cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Electrical properties of thin Co2Si, CoSi, and CoSi2 layers grown on evaporated silicon

MeV4He+ backscattering spectrometry and CuKα x-ray diffraction were used to measure the thicknesses and phases of Co-silicides grown from samples with a thin Co layer deposited on a thin Si layer evaporated on a SiO2 substrate (SiO2/Sie/ Co). Uniform layers of Co2Si, CoSi, and CoSi2 were formed sequentially in a layer-by-layer manner. Electrical properties of these silicides were studied with four-point probe measurements. The results show that Co2Si and CoSi2 are p-type conductors and CoSi is n-type conductor with resistivity close to the reported values. Results from measurements that were performed on samples with two phases of silicide present (e.g. SiO2/ Sie/CoSi2/CoSi) are explained very well by a simple model which assumes two layers of silicides connected electrically in parallel.
Calcium binding to Procambarus clarkii sarcoplasmic calcium binding protein splice variants.

Abstract Sarcoplasmic calcium binding protein (SCP) is a high-affinity calcium buffering protein expressed in muscle of crayfish and other invertebrates. In previous work, we identified three splice variants of Procambarus clarkii SCP (pcSCP1a, pcSCP1b, and pcSCP1c) that differ in a 37 amino acid region that lies mainly between the 2nd and 3ed EF-hand calcium binding domain. To evaluate the function of the proteins encoded by the pcSCP1 transcripts, we produced recombinant pcSCP1 and used tryptophan fluorescence to characterize calcium binding. Tryptophan fluorescence of pcSCP1a decreased in response to increased calcium, while tryptophan fluorescence of the pcSCP1b and pcSCP1c variants increased. We estimated calcium binding constants and Hill coefficients with two different equations: the standard Hill equation and a modified Hill equation that accounts for contributions from two different tryptophans. The approaches gave similar results. Steady-state calcium binding constants (K d ) ranged from 2.7 ± 0.7 × 10 − 8 M to 5.6 ± 0.1 × 10 − 7 M, consistent with previous work. Variants displayed significantly different apparent calcium affinities, which were decreased in the presence of magnesium. Calcium K d was lowest for pcSCP1a and highest for pcSCP1c. Site-directed mutagenesis of pcSCP1c residues to the amino acids of pcSCP1b decreased the calcium K d , identifying residues outside the EF-hand domains that contribute to calcium binding in crayfish SCP.
SOME HISTOLOGTCAL EFFECTS OF DIRECT CONTACT OF PINUS RESINOSA SEEDS AND YOUNG SEEDLINGS WITH 2,4,5‐T*

Summary. Direct contact of seeds and recently emerged seedlings with 2,4,5-T at 25 or 100 ppm caused abnormal development of Pinus resinosa Ait. seedlings. The first observed effect of 2,4,5-T treatment at 25 ppm was cessation of cell division and expansion in the roots. Subsequently the herbicide stimulated proliferation and expansion of parenchyma ceils in the stem and cotyledons, causing abnormal thickening of the seedlings. Parenchyma cells in the upper stem became disorganized and many of them collapsed. Callus tissue then formed in the region of tissue disintegration. The herbicide also inhibited formation of primary needle primordia and expansion of primary needles. In treated plants the cotyledons were fused to primary needles. Cell proliferation and formation of callus tissue were greater with 2,4,5-T at 100 ppm than at 25 ppm. Quelques effets histologiques du contact direct des semences et desjeunes plantules de Pintis resinosa avec le 2,4,5-T Resume. Le contact direct de semences et de plantules recemment levees avec du 2,4,5-T a 25 ou 100 ppm provoqua un developpement anormal des plantules de Pinus resinosa Ait, Le premier effet observe du traitement au 2,4,5-T a 25 ppm fut l'arret de la division et de la croissanee des cellules dans les racines. Par la suite, l'herbicide stimula la proliferation et ia croissance des cellules du parenchyme dans la tige et dans les cotyledons, provoquant un epaississement anormal des plantules. Les cellules du parenchyme dans la partie superieure dc la tige furent desorganisees et beaucoup d'entre elles furent atteintes de collapsus. Un tissu calleux se forma alors dans la region de deintegration des tissus. L'herbicide inhiba egaleinent la formation des ebauches des aiguilles primaires et leur croissance. Dans les plantes traitees, les cotyltedons furent soudes aux aiguilles primaires. La proliferation cellulaire et la formation de tissu caileux furent plus importants avec le 2,4,5-T a 100 ppm qu'a 25 ppm. Einige htstologische Effekte des direkten Kontakts von Samen tmd jtmgen Keimlingen von Pinus resinosa mit 2,4,5-T Zusammenfassung. Direkter Kontakt der Samen und gerade aufgelaufener Keimlinge von Pinus resinosa Ait, mit 2,4,5-T in Konzentrationen von 25 oder 100 ppm fuhrte zu anomaler Keimlingsentwicklung, Die erste beobachtete Wirkung der Behandlung mit 2,4,5-T in einer Konz. von 25 ppm war die Unterbindung der Zellteilung und -strek-kung in den Wurzeln. Danach stimulierte da sHerbizid die Proliferation und Streckung der Parenchymzellcn in der Sprossachse und den Kotyledonen, was zu einer anomalen Verdickung der Keimlinge fuhrte. Die Organisation der Parenchymzellen im oberen Teil der Sproasachse war gestort und viele der Zellen kollabierten. In der Region des Gewebezerfalls bildete sich dann Kallusgewebe. Das Herbizid hemmte auch die Bildung der Primordien und die Streckung der primaren Nadeln. Bei behandelten Pflanzen waren die Kotyledonen zu primaren Nadeln verschmolzen. Zellproliferation und Kallusbildung waren bei 100 ppm des Herbizids starker als bei 25 ppm.
Revisiting renewable portfolio standard effectiveness: policy design and outcome specification matter

Renewable portfolio standards (RPS) differ widely across US states. Prior research findings on the effectiveness of these policies to stimulate renewable electricity deployment are equally wide ranging. This study investigates patterns of RPS policy design and analyzes the effects on policy outcomes measured at the level of utility compliance. Measuring organizational outcomes of RPS corrects for the first time the challenges of prior research focused on state-level renewable capacity or generation outcomes. The quantitative analysis also takes into account the complexity of RPS design, by making use of a state-by-state database of RPS design characteristics developed for this study. Patterns of RPS design across states are compared, including the compliance schedule, scope, eligibility of resources, quotas and subsidies, renewable energy credit provisions, as well as enforcement and penalties. Together, the map of state RPS design and the new approach to RPS outcome analysis illuminate the diversity of RPS policy practice across the United States. They suggest the need to both account for the variety of design characteristics and accurately specify the policy outcomes in evaluations of these policies.
Analysis of cylindrical sandwich structures with weak orthotropic core under patch loading

Abstract An analysis of cylindrical sandwich structures with weak orthotropic core subjected to patch loading is presented. A high order theory model combined with a novel formulation technique is used to predict the static response of the structure. The face-sheets are considered as thin shells that follow the first order shear deformation theory, whereas the core is considered as a linear elastic medium. The effects of core elastic and shear stiffness, curvature to length ratio, and stacking sequence and orientation on the core’s stresses and displacements are presented. The case of a moving load is explored and performance charts are generated to design and optimize the structure in response to the patch loads. In particular, considering an orthotropic core with quasi-isotropic lay-up in the face-sheets, limit the variation of the transverse core shear stress and provide an efficient structural design configuration.
Use of stochastic weathergenerators for precipitation downscaling

Downscaling coarse-resolution model representations of climate is a disaggregation problem, in which any number of small-scale weather sequences can be associated with a given set of large-scale values. Because of this intrinsic indeterminacy it is natural and logically consistent for downscaling methods to include explicitly random elements. Weather generators are stochastic models for (usually) daily weather time series, which can be used for climate-change downscaling through appropriate adjustments to their parameters. Two main approaches for such parametric adjustments have been developed, namely changes in the daily weather generator parameters based on imposed or assumed changes in the corresponding monthly statistics, and day-by-day changes to the generator parameters that are controlled by daily variations in simulated atmospheric circulation. This paper reviews and compares these two methods for weather-generator-based downscaling, focusing on the downscaling of precipitation. WIREs Clim Change 2010 1 898–907 DOI: 10.1002/wcc.85 For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website
Art, Craft, and Art/Craft Segments among Craft Media Workers

There has been a great increase in the last twenty years in the creation and use of handcrafted objects. Preceding and accompanying growth are changes in the way craft media workers work and in the aesthetic conventions that guide their work. Some are still guided by traditional craft concerns, some by conventions of the contemporary art world, and some by both craft and art concerns. This research investigated whether craft media workers differentially identify themselves as artists and craftspersons, and whether distinct segments of craft media workers exist based on differential selfidentification. Results indicate three distinct segments exist that are distinguished from each other by differing work orientations and conventions. The results further show that the degree of difference in artist and craftsperson identities is largely explained by differing work orientations and conventions.
The History and Mechanism of Action of Fulvestrant

Fulvestrant is a pure antiestrogen that emerged from a systematic medicinal chemistry strategy of modification of long-chain alkyl substitutes in the 7a-position of estradiol. Fulvestrant has no uterotrophic effects on the immature or ovariectomized rat and blocks the agonistic effects of estradiol and tamoxifen in a dose-dependent manner. In in vivo and in vitro breast cancer models, fulvestrant has anticancer activity at least as good as tamoxifen and is superior to tamoxifen in some models. Fulvestrant requires intramuscular administration in a proprietary formulation of castor oil and alcohols. When fulvestrant binds to estrogen receptor monomers it inhibits receptor dimerization, activating function 1 (AF1) and AF2 are rendered inactive, translocation of receptor to the nucleus is reduced, and degradation of the estrogen receptor is accelerated. This results in pure antiestrogenic effects. There is substantial preclinical evidence that the nonsteroidal hormone-dependent mechanisms of estrogen receptor activation and regulation via growth factor receptors and their signal transduction pathways are important in the development of breast cancer hormonal resistance. Methods of exploiting the interactions between these nonsteroidal hormone-dependent mechanisms of resistance and hormonal agents such as fulvestrant are an active area for drug development and clinical investigation.
Multiple fractions of sodium exchange in human lymphocytes

Human lymphocytes contain a large, saturable fraction of K+ that exchanges slowly with K+ in the external medium, and a small non-saturable fraction that exchanges rapidly. We determined whether or not Na+ exchanges in a similar manner with external Na+. Cells were pre-equilibrated to ensure absence of net ion movements. Efflux was studied by loading with 22Na and transferring without washing to a non-labeled medium. Influx was studied by transferring to labeled medium and separating large samples of cells at 6,000g. There are fast, intermediate, and slow fractions of Na+ exchange, with half-times of 2, 14, and 120 minutes. At normal external K+, most cells Na+ exchanges rapidly, while at lower external K+ the Na+ that replaces cell K+ exchanges slowly. Parellel sources of fast and slow fractions, such as extracellular ones and subpopulations of cells, were ruled out by simultaneous 42K and 22Na fluxes and by a quantitative analysis of the combined K+ and Na+ content and flux data over a range of external K+ and Na+ levels. Five possible models of ion fluxes occurring in series were considered. Surface matrix, surface binding sites, and cytoplasmic channels with rapid nuclear exchange were eliminated as sources of the fast fractions. Therefore, the fast fractions of K+ and Na+ must reflect the permeability of the surface membrane. This left only two possible sources of the slow fractions. One, a subcellular compartment (e.g., nucleus), was eliminated by the combined content and flux data. We conclude that the slow fractions of ion flux are rate-limited by adsorption onto and desorption from cellular macromolecules. The data support the association-induction hypothesis and are understood by reference to two fundamental concepts: that of rapid solute exclusion from cell water existing in a polarized state; and that of solute accumulation limited by adsorption onto fixed anionic sites within the cell.
Group Pay-For-Performance Plans: The Role of Spontaneous Goal Setting

Despite the increasing popularity of group pay-for-performance plans, relatively little theory exists regarding the dynamics of these plans. We integrate goal setting, pay plan characteristics, and group factors to explain and predict the effectiveness of what we call “open-goal” group pay plans. We introduce spontaneous goal setting as a process explanation and propose antecedents that affect a group's propensity to set goals, the goal level chosen, and goal commitment. Finally, we discuss implications of our propositions for future research.
Direct Use of Apple Pomace in Bakery Products

DRUM-DRIED APPLE POMACE (DDAP), an edible by-product from single pass metallic membrane ultrafiltration of apple puree, was examined for composition and utilization as a source of sugar and dietary fiber in bakery products. Total dietary fiber (TDF) of freezc-dricd apple pomace (FDAP) and DDAP was 35.29% and 33.24%, respectively. Total sugar of the apple pomace concentrate (APC), FDAP, and DDAP was 54.34, 46.26, and 36.71%, respectively. Sensory evaluation demonstrated that the experimental muffins with 50% (w/w) of the plain wheat bran substituted by powdered apple pomace were significantly (p < 0.01) more desirable than the control bran muffins. In addition, experimental moon cookies with flaked apple pomace substituted for 40% (w/w) of the all-purpose flour in the crust and 40% (w/w) of the quick-cooking oats in the filling were significantly (p < 0.01) more desirable than the control moon cookies.
Differential Independence of Γ and ζ

In a celebrated theorem Holder proved that the Euler G-function is differential transcendental, i.e. G(z) is not a solution of any (non-trivial) algebraic ordinary differential equation with coefficients that are complex numbers; and we extend his methods to the Riemann ?-function. Moreover, we conjecture that G and ? are differential independent, i.e. G(z) is not a solution of any such algebraic differential equation?even allowing coefficients that are differential polynomials in ?(z). However, we are able to demonstrate only the partial result that G(z) and ?(sin 2pz) are differential independent.
Mapping Europe's Borderlands: Russian Cartography in the Age of Empire

The simplest purpose of a map is a rational one: to educate, to solve a problem, to point someone in the right direction. Maps shape and communicate information, for the sake of improved orientation. But maps exist for states as well as individuals, and they need to be interpreted as expressions of power and knowledge, as Steven Seegel makes clear in his impressive and important new book. "Mapping Europe's Borderlands" takes the familiar problems of state and nation building in Eastern Europe and presents them through an entirely new prism, that of cartography and cartographers. Drawing from sources in eleven languages, including military, historical-pedagogical, and ethnographic maps, as well as geographic texts and related cartographic literature, Seegel explores the role of maps and mapmakers in the east central European borderlands from the Enlightenment to the Treaty of Versailles. For example, Seegel explains how Russia used cartography in the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars and, later, formed its geography society as a cover for gathering intelligence. He also explains the importance of maps to the formation of identities and institutions in Poland, Ukraine, and Lithuania, as well as in Russia. Seegel concludes with a consideration of the impact of cartographers' regional and socioeconomic backgrounds, educations, families, career options, and available language choices.
Legal Spaces of Empire: Piracy and the Origins of Ocean Regionalism

In his geographical treatise of 1537, the Portuguese chronicler D. Joao de Castra explained that it would be possible to correlate all newly discovered lands with astronomical markers to produce an accurate map of the world. The result would be, he wrote, a “true and perfect geography.” The movement toward this vision, from the cartographic revolution of thirteenth-century Portolan charts to the use of surveying to map colonial territories in the nineteenth century, is a compelling narrative of the rationalization of space, and of the reinforcement of this trend by the pursuit of European imperial interests.
Topics on the bordergrounds of action

The psychological conceptualization of phenomena involves characteristic explanations of animal movement. Conscientious attention to this fact results in a kind of behaviorism I call ‘conceptual epiphenomenalism’. This doctrine at once explains the characteristic ‘opacity’ of psychological predicables and helps to show the way around difficulties opacity is felt to create, and it also frees our thinking from the tyranny of the distinction between necessity and contingency, too often misapplied to facts rather than to things said or thought. An important challenge to conceptual epiphenomenalism is to account for the facts of introspective certainty and privileged testimony. This challenge can be met by identifying the nature of and displaying the behavioral conditions for the various grades of self‐consciousness or reflective knowledge. The methodology of conceptual epiphenomenalism is schematically applied to elucidate first the general conception of animal action and then a variety of phenomena plausibly...
The Role of Hardiness in the Resolution of Grief

Little attention has been paid to personality and its role in resolving grief. This study investigated the relation of the personality factor, hardiness, to resolution of grief. In an anonymous sample of seventy widows, hardiness was a significant predictor of grief resolution in addition to general mental health, time since the death, and the widow's age. Surprisingly, whether the death was expected did not relate to the course of resolution.
Stability and accuracy of finite element schemes for the one-dimensional kinematic wave solution

Solving the kinematic wave equations for overland flow using the conventional consistent Galerkin finite element scheme is known to result in numerical oscillations due to the non-symmetric first spatial derivative terms in the kinematic wave equations. In this paper the lumped and the upwind finite element schemes are evaluated as alternatives to the consistent Galerkin finite element scheme. Stability analysis of the upwind scheme shows that the damping effect, that could reduce the oscillations, is small for the high Courant numbers encountered in overland flow problems. The upwind scheme, using upwind factors of 0.1 and 1.0, did not provide any improvement to the stability of the lumped and the consistent schemes. The lumped scheme considerably reduces oscillations without significant reduction in the overall solution accuracy. No analytical guidelines for time-step criteria that will insure stability and accuracy were provided by the stability analysis performed for the three schemes. Problem specific accuracy-based dynamic time-step criteria was developed and evaluated for the lumped scheme. These time-steps were found to be on average, double the size of the dynamic time-steps for the consistent scheme.
Effects of cursor speed on text-editing

Nine participants used a full screen computer text-editor (XEDIT) with an IBM 3277 terminal to edit marked-up documents at each of three cursor speeds (3.3, 4.7, and 11.0 cm/sec.). Results show that 9% of editing time was spent controlling and moving the cursor, regardless of cursor speed. The variations in cursor speed studied did not seem to act as a pacing device for the entire editing task.
Cyclic unparticle physics

Abstract We explore phenomenological consequences of coupling a non-conformal scale-invariant theory to the standard model. We point out that, under certain circumstances, non-conformal scale-invariant theories have oscillating correlation functions which can dramatically modify standard model processes. We dub this scenario cyclic unparticle physics, or simply cyclunparticle physics. We compute phase spaces and amplitudes associated with final state cyclunparticle and cyclunparticle exchange, respectively. We show detailed formulae in a simple example.
Polarimetric Doppler Weather Radar: Principles and Applications

This 2001 book provides a detailed introduction to the principles of Doppler and polarimetric radar, focusing in particular on their use in the analysis of weather systems. The design features and operation of practical radar systems are highlighted throughout the book in order to illustrate important theoretical foundations. The authors begin by discussing background topics such as electromagnetic scattering, polarization, and wave propagation. They then deal in detail with the engineering aspects of pulsed Doppler polarimetric radar, including the relevant signal theory, spectral estimation techniques, and noise considerations. They close by examining a range of key applications in meteorology and remote sensing. The book will be of great use to graduate students of electrical engineering and atmospheric science as well as to practitioners involved in the applications of polarimetric radar systems.
Maintenance of Correct Accommodations in Red, Green, and white Light Environments

This project explored the practical importance of ambient color as a concern for maintaining human visual accommodation. Correct accommodation and regression toward resting point accommodation were considered in broadband red, broadband green and white environments. The involvement of voluntary control of accommodation was manipulated by requiring extended performance on a difficult visual task across four light levels. Declining light levels and increased time-on-task were found to degrade the accuracy of accommodation, while manipulation of ambient color produced differences attributable to chromatic aberration. Differential abilities associated with red, green or white conditions were not apparent, as no statistically significant interactions were evidenced. Results of these and other related findings generally suggest that, allowing for chromatic aberration of the lens, the human eye maintains visual accommodation equally well across varied color conditions. Maintenance of correct accommodation and re...
Chronic Antibody Mediated Rejection of Renal Allografts: Pathological, Serological and Immunologic Features in Nonhuman Primates

The pathogenesis of late renal allograft loss is heterogeneous and difficult to diagnose. We have analyzed renal allografts in nonhuman primates to determine the relationship between alloantibodies and the graft pathology of late graft loss. Seventeen Cynomolgus monkeys were chosen from among those on several protocols for renal allotransplantation with mixed chimerism induction so that animals with and without alloantibodies were included. All animals received transient CD154 blockade and short-term cyclosporine treatment until day 28. Serial blood samples were tested for alloantibodies. Protocol biopsies and autopsy kidneys were scored for pathology and C4d deposition. Group 1, defined by complete lack of C4d deposition (24 tissue samples; 8 recipients), had no detectable alloantibodies (33 serum samples; 1-7 samples per recipient) and no evidence of chronic rejection. Three survived greater than 2 years with normal function and histology. Group 2, defined as having C4d deposition in peritubular capillaries, all made alloantibodies (100%), and most grafts later showed chronic allograft glomerulopathy (89%), and/or arteriopathy (89%). All grafts in Group 2 failed (3-27 months). Pathologic lesions of typical of chronic rejection in humans develop in monkeys, correlate with antecedent alloantibodies/C4d deposition and predict chronic rejection rather than durable accommodation.
S-Gal®, a novel1H MRI reporter for β-galactosidase

Reporter genes and associated enzyme activity are becoming increasingly significant for research in vivo. The lacZ gene and beta-galactosidase (beta-gal) expression have long been exploited as reporters of biologic manipulation at the molecular level, and a noninvasive detection strategy based on proton MRI is particularly attractive. 3,4-Cyclohexenoesculetin beta-D-galactopyranoside (S-Gal) is a commercial histologic stain, which forms a black precipitate in the presence of beta-gal and ferric ions, suggesting potential detectability by MRI. Generation of the precipitate is now shown to cause strong T(2)* relaxation, revealing beta-gal activity. A series of tests with the enzyme in vitro and with tumor cells shows that this approach can be used as an assay for beta-gal activity. Proof of principle is shown in human breast tumor xenografts in mice. Upon direct injection of a mixture of 3,4-cyclohexenoesculetin beta-D-galactopyranoside and ferric ammonium citrate, intense contrast was observed immediately in MCF7-lacZ tumors, but not in wild-type tumors. 3,4-Cyclohexenoesculetin beta-D-galactopyranoside activation in combination with ferric ions introduces a novel approach for assaying enzyme activity by MRI in vivo.
The NAD(P)H Oxidase Homolog Nox4 Modulates Insulin-Stimulated Generation of H2O2 and Plays an Integral Role in Insulin Signal Transduction

Insulin stimulation of target cells elicits a burst of H2O2 that enhances tyrosine phosphorylation of the insulin receptor and its cellular substrate proteins as well as distal signaling events in the insulin action cascade. The molecular mechanism coupling the insulin receptor with the cellular oxidant-generating apparatus has not been elucidated. Using reverse transcription-PCR and Northern blot analyses, we found that Nox4, a homolog of gp91phox, the phagocytic NAD(P)H oxidase catalytic subunit, is prominently expressed in insulin-sensitive adipose cells. Adenovirus-mediated expression of Nox4 deletion constructs lacking NAD(P)H or FAD/NAD(P)H cofactor binding domains acted in a dominant-negative fashion in differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes and attenuated insulin-stimulated H2O2 generation, insulin receptor (IR) and IRS-1 tyrosine phosphorylation, activation of downstream serine kinases, and glucose uptake. Transfection of specific small interfering RNA oligonucleotides reduced Nox4 protein abundance and also inhibited the insulin signaling cascade. Overexpression of Nox4 also significantly reversed the inhibition of insulin-stimulated IR tyrosine phosphorylation induced by coexpression of PTP1B by inhibiting PTP1B catalytic activity. These data suggest that Nox4 provides a novel link between the IR and the generation of cellular reactive oxygen species that enhance insulin signal transduction, at least in part via the oxidative inhibition of cellular protein-tyrosine phosphatases (PTPases), including PTP1B, a PTPase that has been previously implicated in the regulation of insulin action.
Radar Doppler spectroscopy of Mars. 1. Elevation differences between bright and dark areas

Doppler radar spectroscopy of Mars surface - elevation differences between bright and dark areas
Finite-surface method for the Maxwell equations in generalized coordinates

A finite-surface technique for the Maxwell equations in generalized nonorthogonal coordinates is developed. It directly applies the integral Faraday's and Ampere's laws to faces of primary and secondary grid cells, respectively. The technique features an accurate treatment of matching conditions at a material interface, grid singularities, and radiation conditions at outer boundaries.
3D ionization structure and kinematics of NGC 2392

We discuss the 3D morphology, ionization structure, and kinematics of NGC 2392, the “Eskimo,” based on new and archival HST imagery and new long-slit echelle spectroscopy. High spatial resolution ionization maps of the nebula were made from HST WFPC2 imagery and compared with their velocity structure in various emission lines from echelle spectra taken with the 4m telescope at Kitt Peak. The imagery and spectra were then compared to map the kinematics of the nebula in several emission lines and decode the 3-dimensional morphology and ionization structure of the nebula, including that of C+2 from C III] 1909 A for the first time.
Enhanced melphalan cytotoxicity following buthionine sulfoximine-mediated glutathione depletion in a human medulloblastoma xenograft in athymic mice

The effect and therapeutic consequences of buthionine-(SR)-sulfoximine (BSO)-mediated depletion of glutathione in the human medulloblastoma-derived cell line, TE-671, growing as s.c. xenografts in athymic nude mice were examined. The glutathione content of the s.c. xenografts was 1.11 +/- 0.15 mumol/g (7.79 +/- 1.61 nmol/mg of protein). Administration i.p. to tumor-bearing mice of D,L-BSO (two doses at 12-h intervals; 5 mmol/kg) depleted the glutathione content of the xenografts to 25.7% of control. Administration of a 30 mM solution of L-BSO in drinking water for 96 h depleted the glutathione content to 17.4% of control. Depletion of glutathione with these regimens resulted in a significant increase in the s.c. tumor growth delay over that produced by melphalan alone: 17.2 days versus 12.6 days for D,L-BSO (i.p.) plus melphalan versus melphalan and 22.9 days versus 16.6 days for L-BSO (p.o.) plus melphalan versus melphalan. These studies demonstrate the increased cytotoxicity of melphalan resulting from BSO-mediated depletion of glutathione in human medulloblastoma and support further efforts to modulate the chemosensitivity and radiosensitivity of this tumor by modulation of glutathione.
Death Education: A Comparison of two Programs for Mothers of Young Children:

The study compared two death education programs for mothers (N = 90) of young children. Pre- and post-test scores on the State-Anxiety Scale and researcher-designed instruments that included the Children's Questions About Death Scale (CQADS) and Future Plans Inventory (FPI) were compared. Mothers in both the Didactic and Didactic-Experiential programs scored significantly higher than the Control group in their level of effectiveness in responding to children's questions, but the two treatment groups did not significantly differ from each other. Neither the Didactic Death Education nor the Didactic-Experiential Death Education programs significantly affected mothers' anxiety before responding to children's questions about death. Post hoc analyses suggested trends relating subject characteristics to mother's level of effectiveness in responding to a child's questions about death.
Determining the mode of high-voltage breakdowns in vacuum devices

Abstract We constructed devices which were essentially vacuum diodes equipped with windows allowing observation of high-voltage breakdowns. We then used photography, recording the waveform of the applied voltage, and monitoring the X-ray output to investigate electrical breakdown in these vacuum diodes. Our results indicate that breakdowns may be divided into two types: (1) vacuum (interelectrode) breakdown — characterized by a diffuse moderately bright discharge, a relatively slow and smooth voltage collapse, and a large burst of X-rays, and (2) surface (insulator) flashover — characterized by a bright discharge with a very bright filamentary core, a relatively fast and noisy voltage collapse, and no X-ray burst. Therefore, we conclude that useful information concerning the type of breakdown in a vacuum device can be obtained by monitoring the voltage (current) waveform and the X-ray output.
Eye Tracking: A Brief Guide for Developmental Researchers

Eye tracking offers a powerful research tool for developmental scientists. In this brief article, the author introduces the methodology and issues associated with its applications in developmental research, beginning with an overview of eye movements and eye-tracking technologies, followed by examples of how it is used to study the developing mind and discussions of the eye–mind relationship. The author also addresses a number of practical issues involved in starting eye-tracking research and provides resources for further reading.
Perifosine and CCI 779 Co-Operate to Induce Cell Death and Decrease Proliferation in PTEN-Intact and PTEN-Deficient PDGF-Driven Murine Glioblastoma

Background Platelet derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR) activity is deregulated in human GBM due to amplification and rearrangement of the PDGFR-alpha gene locus or overexpression of the PDGF ligand, resulting in the activation of downstream kinases such as phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), Akt, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Aberrant PDGFR signaling is observed in approximately 25-30% of human GBMs, which are frequently molecularly classified as the proneural subclass. It would be valuable to understand how PDGFR driven GBMs respond to Akt and mTOR inhibition.
Circular dichroism and fluorescence changes accompanying the protochlorophyllide to chlorophyllide transformation in greening leaves and holochrome preparations

Abstract The photoreduction of protochlorophyllide to chlorophyllide in holochrome preparations or homogenates from etiolated bean seedlings (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is followed by a series of dark steps involving changes in the absorption and circular dichroism spectra and in the polarization of the chlorophyllide fluorescence at 7 °C. Related changes can be seen in the pigment-protein, protochlorophyllide holochrome, isolated from bean etioplasts. The circular dichroism and fluorescence polarization spectra, which are particularly sensitive to close pigment association, suggest that the unilluminated holochrome contains protochlorophyllide a in an aggregated form, probably as dimers. Illumination produces a chlorophyllide a holochrome which initially exhibits evidence of chlorophyll aggregation, but which undergoes dissociation to perhaps a monomeric form within a few minutes at 0 °C. If etiolated leaves are illuminated for periods longer than 1 h, they then appear to accumulate chlorophyll b and chlorophyll a in aggregated forms that are distinct from one another. The relevance of these findings to the development of photosynthetically active plastid membranes is discussed.
The use of data and judgment in determining seismic hazard and fragilities

Abstract Data and judgment have been combined to provide a description of the seismic hazard at nuclear power plant sites and to develop fragility descriptions of equipment. In both cases, available data was insufficient to adequately describe the situation and had to be supplemented by expert opinion. This paper describes how this was done. Both methods involved the use of questionnaires and peer review panels but in different ways. The results have been used both in NRC's Systematic Evaluation Program and the Seismic Safety Margins Research Program.
State Test Results Are Predictable.

AbstractOut-of-school, community demographic and family-level variables have an important influence on student achievement as measured by large-scale standardized tests. Studies described here demonstrated that about half of the test score is accounted for by variables outside the control of teachers and school administrators. The results from these studies raise serious questions about the validity of state test results to judge student learning and the quality of teaching and leadership.
Expanding Nurses' Participation in Ethics: an empirical examination of ethical activism and ethical assertiveness

This research project investigated the extent to which nurses engage in two important kinds of ethical behaviours: ethical activism (where they try to make hospitals more receptive to nurses' participation in ethics deliberations) and ethical assertiveness (where they participate in ethics deliberations even when not formally invited). This research probed not only the extent to which nurses engage in these ethical behaviours but also whether this is influenced by professional, training and organizational factors. A random sample of 165 nurses from three major hospitals in Los Angeles provided the data. Regression analyses indicate that both ethical activism and ethical assertiveness are strongly influenced by nurses' perceptions of the receptivity of hospitals to their inclusion in ethics deliberations. In addition, nurses' education in ethics is a significant predictor of ethical activism. The findings have important implications for the content of nurses' ethics training as well as for expanding the boundaries of nurses' participation in ethics deliberations. The authors define ethics deliberations as specific meetings of a number of people to discuss an ethical issue, such as one regarding the care of a patient.
Synaptic Targeting of N-Type Calcium Channels in Hippocampal Neurons

N-type calcium (Ca 2+ ) channels play a critical role in synaptic function, but the mechanisms responsible for their targeting in neurons are poorly understood. N-type channels are formed by an α 1B (Ca V 2.2) pore-forming subunit associated with β and α2δ auxiliary subunits. By expressing epitope-tagged recombinant α 1B subunits in rat hippocampal neuronal cultures, we demonstrate here that synaptic targeting of N-type channels depends on neuronal contacts and synapse formation. We also establish that the C-terminal 163 aa (2177–2339) of the α 1B-1 (Ca V 2.2a) splice variant contain sequences that are both necessary and sufficient for synaptic targeting. By site-directed mutagenesis, we demonstrate that postsynaptic density-95/discs large/zona occludens-1 and Src homology 3 domain-binding motifs located within this region of the α 1B subunit (Maximov et al., 1999) act as synergistic synaptic targeting signals. We also show that the recombinant modular adaptor proteins Mint1 and CASK colocalize with N-type channels in synapses. We found that the α 1B-2 (Ca V 2.2b) splice variant is restricted to soma and dendrites and postulated that somatodendritic and axonal/presynaptic isoforms of N-type channels are generated via alternative splicing of α 1B C termini. These data lead us to propose that during synaptogenesis, the α 1B-1 (Ca V 2.2a) splice variant of the N-type Ca 2+ channel pore-forming subunit is recruited to presynaptic locations by means of interactions with modular adaptor proteins Mint1 and CASK. Our results provide a novel insight into the molecular mechanisms responsible for targeting of Ca 2+ channels and other synaptic proteins in neurons.
Self-mutilation and biblical delusions: a review.

Objective To review the literature for cases of deliberate self-harm that directly reference Bible verses as a motivation for action and discuss predictive factors of such behaviors and post-injury management strategies. Methods Sixteen cases of self-mutilation prompted by Biblical verses were found in the existing literature. The authors also describe a novel case of penile amputation prompted by a verse from the Gospel of Matthew. Results Four biblical verses associated with self-mutilation were found, all from the Gospel of Matthew. All patients presented with a diagnosis of psychosis at the time of the event. Other common themes include substance abuse, guilt over sexual acts, absence of pain or regret, and destruction of the severed body part. Conclusions Patients with symptoms of psychosis may misinterpret various verses from the Gospel of Matthew as instructions to engage in self-injurious behavior. Psychiatrists should be aware of these four verses to understand their significance and potentially forestall these behaviors.
Minority students in hospitality programs - a programmatic or institutional concern?

The hospitality industry has been concerned with the lack of qualified manage ment prospects among minorities. This study of 20 of the best-known four-year hospitality programs was made to determine to what extent these programs are providing such minorities. Findings showed the proportion of minority enrollment in hospitality was low unless the program was housed in an institution with large concentrations of minorities, particularly the case in the Asian and Hispanic student categories. The number of minority hospitality graduates was low at all institutions, almost without exception. Both enrollment and graduation proportions were low for Blacks and American Indians.
Direct quantitation of active ingredients in solid artesunate antimalarials by noncovalent complex forming reactive desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry

The direct quantitation of active ingredients in solid pharmaceutical tablets by desorption electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (DESI MS) is complicated by the dependence of the DESI signal on variables such as spray angles and distances, morphological sample properties, and the difficulty of properly incorporating an internal standard. Here, a DESI MS method for the direct quantitative screening of widely counterfeited antimalarial tablets containing artesunate is presented. This method is based on reactive DESI, where analyte desorption and ionization occur by the formation of noncovalent complexes between alkylamine molecules in the DESI spray solution and artesunate molecules exposed on the sample surface in the open air. For quantitation purposes, the internal standard d4-artesunic acid was synthesized by esterification of d4-succinic anhydride and dihydroartemisinin, and homogeneously dispersed on the tablet surface via a controlled deposition procedure. The analyte-to-internal standard signal intensity ratio was observed to be largely independent of all DESI variables, only showing dependence on tablet hardness. Analysis of artesunate tablet standards prepared with known amounts of the active ingredient in the 0.02 to 0.32 mg artesunate mg−1 tablet range resulted in a calibration curve with good linearity (r = 0.9985). Application of this method to the direct quantitation of genuine artesunate tablets from Vietnam showed a 6% (n = 4) precision and 94% accuracy after the spectral data were corrected for tablet hardness.
THE EFFECT OF ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT ON THE PRODUCTION OF BACTERIAL VIRUS PROTEIN

The amount of phage-specific protein in T2-infected bacteria growing in a medium containing radiosulfur, S35, has been studied by measuring the radioactivity in specific antiphage serum precipitates of lysates. In the course of normal infection, non-infective phage antigen has been found to make its first intracellular appearance shortly before the end of the eclipse period, in agreement with the findings of Maaloe and Symonds with phage T4. No such phage antigen is produced either in bacteria infected with UV-inactivated T2 or in T2-infected bacteria whose survival as an infective center has been destroyed by UV irradiation during the early stages of the eclipse period. If the infected bacteria are UV-irradiated only at later stages of the eclipse period however, then phage antigenic protein continues to be synthesized in those infected cells in which DNA synthesis and, a fortiori, production of infective progeny have been almost completely suppressed. It is concluded from these results that once the mechanism for formation of phage-specific protein has been established within the infected cell under the influence of the parental DNA, synthesis of phage-specific protein can continue independently of the synthesis of phage DNA. The possibility that the phage DNA controls the specificity of the phage protein indirectly through substances other than DNA is discussed.
Finding the boundaries of information resources on the web

In recent years, many algorithms for the Web have been developed that work with information units distinct from individual web pages. These include segments of web pages or aggregation of web pages into web communities. Using these logical information units has been shown to improve the performance of many web algorithms. In this paper, we focus on a type of logical information units called compound documents. We argue that the ability to identify compound documents can improve information retrieval, automatic metadata generation, and navigation on the Web. We propose a unified framework for identifying the boundaries of compound documents, which combines both structural and content features of constituent web pages. The framework is based on a combination of machine learning and clustering algorithms, with the former algorithm supervising the latter one. Experiments on a collection of educational web sites show that our approach can reliably identify most of the compound documents on these sites.
Characterizing dynamic behavior of PMUs using step signals

SUMMARY Evaluating performance of PMUs to verify the consistency of phasor measurements is of a great importance since it promotes the interoperability among PMUs from different manufacturers. This paper presents a set of test methodology and tools for evaluating the dynamic performance of PMUs when exposed to a step change of input signals. A phasor estimation scheme is proposed to achieve high accuracy of reference phasors. An interleaving technique applied on output phasors can equivalently increase the reporting rate and can precisely depict the transient behavior of a PMU under the step input. Four types of tests with balanced and unbalanced three-phase step signals are performed as reference signals to characterize the step responses. Three commercial PMUs are selected to perform step tests using the dynamic test system developed at NIST. A set of programs are developed based the dynamic test system to automate step test procedures. The test results are outlined at the end. Copyright # 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.