cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Survival and persistence of nonspore-forming biothreat agents in water.

Aims: To determine whether nonspore-forming biothreat agents can survive and persist in potable water that does not contain a disinfectant. Methods and Results: Autoclaved, de-chlorinated Atlanta municipal water was inoculated with eight isolates of bacterial biothreat agents (106 CFU ml−1). The inoculated water samples were incubated at 5, 8 (Francisella tularensis only) or 25°C and assayed for viability by culture and by the presence of metabolic activity as measured by esterase activity (ScanRDI, AES Chemunex). Viability as determined by culture varied from 1 to 30 days, depending upon the organism and the temperature of the water. All organisms were determined viable as measured by esterase activity for the entire 30 days, regardless of the incubation temperature. Conclusion: Francisella tularensis was culturable for at least 21 days if held at 8°C. The remaining nonspore-forming bacterial biothreat agents were found to be metabolically active for at least 30 days in water held at 5 or 25°C. Significance and Impact of the Study: The data can assist public health officials to determine the safety of drinking water after contamination with a biothreat agent.
Moderno de otro Modo. Lecciones Caribeñas desde el Lugar del Salvaje

Resumen es: «Modernidad» es un termino turbio perteneciente a la familia de palabras que podemos etiquetar como «universales noratlanticos». Los universales noratlan...
The South Pacific Convergence Zone in three decades of satellite images

Interannual variability, seasonal evolution, and intraseasonal variability of the South Pacific Convergence Zone (SPCZ) are quantified using a new data set of 3-hourly SPCZ labels, available from 1980 to 2012 Nov-Apr. The SPCZ label is a binary field indicating presence (1) or absence (0) of the SPCZ at each grid point (1/2° longitude by 1/2° latitude) as a function of time and is the output of a Bayesian spatiotemporal statistical model that takes in instantaneous data from geostationary satellites. The statistical model is designed to emulate the way human observers identify the SPCZ. Results show two distinct parts to the SPCZ: the western tropical part and the eastern subtropical part. At times, the two parts do not connect. When they do connect, they are oriented quite differently, such that the subtropical part has a steeper meridional slope. The SPCZ is present 50-70% of the time in the tropics from Jan to Mar and is usually anchored to the warm sea surface temperature (SST) distribution of the equatorial west Pacific. The subtropical part does not have the same sensitivity to the underlying SST distribution and is present more often in Nov-Dec and Apr than in Jan-Mar when the SST is highest. Interannual variability in SPCZ location is strongly associated with El Nino-Southern Oscillation (ENSO); however, no change in overall SPCZ area is detected in association with ENSO. On the intraseasonal time scale, composite analysis shows the distinct spatial patterns in SPCZ presence associated with each phase of the Madden Julian Oscillation. Key Points Developed a 30 year, 3-hourly data set of SPCZ location and extent Presents interannual and intraseasonal variability of SPCZ location Presents seasonal evolution of SPCZ location and extent ©2013. American Geophysical Union. All Rights Reserved.
Synthesis of 3(5)-substituted 1,2,4-triazoles by lithiation of 1-(1-pyrrolidinomethyl)-1,2,4-triazole☆

1,2,4-Triazole 1 is readily converted into 3(5)-substituted 1,2,4-triazoles 4 by a three-step sequence: (i) Mannich reaction with formaldehyde and pyrrolidine; (ii) lithiation of 1-(1-pyrrolidinomethyl)-1, 2,4-triazole 2, followed by addition of an electrophile; (iii) deprotection of the N-aminal groups of the N-protected 3-substituted 1,2,4-triazoles 3 using sodium borohydride (NaBH4) in ethanol. 3(5)-Substituted 1,2,4-triazoles 4 result in good overall yields.
Paleoecology of the Fire Clay coal bed in a portion of the Eastern Kentucky coal field

Vertically continuous increment samples of the Fire Clay coal bed (mid-Middle Pennsylvanian, late Westphalian B), collected from a portion of the Central Appalachian Basin, were studied palynologically, petrographically and geochemically in order to partially reconstruct the paleoecology and processes associated with peat formation in the ancient Fire Clay paleomire. Results indicate that four compositional groups can be identified. They are: (1) a Lycospora—vitrinite dominant group, characterized by high percentages of Lycospora and vitrinite macerals and generally low, but variable ash yields and sulfur contents; (2) a mixed palynoflora-high vitrinite group that petrographically is similar to group 1 except that it contains a more diverse palynoflora; (3) a mixed palynoflora-moderate/low vitrinite group characterized by various admixtures of lycopsid, fern and calamite miospores, increased percentages of liptinite and inertinite macerals, and low ash yields and sulfur contents; and (4) a mixed palynoflora-high ash yield group characterized by high percentages of small lycopsid, fern, and occasionally calamite and cordaite miospores, high liptinite and inertinite contents, high ash yields, and moderate to high sulfur contents. The Fire Clay coal bed contains a distinctive flint clay parting of probable volcanic origin that naturally divides the bed into two benches. These two benches, (upper and lower), are highly disparte in occurrence, appearance and composition. In the study area the lower bench generally is thin (< 0.5 m), laterally discontinuous and mainly composed of dull (mainly durain) coal lithotypes. Ash yields typically are high; sulfur contents generally are moderate to high. Compositional group 4, the mixed palynoflora—high ash yield group defines all of the increments examined from the lower bench. In contrast, the upper bench is thick (> 0.75 m), laterally continous and mainly comprised of bright (mainly clarain) coal lithotypes. Overall ash yields and sulfur contents for this bench are generally low, although vertical variation is apparent. All of the compositional groups occur in the upper bench; in some columns, notably those that are thick and uninterrupted by clastic partings, groups 1 and 4 often occupy basal coal layers and groups 2 and 3 occur in higher layers. Other columns, especially those taken in areas of thin (< 0.5 m) Fire Clay coal, are dominated by groups 1 and 4.
Social categorization and cross-cultural exploration of the third-person effect: Perceived impact of North Korea's nuclear test on the self and comparison targets

Abstract This experimental study explored the perceived media impact of North Korea's nuclear test on South Koreans and Americans to investigate whether a social categorization moderator affects a tendency to think that others will be more affected by the media. The results showed that the third-person perception was not found among South Koreans when in-group and out-group members were compared. We discussed how cultural factors might play a role in the third-person perception between two cultures: collectivistic culture (South Korea) and individualistic culture (America).
Emancipation from what? The concept of freedom in classical Ch'an Buddhism

Abstract This essay attempts to articulate an understanding of the goal of ‘freedom’ in classical Ch'an Buddhism by setting concerns for ‘liberation’ in relation to the kinds of authority and regulated structure characteristic of Sung dynasty Ch'an monasteries. It begins with the thesis that early Western interpreters of Zen have tended to emphasise the dimensions of Zen freedom that accord with modem Western versions of freedom presupposing tension between freedom and authority as well as between individual autonomy and the demands of a communal setting. These dichotomies, assumed by modem Western interpreters, appear to have been absent from this medieval Chinese context, thus suggesting that their concepts of freedom and liberation must have differed significantly from our own. The essay examines classical Ch'an rhetoric and practices in an effort to reconceive what ‘freedom’ might have meant in this context and concludes with a proposal for this reconception.
THE PROMISE OF THE WORLD ORDER MODELLING MOVEMENT

T HE World Order Models Project (WOMP) is worthy of appraisal at several levels. The numerous publications are candidates for conventional review in terms of scholarship and style.' From another perspective, WOMP is a pioneering phase in the evolution of a worldwide movement whose ideology, intellectual method, and operating strategies can be profitably examined. The present discussion is focussed on the movement. I make frequent references to WOMP products, but the purpose is not that of the usual review. The significance of WOMP is what needs to be considered-and that is the modelling process itself. It is reliance on modelling that carries significance for science, scholarship, and policy. World order modelling indicates that something new is taking shape in the use of the mind as an instrument of collective purpose. Not that modelling exemplifies perpetual motion; rather, it is a mode of perpetual, focussed participation that strives to draw upon and further improve collective ways of thinking, feeling, and acting. The movement is dedicated to the reorientation of global values and institutions. It relies on the continuing feedback of experiences that allow for predictions and programs to be reformulated. The emphasis is on self-involvement as distinct from purely a spectator stance. Those who participate are challenged to ask questions such as these: What
Synthesis of tripod-shaped oligo(phenylene)s with multiple ethenyl groups at the bases for chemisorption on hydrogen-terminated silicon surfaces

Abstract This communication describes an efficient and convergent synthesis of monodisperse, nanometer-sized, and tripod-shaped oligo(phenylene)s with a triallylsilyl group at the base of each leg and a chlorophenyl group at the focal point of the tripod. These molecules were designed as model compounds for the study of chemisorption of rigid molecules containing multiple ethenyl groups on hydrogen-terminated silicon surfaces. The compounds were synthesized from p -chlorophenyl-tris( p -bromophenyl)silane via selective Pd-catalyzed Ishiyama–Miyaura reaction with bis(pinacolato)diboron, followed by Suzuki coupling with aryl dihalides to elongate the legs. The legs were then end-capped with triallylsilyl groups through Suzuki coupling with 4-triallyphenylboronic acid.
Amorphous hydrocarbon based thin films for high-aspect-ratio MEMS applications

Abstract Methods to engineer the surfaces of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) are just beginning to be explored. Coating deposition is one such method. In cases where microdevices involve moving parts in contact, such as gear sets, combustion chambers, and mechanical seals, it may be necessary to impart the complex, highly non-planar surfaces with desired mechanical properties and tribological characteristics. In other cases, such as micro-heat exchangers or micro-catalytic converters, the chemical properties of the microdevice surfaces are important. Amorphous hydrocarbon (a-C:H) and metal-containing amorphous hydrocarbon (Me-C:H) thin films possess moderately high hardness, chemical inertness, low coefficient of friction and low wear rate, and are potentially useful in a wide range of microdevice applications. We report on the mechanical properties and tribological characteristics of TiC:H films as a function of the Ti composition. We further demonstrate the conformal deposition of TiC:H thin films over electrodeposited Ni high-aspect-ratio micro-scale structures (HARMs) fabricated by the deep X-ray lithography based microfabrication technique LIGA (Lithographie, Galvanoformung, Abformung). Conformal deposition of nanostructured ceramic thin films over HARMs offers possibilities for improving the tribological characteristics of HARMs based microdevices with parts in relative motion, and for using nanostructured ceramic thin films as structural materials for microdevices. As an example, we demonstrate the fabrication of freestanding, high-aspect-ratio TiC:H microtubes based on conformal deposition over electrodeposited Ni HARMs.
The CD40 pathway in allograft rejection, acceptance, and tolerance

The CD40 pathway plays a critical role at many levels of the sensitization and effector phases of allograft rejection. In addition to the important signaling role of this pathway for T cell help and effector function, recent evidence suggests that the CD40 pathway can directly co-stimulate T cells, independently of its effect on the B7-CD28 pathway.
On the Generalized Benders Decomposition

Abstract Generalized Benders Decomposition is a procedure to solve certain types of NLP and MINLP problems. The use of this procedure has been recently suggested as a tool for solving process design problems. This paper analyzes the solution of nonconvex problems through different implementations of the Generalized Benders Decomposition. It is demonstrated that in certain cases only local minima may be found, whereas in other cases not even convergence to local optima can be achieved. A criterion to identify whether the converged value is a candidate for being a local minimum is provided. It is also shown that in the presence of a dual gap, a particular implementation of the Generalized Benders Decomposition may provide upper and lower bounds on the global optimum. The conceptual steps undertaken in establishing the various implementations of GBD are summarized as follows: • -Convexity of X and of F ( x , y ) and G ( x , y ) in x , implies that (1) is equivalent to (4). When these conditions do not apply a gap between v ( y ) and its dual may exist (Remark 2.1). • -Problem (4) is replaced by a sequence of relaxed master problems (Remark 2.3). • -Convexity of X and of F ( x , y ) and G ( x , y ) in x (as well as satisfaction of certain other conditions) guarantees ϵ-convergence of the GBD iterations (Geoffrion, 1972, Theorem 2.5). It is implicitly understood, that for these results to hold, both the primal and the relaxed master problem must be solved globally. • -Global solution of the primal stems readily from convexity of X and of F ( x , y ) and G ( x , y ) in x . Global solution of the relaxed master may come either through the use of special algorithms or by the establishment of convexity of L *( y , u ) and L * ( y , λ) in y . One case for which convexity of these functions can be established is when F ( x , y ) and G ( x , y ) are jointly convex in x and y (Geoffrion, 1972, Section 4.2). • -Prior to the solution of the relaxed master problem, the evaluation of L *( y , u *) and L * ( y , λ*) is first required through (5) and (6). • -One case for which L *( y , u *) and L * ( y , λ*) can be obtained in explicit form is when the global minimum (over x ) of (5) and (6) can be obtained independently of y [ Property ( P )]. In this case one can construct the Benders iterations by selecting x to be the solution of the primal and u (or λ) the corresponding Lagrange multiplier. • -When the Benders iterations are built based on the primal solution, i.e. assuming that the solution of the minimization problem (5) or (6) is equal to the solution of the primal x *, [irrespective of the satisfaction of Property ( P )], the NP-GBD algorithm is obtained. When x * is indeed the solution of the minimization problem, it is said that Property ( P ′) holds. • -When the Benders iterations are built through the introduction of additional constraints as in (11), and through global solutions of (5) and (6) (problems R and S ), then the PL-GBD is obtained.
Topological degree for supersymmetric chiral models.

For the case of an N-field supersymmetric chiral model we discuss the relationship between the Witten index, the topological degree, the winding number, and the degree of polynomials. Using results of classical analysis we can then place strong constraints on the Witten index of supersymmetric chiral models. For renormalizable chiral models, 2< or =2/sup max/(m(z))< or =W< or =2/sup( rg/g )< or =2/sup N/.
Conflict and Comparison between Species

In Respect for nature, Paul Taylor insists that all teleological centers of life—that is, all living things with goods of their own—possess equal ‘inherent worth.’ Inherent worth, according to Tayl...
Resource conservation as a strategy for community psychology

Conservation of resources (COR) theory (Hobfoll, 1988, 1989) was applied to social intervention and research. COR theory depicts resource loss as disproportionately weighted in comparison to resource gain. COR theory further posits that to prevent resource loss or establish resources, other resources must be invested. Resources contribute to further resource gain, whereas lack of resources contributes to ongoing resource loss. Consequently, people, groups, or organizations that are endowed with strong personal or social resource reserves should better resist the deleterious effects of stress and withstand everyday challenges. One of the basic principles of the theory—that loss is disproportionately weighted compared to gain—was tested in two samples and strongly supported. Implications of the model for intervention were discussed.
Mitral Valve Prolapse

Abstract Mitral valve prolapse is the most common heart disease seen in college and university health services. It underlies most arrhythmia and many chest pain complaints. Auscultatory findings vary; only 60% have the click, only 48% have the murmur, and in half of those with murmur, it was heard better at the upper-left sternal border than at the apex. In 15%, neither click nor murmur was heard. Only two patients had major arrhythmia. Endocarditis prophylaxis is indicated. Activity and exercise restrictions are usually unnecessary.
Imsukuhum Kulhum! Modernity and Morality in Egyptian Children’s Consumption

At the turn of the millennium, Pokemon was perhaps the commodity phenomenon, dominating global children’s markets. Universalist explanations for Pokemon tend to ignore the myriad ways people actually encounter Pokemon in concrete situations, ways that include not only the purchasing and playing of games and collecting of objects but everyday social performances with and around these toys, games and activities. In this article, I will compare and contrast Pokemon’s reception in three upper middle class Egyptian families whose appropriations of Pokemon were shaped by Pokemon’s global indexicality, yet also shaped by forms of transnational Islam, through which people resist and seek to establish limits to Westernization. I argue that these processes are mediated by metadiscourses about Pokemon through which people articulated the meanings of their appropriations of Pokemon and integrated them into local systems of social relations.
Modelling contacts in a physically based simulation

Abstract The paper presents a model of polyhedral contact that can be used in a physically based simulation. The model is based on a geometric analysis formulated as a static problem in 3D space. The geometric analysis of contact between a pair of objects determines the set of surface areas which are in contact and their associated normals. From these areas and normals, the dynamics simulator can formulate equations that model the physical consequences of the contact. For areas that come into contact with high relative velocity, these equations model the collision impulse force. The pushing and sliding behaviour of low-relative-velocity contact is modelled by the addition of kinematic contrraints over the areas in contact. The geometric analysis consists mainly of collecting adjacent contact points into separate regions which share the same normals. Since nonconvex polyhedra are allowed, the intersection can be produce surface areas which have more than one associated normal. The geometric modeller can provide this entire set of normals, or any small subset which spans the same space, whichever the dynamics modeller requires. When a contact region persists from the time to step in the simulation, the contact analysis can return the normals for that region from the previous time step, rather than recalculate them. This temporal coherence of the normals can resolve certain cases in which the normals of a region are indeterminate. The interpretation of the contact requires a full set-theoretic intersection of the two objects. The objects in question are assumed to already be in contact or in close proximity. An efficient and robust implementation of the intersection is achieved by using the Brep-Index data structure in conjunction with a back-face culling technique based on relative velocities at surface points.
WHO Ranking of Health Systems

Before Dean T. Jamison and Martin E. Sandbu's critique of the World Health Report 2000 (WHR2000) (Policy Forum, Science 's Compass, “WHO ranking of health system performance,” 31 Aug., p. 1595), there had been other criticisms of the report ([1][1]). Yet none of these commentaries discussed the fact that the World Health Organization (WHO) was recklessly inattentive to protection and prevention programs in their assessment of health system performance. In WHR2000 ([2][2]), WHO gives a comprehensive definition of a health system that includes “such traditional public health activities as health promotion and disease prevention, and other health-enhancing interventions like road and environmental safety improvement” ( 1 , p. 5). However, WHO's actual assessment of health system performance pays scant attention to these activities that have historically contributed most to improving life and health. Instead, the report focuses almost exclusively on personal health care services—the equity in their distribution and the fairness in their financing. And, indeed, the recommendations in WHR2000 urge countries to improve service provision, resource generation, and health system financing for personal health care services. As Jamison and Sandbu mention, the WHO rankings are intended to “lead to greater political accountability and to evidence-based health policies,” but, that being the case, the focus of the report on personal health services poses a conundrum: If the WHO rankings of health system performance do not assess whether countries are taking advantage of a whole class of prevention activities—those that protect people from hazards in their living and working environments—then why should policy-makers and investors consider or adopt these strategies to improve the health of populations? How can we correct the glaring omission of health-protecting activities from WHO's analysis and prescription? Jamison and Sandbu provide a hint: Concentrate on the methodology. They note that WHR2000 “simply assumes that system performance variation accounts for all [health] outcome variation after controlling for levels of [personal health care service] expenditure and education.” Methods are needed for measuring the extent and effectiveness of prevention and protection programs. I suggest that until we have measurements and numbers to describe protection, we will not have, as Lord Kelvin said, “advanced to the state of Science.” Nor will health policy-makers pay any attention. 1. [↵][3]See, for example, . 2. [↵][4]WHO, World Health Report 2000—Health Systems: Improving Performance (WHO, Geneva, 2000). [1]: #ref-1 [2]: #ref-2 [3]: #xref-ref-1-1 "View reference 1 in text" [4]: #xref-ref-2-1 "View reference 2 in text"
Conditional Switches for Extracellular Matrix Patterning in Drosophila melanogaster

An F1 mutagenesis strategy was developed to identify conditional mutations affecting extracellular matrix (ECM) patterning. Tubulogenesis requires coordinated movement of epithelial cells and deposition of a multilayered ECM. In the Drosophila ovary, an epithelium of follicle cells creates the eggshells, including the paired tubular dorsal appendages (DAs) that act as breathing tubes for the embryo. A P-element mutagenesis strategy allowed for conditional overexpression of hundreds of genes in follicle cells. Conditional phenotypes were scored at the level of individual mutant (F1) female flies. ECM pattern regulators were readily identified including MAPK signaling gene ets domain lacking (fused DAs), Wnt pathway genes frizzled 3 and osa (long DAs), Hh pathway gene debra (branched DAs), and transcription factor genes sima/HIF-1α, ush, lilli, Tfb1, broad, and foxo. In moving cells the [Ca2+]/calcineurin pathway can regulate adhesion to ECM while adherens junctions link cells together. Accordingly, thin eggshell and DA phenotypes were identified for the calcineurin regulator calreticulin and the adherens junction component arc. Finally a tubulogenesis defect phenotype was identified for the gene pterodactyl, homologous to the mammalian serine/threonine receptor-associated protein (STRAP) that integrates the TGF-β and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. Because phenotypes can be scored in each mutant fly before and after gene induction, this F1 conditional mutagenesis strategy should allow for increased scale in screens for mutations affecting repeated (reiterated) events in adult animals, including gametogenesis, movement, behavior, and learning.
Making ends meet: Target date investment funds and retirement wealth creation

Despite the growing importance of target date funds as retirement accumulation vehicles, there exists a paucity of literature on their comparative risk-return characteristics. This paper develops a stochastic simulation model to capture the impact of different target date equity glide paths on retirement wealth creation. The findings are contrasted against the retirement wealth created by a typical defined benefit plan. The results have important implications for target date fund participants and plan sponsors whose fiduciary duty is to select and offer a suitable line of target date products.
Descriptions of two new species of Phytobia Lioy (Diptera : Agromyzidae) from the Western Ghats (Kerala : S. India)

While studying the collections made from the Western Ghats (Kerala) in October, 1968, we came across two new species of Agromyzidae belonging to the genus Phytobia Lioy subgenus Poemyza Hendel, the descriptions of which are included in this paper. Both species, Phytobia (Poemyza) kumliensis, sp. nov. and Phytobia (Poemyza) walarai, sp. nov., were reared from their host plants, two different species of grass, the former was also collected on wings.
Photosensitivity and rare-earth doping in flame-hydrolysis-deposited planar silica waveguides

Planar silica waveguide devices offer the possibility for cheap, mass produceable components for optical networks and sensors. So far, such devices have been passive in nature. It is now possible to greatly increase the device functionality by making use of the property of photosensitivity and the effect of rare earth doping in such devices. This paper discusses the results of photosensitivity, and rare-earth doping in silica waveguide devices fabricated using Flame Hydrolysis Deposition. As regards photosensitivity, the paper will consider the basic material effects, grating writing and direct writing of waveguides. Rare earth doping is also possible in such waveguides, and the results of such work are described. Rare earth doping involves solution doping of a porous soot, followed by consolidation to incorporate the rare earth. Issues such as clustering of the rare earth and ion-ion interaction leading to gain quenching are discussed and techniques to reduce deleterious presented. Possibilities for combining photosensitivity and rare earth doping are described which offer the potential for waveguide devices containing passive, photosensitive and active sections on different parts of the same wafer.© (1996) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Behavioral variability is controlled by discriminative stimuli

Previous research has demonstrated that behavioral variability can be modified by reinforcers contingent on it, but there has been no convincing evidence of discriminative stimulus control over such variability. We therefore rewarded 20 rats for variable response sequences in the presence of one stimulus and provided equal rewards independently of sequence variability in the presence of a second stimulus. We found that sequence variability was significantly higher during the first stimulus than during the second, with the greatest difference occurring immediately following onset of the stimuli. Removing the discriminative stimuli caused levels of variability to converge. These experiments provide strong evidence that behavioral variability can be controlled by discriminative stimuli, which may be important for general theories of operant behavior and their applications.
Hyperfine-structure intervals and isotope shifts in the 3 p 4 4 s 4 P J → 3 p 4 4 p 4 D J ′ fine-structure multiplet of atomic chlorine by diode laser spectroscopy

We have measured hyperfine-structure splittings and isotope shifts in the $4s{}^{4}{P}_{J}\ensuremath{\rightarrow}4p{}^{4}{D}_{{J}^{\ensuremath{'}}}$ multiplet in atomic chlorine using Doppler-free saturated absorption spectroscopy with an external cavity diode laser. Spectra of seven of the eight components of this multiplet, which have wavelengths between 798 and 859 nm, were obtained. Values for the magnetic dipole and electric quadrupole hyperfine-structure constants of the ${}^{4}{P}_{1/2\ensuremath{-}5/2}$ and ${}^{4}{D}_{1/2\ensuremath{-}7/2}$ states in both ${}^{35}\mathrm{Cl}$ and ${}^{37}\mathrm{Cl}$ were found, and the isotope shifts of the seven transitions studied were measured. The data were also analyzed in an attempt to extract values for magnetic octupole coupling constants for some of the levels investigated, but these were found to be zero at the level of the experimental uncertainty of our measurements.
Output feedback stabilization using variable structure control

We consider the stabilization of a class of multivariable nonlinear systems, about an equilibrium point at the origin, using variable structure output feedback control. In particular, the system can be transformed into a normal form with no zero dynamics. A robust high-grain observer is used to estimate the state variables while rejecting the effect of disturbance. A globally bounded discontinuous variable structure controller is designed to compensate for modelling error. We show that the controller can stabilize the closed-loop system and does not suffer from the peaking phenomenon that exists in previous designs.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa cyclohexadienyl dehydratase

The title protein has been crystallized in a new crystal form. The crystals belong to the cubic space group P4132 (or P4332) with unit-cell dimensions a = b = c = 126.1 A at 100 K and typically diffract beyond 1.6 A at the Cornell High Energy Synchotron Source (CHESS) A1 beamline.
Involvement of reversible binding to α2u-globulin in 1,4-dichlorobenzene-induced nephrotoxicity☆

Abstract Similarly to unleaded gasoline, 1,4-dichlorobenzene (1,4-DCB) administered for 2 years caused a dose-related increase in the incidence of renal tumors in male but not in female rats or in either sex of mice. Unleaded gasoline and 2,2,4-trimethylpentane (TMP), a component of unleaded gasoline, increased protein droplet formation and cell proliferation in male but not in female rat kidneys. These protein droplets contained, α 2u -globulin, a male rat-specific low-molecular-weight protein and 2,4,4-trimethyl-2-pentanol, a metabolite of TMP that was reversibly bound to this protein. Studies were undertaken to determine if 1,4-DCB produced similar effects; 1,2-DCB was used for comparison since it did not produce renal carcinogenesis in male rats. Gel filtration chromatography of a 116,000 g supernatant prepared from kidneys of 1,4-[ 14 C]DCB-treated rats showed that radiolabel coeluted with α 2u -globulin as one sharp peak as opposed to a multipeak pattern observed for 1,2-[ 14 C]DCB; the maximal quantity of radiolabel for 1,4-DCB was twice that for 1,2-DCB. Equilibrium dialysis of kidney cytosol in the presence or absence of sodium dodecyl sulfate demonstrated that the radiolabel was reversibly bound to α 2u -globulin; the amount for 1,4-[ 14 C]DCB-treated rats was almost twice as much as that for 1,2-[ 14 C]DCB-treated rats. 1,2-DCB was also shown to be covalently bound to renal α 2u -globulin, and covalently bound to liver and plasma high-molecular-weight proteins. 1,4-DCB and, to a minor extent, 2,5-dichlorophenol, the major metabolite of 1,4-DCB, were reversibly bound to renal α 2u -globulin from 1,4-DCB-treated rats. 1,4-DCB increased protein droplet formation in male but not in female rat kidneys, whereas equimolar doses of 1,2-DCB showed no effect in either sex. Renal cell proliferation, measured by [ 3 H]thymidine incorporation into renal DNA, was increased after 1,4-DCB but not after 1,2-DCB treatment. Nephrotoxicity and biochemical alterations induced by 1,4-DCB resemble those of unleaded gasoline and suggest that a similar mechanism is involved in the induction of α 2u -globulin nephropathy in male rats.
Body weight and health care among women in the general population.

Objective To examine the relation between body mass index ([BMI] calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters) and the use of medical care services among a nationally representative sample of women. Design and setting Multistage cluster-area probability sampling survey. Data are from the Cancer Control and Health Insurance supplements of the 1992 National Health Interview Survey conducted by the National Center for Health Statistics. Respondents were 6981 women aged 18 years or older residing in the United States who self-reported sociodemographic information and the use of health care services. Main outcome measures Interval ( 3 years) since most recent mammography, clinical breast examination, gynecologic examination, and Papanicolaou smear and the number of physician visits in the year before the survey. Results When age, race, income, education, smoking, and health insurance status were adjusted for, the BMI was directly related to delaying clinical breast examinations, gynecologic examinations, and Papanicolaou smears. Obese women (BMI of 35) were more likely than nonobese women (BMI of 25) to delay clinical breast examinations (odds ratio, 1.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.00-1.58), gynecologic examinations (odds ratio, 1.39; 95% confidence interval, 1.15-1.69), and Papanicolaou smears (odds ratio, 1.29; 95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.58). The BMI was not significantly related to delays in mammography. It was also related to increased physician visits (P = .001). Conclusion Among women, an increased BMI is associated with decreased preventive health care services, which may exacerbate or even account for some of the increased health risks of obesity.
Palmar/Plantar Process Fractures of the Proximal Phalanx In 15 Horses

Fifteen fractures of the palmar or plantar process of the proximal phalanx in 15 horses are described. Ten were articular and five were nonarticular. Two modes of therapy were used depending on the location of the fracture. Nonarticular fractures were treated with stall rest or reduction in exercise, and articular fractures were treated with either surgical removal or internal fixation of the fragment. All horses that were operated on were sound within 6 months after surgery. Follow-up information was obtained on all horses through client questionnaire and race records in the racing breeds (Standardbred and Thoroughbred) and client questionnaire alone is the nonracing breeds (Quarterhorse and Arabian). Fourteen horses returned to an equal or better level of performance than before injury; one horse returned to a lower level of performance.
Actuation Torque Reduction in Parallel Robots Using Joint Compliance

This work studies in detail how the judicial application of compliance in parallel manipulators can produce manipulators that require significantly lower actuator effort within a range of desired operating conditions. We propose a framework that uses the Jacobian matrices of redundant parallel manipulators to consider the influence of compliance both in parallel with the actuated joints as well as the passive joints, greatly simplifying previous approaches. We also propose a simple optimization procedure to maximize the motor force reduction for desired regions of the workspace and range of external forces. We then apply the method to a Stewart-Gough platform and to a 3-URS (universal rotational and spherical joint) manipulator. Our results show that parallel manipulators with tasks that involve a preferred external force direction, as for instance, big weights in the platform, can see large reductions in actuator effort through the judicial use of compliant joints without significantly losing rigidity.
The impact of sunset review: A study of real estate licensing

This paper focuses on the impact that state sunset review has had on the real estate occupation's ability to restrict entry through the imposition of licensing requirements. The results presented indicate that the 1983 rejection rate for real estate brokers and salespersons was lower in states undergoing sunset review of real estate than in those states not undergoing such a review. Sunset appears to have the power to effect changes in the licensing behavior of the occupation considered in this analysis.
Real-time Optical Monitoring of Epitaxial Growth Processes by p-Polarized Reflectance Spectroscopy

In this paper we introduce a real-time optical probe technique, p-polarized reflectance spectroscopy (PRS), for the monitoring of epitaxial growth processes. GaP heteroepitaxy by pulsed chemical beam epitaxy (PCBE) is used as an example. PRS allows to follow the deposition process with submonolayer resolution, utilizing a fine structure that is superimposed to the interference oscillations in the reflected intensity. This fine structure is explained by the periodic alteration of the surface reaction chemistry under pulsed chemical precursor supply. In the case of epitaxial GaP growth, it is modeled for a four layer stack, including an ultra-thin surface reaction layer of periodically changing thickness do(t) and dielectric function eo(t) tied to the periodic surface exposure to tertiarybutyl phosphine (TBP) and triethylgallium (TEG) pulses, respectively. The imaginary part of the dielectric function, eO2, of this surface reaction layer can be determined directly from the distance of the inflection points in the fine structure, where the optical response to the first precursor pulse in the cycle sequence changes sign, from the closests interference minimum. The surface reaction kinetics can be studied by analyzing the decay time characteristic in the transients of the fine structure.
'Ak-ciñ 'arroyo mouth' and the environmental setting of the Papago Indian fields in the Sonoran Desert

Abstract The primary purpose of this discussion is to provide basic information regarding the environmental setting of Papago floodwater-fed fields that have been visited in recent years, to better understand the historic ecology of Papago Indian subsistence in the Sonoran Desert. It also analyses more detailed information regarding the physiographic position of extant fields to correct an historic misuse of the Piman term ' Ak-cin by scientists.
The assessment of cutting tool wear

Abstract Flank wear of cutting tools is often selected as the tool life criterion because it determines the diametric accuracy of machining, its stability and reliability. This paper argues that the existing criteria of flank wear are insufficient for its proper characterization. Their existence is due to the lack of knowledge on the contact conditions at the tool flank–workpiece interface. Known attempts to evaluate the physical processes at this interface do not help to resolve this issue. This paper compares different characteristics of the evaluation of flank wear. The contact process at the mentioned interface is analyzed through the experimental assessment of the contact stresses, and the full validity of Makarow’s law is confirmed, i.e. minimum tool wear occurs at the optimum cutting speed. A new concept of tool resources is proposed and discussed. This resource is defined as the limiting amount of energy that can be transmitted through the cutting wedge until it fails.
SEQUENCING THE HUMAN GENOME

The human genome project is at the halfway point. The genomes of 11 microbes, Escherichia coli, and yeast are finished, yet the human genome is only 2 percent finished. The scale-up to finish by 2005 presents a significant challenge.
Confronting Neoliberalism: Toward a Militant Pedagogy of Empowered Citizenship

This article is structured along two particularly pressing fault lines: (a) the educational arena and our work as critical pedagogues and engaged public intellectuals, and (b) the location of our r...
The making of Tamil Shaiva Siddhānta

From the late 19th century, Tamil nationalists, as represented by the Self-Respect Movement, promoted Shaiva Siddhānta as the 'original' Tamil religion in an imagined ancient past, where social equality and harmony reigned before Brahmans forced the caste system and other social ills on the Tamils. Claims that Shaiva Siddhānta is specifically Tamil and non- Brahman in origin or essence continue to inform debates concerning Dravidian identity, the rights of Brahman temple priests, and the language of Hindu worship. These arguments have also prompted scholarly inquiry into the history of Tamil Shaivism. Research shows that Shaiva Siddhānta first developed in central India among male Brahman spiritual lineages; a distinct regional variation developed later in the south, with non-Brahman Vēlāla leaders and authoritative writings in Tamil. However, traditional narratives of the lives of early non-Brahman gurus highlight the difficulty of transferring authority from Brahmans to Vēlālas, who are classified as Sh...
Oligomeric states of bacteriophage T7 gene 4 primase/helicase.

Electron microscopic and crystallographic data have shown that the gene 4 primase/helicase encoded by bacteriophage T7 can form both hexamers and heptamers. After cross-linking with glutaraldehyde to stabilize the oligomeric protein, hexamers and heptamers can be distinguished either by negative stain electron microscopy or electrophoretic analysis using polyacrylamide gels. We find that hexamers predominate in the presence of either dTTP or β,γ-methylene dTTP whereas the ratio between hexamers and heptamers is nearly the converse in the presence of dTDP. When formed, heptamers are unable to efficiently bind either single-stranded DNA or double-stranded DNA. We postulate that a switch between heptamer to hexamer may provide a ring-opening mechanism for the single-stranded DNA binding pathway. Accordingly, we observe that in the presence of both nucleoside di- and triphosphates the gene 4 protein exists as a hexamer when bound to single-stranded DNA and as a mixture of heptamer and hexamer when not bound to single-stranded DNA. Furthermore, altering regions of the gene 4 protein postulated to be conformational switches for dTTP-dependent helicase activity leads to modulation of the heptamer to hexamer ratio.
Some Properties of “Madrid” Liquids†

It has recently been suggested that stratification of the liquid−vapor interface may be a general structural characteristic of liquids that have a very small ratio of melting temperature to critical temperature, and a pair additive potential that generates a small ratio of melting temperature to critical temperature and a stratified liquid−vapor interface has been developed. In this paper, we examine whether a density independent pair potential that supports a stratified liquid−vapor interface also supports liquid and solid phases with realistic structures and properties. We describe a class of potential energy functions that support “Madrid” liquids, and we report the results of simulations of both the liquid−vapor interface structures and the bulk structures of two such liquids. One of the interesting results obtained is that a “Madrid” potential generates a solid that supports a premelting stage in the melting transition. Since, of simple substances composed of either atomic or very compact molecular s...
Work productivity and health of informal caregivers of persons with advanced cancer

The purpose of this study was to describe health promotion behaviors and work productivity loss in informal caregivers of individuals with advanced stage cancer. Using a cross-sectional, correlational design, 70 caregivers completed measures of health behaviors, mood, social support, and burden. Absenteeism and presenteeism were evaluated in employed caregivers (n = 40). Caregivers reported low levels of physical activity. The mean percentage of work productivity loss due to caregiving was 22.9%. Greater work productivity loss was associated with greater number of caregiving hours, higher cancer stage, married status, and greater anxiety, depression, and burden related to financial problems, disrupted schedule, and health. Nurses should assess caregivers and provide health promotion interventions, which may ultimately reduce the economic impact of caregiving. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 34:483–495, 2011
Protocols for Characterizing Aeolian Mass-Flux Profiles

Abstract This paper describes a protocol for characterizing and analyzing the vertical mass-flux profiles above erodible beds in natural aeolian environments. Three main areas of methodological inconsistencies are explored, using two field data sets, to demonstrate the variability of results caused by methodological choices associated with: (1) inconsistent representation of sediment trap elevations; (2) erroneous or sub-optimal regression analysis; and (3) inadequate or ambiguous bed elevation measurements. The recommended methodology is physically based, produces results that most closely represent the measured data, and will permit results from different field and laboratory studies to be compared using a standardized convention. The recommended protocol suggests the following: (1) measure vertical flux profiles with as many traps as feasible with shorter traps near the bed; (2) measure bed elevation before, during, and after data collection; (3) use the geometric mean to represent trap centers; (4) use the saltation-enhanced aerodynamic roughness length when approximating the bottom elevation of traps deployed at the bed (0 mm); (5) plot vertical mass-flux data with height above the bed as the independent variable; and (6) fit vertical mass-flux curves using non-linear, exponential curve fitting.
Rapid Generation of Antibodies against the HTLV-II External Envelope Protein by Growth of Mouse Plasmacytomas in SCID Mice

Recombinant human T-cell leukemia virus type II (HTLV-II) envelope external glycoprotein, gp46-II, was expressed using a vaccinia virus vector. A recombinant gp46-II fused to an epitope of the influenza virus hemagglutinin, YPYDVPDYA, was purified by immunoaffinity chromatography. The purified glycoprotein was used to immunize Balb/c mice, and antibodies against gp46-II were detected by Western blot analysis and syncytium inhibition assays. We transformed spleen cells from the immunized mice by retroviral infection with ABL-MYC (psi 2) and intraperitoneally transplanted the infected cells into syngeneic Balb/c and severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice. The plasmacytomas established ascitic tumors that produced antibodies directed against HTLV-II gp46-II. Ascites developed more rapidly in SCID mice than in normal syngeneic mice. This procedure provides a general means to generate antibodies rapidly.