencies of the drugs was tested against four representative human tumor cell lines: SKOV3, SKLVB, HT29, and KB. All 16 drugs gave measurable IC50 values against the KB cell line and fell into two categories with IC50 values of 0.049−0.66 μM (largely structure cla...
Curl- q : a vorticity damping artificial viscosity for essentially irrotational Lagrangian hydrodynamics calculations

The bane of Lagrangian hydrodynamics calculations in multi-dimensions is the appearance of vorticity that causes tangling of the mesh and consequent run termination. This vorticity may be numerical or physical in origin, and is in addition to the spurious ‘‘hourglass’’ modes associated with quadrilateral or hexahedral zones that in pure form have both zero curl and divergence associated with their velocity field. The purpose of this note is to introduce a form of vorticity damping, based on a previously published edgecentered artificial viscosity [1], that extends the runtime and range of calculations over which a pure Lagrangian code can compute. Since the explicit inclusion of an artificial viscosity into the fluid equations is often referred to as the ‘‘q term’’, we denote this new term as the ‘‘curl-q’’, because it is a function of the curl of the velocity field in a zone. It is formulated in the context of the ‘‘discrete, compatible formulation of Lagrangian hydrodynamics’’ [2,3]. This employs a staggered placement of variables in space (velocity and position at nodes, with density and stresses in zones), but a predictor/corrector time integration scheme so that all variables are known at the same time level, allowing total energy to be exactly conserved [2]. This new ‘‘curl-q’’ does not resolve shock waves and is always to be utilized with an artificial viscosity that performs this task. In order to set the stage for the introduction of the new curl-q force, the edge-centered artificial viscosity given in [1] is briefly reviewed in a slightly simplified form; after this the curl-q force is formulated as an analogy to this edge-centered artificial viscosity. Numerical results are given in both 2D and 3D that display its effectiveness. In particular, results are contrasted between this new term and a recently published tensor artificial viscosity [4]. It is shown that these two forms give quite similar results in 2D. We end with a brief discussion concerning the validity of the use of this type of numerical device. In Fig. 1 is shown a quadrilateral zone with its defining points, i = 1–4, and associated median mesh vectors ~Si. These vectors point in the indicated direction and have a magnitude of the surface area that lies between their defining points in 2D or in 3D [2,5]. In terms of the median mesh vector~S1, the force exerted by the edgecentered artificial viscosity between points ‘‘1’’ and ‘‘2’’ from zone ‘‘z’’ is given by
HIV infection and sputum-culture conversion in patients diagnosed with Mycobacterium tuberculosis: a population-based study.

To estimate the effect of human immunodeficiency virus infection on treatment outcome of anti-tuberculosis therapy at the population level. A retrospective cohort study based on data collected through the expanded program on tuberculosis surveillance on all reported and verified cases of tuberculosis in the State of North Carolina from 1993 to 1998. Eligible patients were sputum-positive at baseline, with known and documented HIV-serology status. We analyzed 1030 cases consisting of 210 HIV-positive and 820 HIV-negative tuberculosis patients. Patients were followed up for 12 months to document sputum conversion. Among HIV-infected individuals, 60% (126) converted compared to 75% (615) of HIV-uninfected persons. Using the Cox Proportional Hazard method to estimate the likelihood of conversion, we found the difference in conversion rates to be highly significant (crude hazard ratio=0.54, Cl=0.45-0.66). The inverse relationship between HIV-seropositivity and sputum conversion still persisted and remained practically unchanged after adding potential confounding factors into the model (adjusted hazard ratio=0.56, 95% Cl=0.46–0.69). Response to anti-tuberculosis therapy was significantly less favorable in HIV-infected than in HIV-uninfected tuberculosis patients. The importance of longer and closer monitoring of tuberculosis treatment in HIV-positive patients is highlighted.
Cooperation in common property regimes under extreme drought conditions: Empirical evidence from the use of pooled transferable quotas in Spanish irrigation systems

The success of a common property regime can be partially judged on the basis of its ability to handle extreme events that stress its capacity for cooperation. This paper compares the performance of 38 irrigation associations in a large irrigation area in Spain during a severe drought as a test of hypotheses derived from property right theories. The case is particularly interesting because it contains a transferable quota institution that can potentially strengthen the effectiveness of common property regimes in scarcity conditions. According to the results the use of transferable quotas across associations can contribute to cooperation and drought performance. In this context, performance is higher when the associations enjoy (1) effective monitoring systems, (2) experience and legitimate leaders, and (3) facilitative biophysical conditions like soil water holding capacity. The analysis also suggests that biophysical properties like soil water holding capacity may compensate for weaker monitoring or leadership, and vice-versa.
Strategies using the immune system for therapy of brain tumors

Phase II immunotherapy and gene therapy studies should be pursued because of encouraging results in many phase I studies. Future testing in this field may consider modifications of some of the above-mentioned combined strategies. For instance, in the immunization and adoptive transfer studies performed by Holladay et al and by Plautz et al, the systemic adoptive transfer could be altered to intratumoral placements of effector cells. This permutation may be more efficacious because local adoptive immunotherapy approaches involve placement of effector cells where they are needed. Additionally, new avenues of gene therapy are being explored that may offer added beneficial effects for immunization, local or systemic adoptive immunotherapy, or combined chemotherapy and adoptive immunotherapy of tumors. With new genetic tools, such as microarray analyses, SEREX, and creation of cDNA libraries from tumor cells, significant progress in the treatment of neoplasms in the immunologically privileged brain should be forthcoming.
Evaluation of m † (h - ε) -1 m for a large hermitian matrix h

The matrix expression indicated in the title occurs in linear expansion methods for bound state or scattering solutions of [email protected]?dinger's equation. A method of evaluation is described that is efficient and accurate for matrices h much larger than available random access memory in a computer. Expansion of the lower triangle of h or transposition is avoided and all matrix processing is sequential. The proposed method uses triangular decomposition of the Hermitian matrix, but avoids complex arithmetic unless the original matrix is complex. In comparison with direct use of Gaussian elimination for(h - @e)^-^1m the proposed method avoids an entire step of matrix processing.
An improved algorithm for small and cool fire detection using MODIS data: A preliminary study in the southeastern United States

Traditional fire detection algorithms mainly rely on hot spot detection using thermal infrared (TIR) channels with fixed or contextual thresholds. Three solar reflectance channels (0.65 μm, 0.86 μm, and 2.1 μm) were recently adopted into the MODIS version 4 contextual algorithm to improve the active fire detection. In the southeastern United States, where most fires are small and relatively cool, the MODIS version 4 contextual algorithm can be adjusted and improved for more accurate regional fire detection. Based on the MODIS version 4 contextual algorithm and a smoke detection algorithm, an improved algorithm using four TIR channels and seven solar reflectance channels is described. This approach is presented with fire events in the southeastern United States. The study reveals that the T22 of most small, cool fires undetected by the MODIS version 4 contextual algorithm is lower than 310 K. The improved algorithm is more sensitive to small, cool fires in the southeast especially for fires detected at large scan angles.
Are pediatricians responsible for prevention of adult cardiovascular disease

Atherosclerosis begins in childhood with fatty streaks, which progress seamlessly to fibrous plaques in adulthood. These plaques, in turn, might rupture and cause thrombotic arterial occlusion and ischemic damage to vital organs. The earliest stages and progression of atherosclerosis in youth are influenced by the same major established risk factors for this condition in adults-dyslipidemia, hypertension, smoking, obesity, and diabetes mellitus. Controlling these risk factors at any age is beneficial, but the earlier primary prevention begins, the better the result. As recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics, pediatricians should support both control and prevention of these risk factors in children via lifestyle modification. Drug treatment can be used to supplement lifestyle modification in the few cases of children with genetic dyslipidemias who do not respond to diet changes. Ultimately, however, effective prevention of adult disease requires a massive cultural change.
Cross-National Variations in Rural Mathematics Achievement: A Descriptive Overview.

Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to James H. Williams, The George Washington University, GSEHD, Educational Leadership, 2134 G Street NW, Washington, DC 20052. (jhw@gwu.edu) Using PISA 2000 data, this article examines cross-national variation in rural mathematics achievement among 15-yearolds in 24 industrialized nations. Rural mathematics scores were significantly lower than scores in urban and medium-size communities in 14 of 24 countries. However, patterns were complex. Most commonly, a linear relationship obtained between community size and average math score. In some countries, however, students in medium-size communities scored highest, followed by urban then rural locales. In some countries, such as the U.S., students in urban communities scored lowest. U.S. rural mathematics scores sit squarely in the middle of the distribution. One explanation for lower rural achievement is lower SES. Consistent with other studies, the U.S. showed a marginal raw rural achievement gap, which disappeared when SES was controlled. Once SES was controlled, rural locale predicted mathematics scores in only 4 of 24 countries. Only in Russia was rural locale a statistically significant negative predictor of mathematics achievement, net of socioeconomic status. However, the U.S. showed a substantial gap in urban achievement. Further analysis suggested positive interaction effects in the U.S. between school SES and both urban and rural location. Citation: Williams, J. H. (2005, April 23). Cross-national variations in rural mathematics achievement: A descriptive overview. Journal of Research in Rural Education, 20(5). Retrieved [date] from http://jrre.psu.edu/articles /20-5.pdf
Rapid turn-around design style and technology: impact on computer architecture

A very short turnaround cycle for VLSI is possible due to advances in the integration and fabrication process and supporting CAD (computer-aided design) tools. The ways in which this development affects the design, planning, and architecture of future products are examined. >
Comparison of gastritis and gastric epithelial proliferation in Helicobacter heilmannii-infected nude and BALB/c mice.

Gastric mucosal hypertrophy/nodular hyperplasia occurs as a consequence of Helicobacter in- fection in mice and humans. The pathogenesis of this hyperplastic response is not understood. To determine the role of host cellular immunity in gastric mucosal hypertrophy/hyperplasia, 6-8-week-old female euthymic BALB/c (n 5 30) or NIH athymic nude (n 5 40) mice were inoculated with H. heilmannii. Equal numbers of uninoculated mice of each strain served as controls. Mice from each group were euthanatized at 0.5, 6, 12, and 18 months postinoculation (PI). Lymphoplasmacytic gastritis and lymphoid follicle development were less severe in nude mice than in euthymic mice at ,6 months PI. The prevalence of gastritis at 0.5, 6, 12, and 18 months PI was 0%, 17%, 67%, and 88%, respectively, in infected nude mice and 33%, 83%, 71%, and 100%, respectively, in infected BALB/c mice. CD41 T cells in infected nude mice were evident at $6 months PI but were less numerous than in infected BALB/c mice at comparable time intervals. However, numbers of CD41 T cells increased substantially throughout the experiment in infected BALB/c mice. The prevalence of nodular mucosal hyperplasia at 0.5, 6, 12, and 18 months PI was 0%, 0%, 33%, and 20%, respectively, in infected nude mice and 0%, 33%, 80%, and 80%, respectively, in infected BALB/c mice. Nodular hyperplasia occurred in association with the appearance of chronic lymphoplasmacytic inflammation and CD4 1 T cells at 12 and 18 months PI in nude mice. H. heilmannii-associated gastritis and mucosal remodeling is reduced in immu- nodeficient mouse strains lacking normal CD41 T cell numbers as compared with the response in immuno- competent mice. Additionally, CD4 immunocompetence is an integral aspect of the mucosal hypertrophy/nod- ular hyperplasia in experimental H. heilmannii-associated disease of mice.
Upgrade of the OMEGA laser system

Funding for the OMEGA laser Upgrade project has been approved and the design of a 30-kJ, 351-nm, 60-beam laser system has begun. This system will provide a unique capability to validate high-performance, direct-drive laser-fusion targets. We highlight various design features of a system that will attain 1% - 2% irradiation uniformity with versatile pulse shaping, thus providing a wide range of irradiation options for direct-drive experiments. The Nd:glass laser system consists of 60 beamlines using 20-cm disk power-amplifiers, frequency- tripling, phase conversion with diffractive optics, and smoothing by spectral dispersion (SSD). The initial pulse shape will be achieved by co-axial propagation of two beams having different pulse widths. These 'main' and 'foot' pulses will occupy different portions of the laser aperture. In addition, electro-optic technology will be used for shaping and truncation of these pulses.
Decoder for Delay-Modulation Coded Data

"Delay modulation," originally developed in conjunction with high density digital (saturation) tape recoding, combines the advantages of narrow bandwidth of pulse-code modulation (PCM) nonreturn to zero (NRZ) and the advantages of self-timing information inherent in phase modulation. This paper describes a decoding technique for the conversion of delay-modulated digital data to NRZ C data. A potential time-phase ambiguity in reception and decoding of delay-modulated data is resolved in real time, through monitoring the data stream for a unique waveform inherent in delay-modulated data. Statistical backup is provided. Included are logic implementation and timing diagrams.
New worldwide hydrological initiative needed

This essay argues for a new, decade-long worldwide hydrological initiative to permit change in the paradigm that underlies hydrological design and management. It is stimulated by the fact that over the last 20 years there has been a distinct change in our understanding of the nature and origin of the statistics of hydrological variables as measured in an individual watershed or region. The assumption was that these statistics are entirely haphazard in nature and indeterminate in origin, and do not change with time.Thus the most important hydrological variables (such as precipitation, runoff, and potential evaporation) are sampled over a calibration period (of perhaps only a few decades), and the statistics observed within that calibration period are used as the basis for hydrological design and water resource management. Now, however, there is increasing realization that the nature of the locally observed statistics of hydrological variables may be significantly determined by global-scale phenomena and might be prone to long-term change.
Accurate radio-frequency microvoltages

The questionable accuracy of radio-frequency microvoltages has been of great concern to the radio field for many years. There is an urgent need for a simple, yet reliable, source of microvolts for measurements in general and for radio receiver sensitivity determinations in particular. Extremely simple devices, which seem to satisfy that need most adequately, were recently developed. They are sources of potential drop obtained across a known resistance through which known currents flow. These devices provide constant voltage sources of accurate microvolts over a range of 1 to 105 and wider, at all frequencies to 300 megacycles and higher. They are adaptable for balanced as well as for unbalanced sources. Their electrical constants are simply determined by using known direct voltages and currents. Basic principles, design features, and applications are discussed.
Determination of copper binding in Anabaena flos-aquae purified cell walls and whole cells by X-ray absorption spectroscopy

In this study, isolated cell wall material and lyophilized whole cells of the cyanobacterium Anabaena flos-aquae (ATCC 22664) were examined for their ability to bind Cu ions. Experiments were performed to gain insight on the chemical groups that may be involved in the binding of Cu ions. We have taken advantage of physical/chemical tools, which allowed us to identify these groups at the atomic level. Atomic absorption spectroscopy was utilized to determine the Cu ion binding capacity of the two biomaterials as a function of pH. Both biomaterials showed a substantial amount of Cu ion binding at pH 5 (26.8 mg/g of biomass for the whole cell group and 90.4 mg/g for the cell wall group). X-Ray absorption spectroscopy was used to determine the speciation of Cu ions bound by cell wall and whole cell materials as well as to elucidate which functional groups were involved in binding of the Cu ions. X-Ray absorption near-edge spectra showed that the majority of the Cu was bound in both biomaterials as Cu(II) and also suggested that Cu(II) ions are binding to oxygen ligands in an environment resembling that of Cu(II) acetate monohydrate.
Pennsylvanian Evaporite Cycles And Petroleum Production, Southern Rocky Mountains: ABSTRACT

Cyclic evaporite deposits of Desmoinesian Pennsylvanian age are associated with carbonate-mound petroleum reservoirs in the Paradox and Eagle basins of southeastern Utah and western Colorado. In both basins there are basin-type evaporites associated with starved-basin trough sediments that cover a complete range of evaporitic deposits including hypersaline potash beds, halite, anhydrite, very fine-grained dolomite, and black sapropelic muds. A broad facies belt of petroleum-bearing biogenic carbonates and fine clastics occurs in cyclic association on the mildly tectonic basin shelves. Coarse arkosic facies and narrow belts of biogenic carbonates occupy the tectonically active basin edges adjacent to the Uncompahgre and Front Range highlands of the "Ancestral Rockies." Fiv major juxtaposed evaporite-carbonate mound cycles are mappable in the Paradox basin. Each major cycle contains several subcycles showing different degrees of completeness; individual salt, anhydrite, and black shale beds demonstrate a well-defined microcyclic sedimentation pattern, perhaps related to annual or seasonal climatic changes. The major cycles and most subcycles can be correlated throughout the basin by use of mechanical logs. Microstratigraphic studies of evaporite cores indicate that individual microcycles can be traced for relatively large distances where sufficient cores are available. The evaporite environment is believed to be directly responsible for the presence of petroleum deposits in the Paradox basin because of its role in the genesis of organic-rich basinwide potential petroleum source beds, improvement of reservoir quality by dolomitization in some places, and the indirect influence of the sapropelic shale-bed geometry in determining size and positioning of carbonate-mound reservoir belts. Conversely, some detrimental effect of the evaporite phase is found in the sealing of some original porosity by later anhydrite infilling. Most of the petroleum deposits occur in shelf carbonate reservoirs along the southwest flank of the basin. However, probably even greater potential reserves are locked in sapropelic fractured shale beds in the central basin salt anticline area, not now recoverable under the limitations of present exploitation technology. Evaporite deposits equivalent in age to those of the Paradox basin are present in the Eagle basin of northwestern Colorado. Although thinner than the Paradox evaporites, and more closely interrelated with clastic sediments, these beds occur also in a well-developed cyclic evaporite-black shale depositional sequence. Significant petroleum deposits in facies association with the evaporite section have not yet been found in the Eagle basin, although in most of the basin area drilling density is sparse. End_of_Article - Last_Page 544------------
γ-Hydroxybutyrate Model of Generalized Absence Seizures: Further Characterization and Comparison with Other Absence Models

gamma-Hydroxybutyrate (GHB) produces a constellation of EEG and behavioral events that respond selectively to antiabsence antiepileptic drugs. The GHB-induced seizure was quantitated in the presence of three other absence seizure models: pentylenetetrazole, systemic penicillin, and the flash evoked afterdischarge (FEAD). Penicillin and pentylenetetrazole produced a significant prolongation of GHB-induced seizure in a dose-dependent fashion. This potentiation of GHB seizure was observed when these compounds were given either before administration of gamma-butyrolactone (GBL), the prodrug of GHB, or at the onset of GHB-induced seizure. Photic stimulation given in a manner to produce FEAD also resulted in a significant prolongation of GHB-induced seizure. All of these maneuvers lowered the threshold to GHB seizure, but none interfered with the brain kinetics of GHB in the animals treated with GBL. Ethosuximide pretreatment significantly shortened the GHB seizure and overcame the potentiating effect of penicillin and pentylenetetrazole in this model. These data confirm the GHB-treated animal as a model of generalized absence seizure. The GHB model meets appropriate criteria for an absence seizure model and compares favorably with other models of absence currently in use.
Assessment of quality of life and symptom improvement in lung cancer clinical trials

The majority of lung cancers are diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment options are limited and mainly palliative. In advanced lung cancer, quality-of-life (QOL) issues have become an integral part of making decisions about various treatment options. Recent clinical trials in patients with lung cancer have assessed symptom improvement and QOL as important endpoints. There are several valid and reliable QOL assessment instruments that specifically evaluate symptoms of lung cancer. These questionnaires evaluate a variety of factors related to emotional, physical, and social well-being. Several key factors, including age, gender, comorbidities, and quality of supportive care may affect symptoms and QOL in patients with lung cancer. Overall, QOL is important for patients with advanced lung cancer; therefore, symptom and QOL assessments are becoming vital in evaluating the efficacy of emerging cancer treatments.