cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
THE REDUCTION OF DSC CURVES AND THE CALCULATION OF REFINED AUTOCATALYTIC RATE CONSTANTS BY A COMPUTER TECHNIQUE

A previous report1 gave the results of a study in which the kinetic scheme could be determined for a reacting system initially in the solid state. The instrument utilized was a differential scanning calorimeter which was operated in the isothermal mode. The present report describes two refinements of the previously described analytical procedure and also extends the studies to decomposition in matrix.
Definition and Manipulation of Graphical Entities in Geographic Information Systems

Geographic information systems have much in common with generalized data base management systems. Both types of systems require the definition of items, attributes, and higher level constructs involving them, e.g. records. Geographic information systems deal in addition with graphical entities, a concept unknown in data base management systems. Not surprisingly, geographic systems have little in common; each one is a new "invention." This paper explores the graphic requirements of two typical geographic information systems with the aim of identifying how such entities are defined, used, and stored in a data base. Examples are drawn from a cartographic system where only graphic display is important, and a query system where graphical entities play an important role in both extraction and display of data. Conclusions are drawn in terms of the shortcomings of generalized data base management systems with regard to data definition, data storage, and data manipulation. The interdependence of these operations is discussed, illustrating that the way in which a graphical entity is manipulated by the user impacts on its definition and storage.
Technology Acceptance Model And The Unified Theory Of Acceptance And Use Of Technology

This article presents an overview of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. I trace its origins, which relates back to the technology acceptance model, and discuss related models. I share some of my experiences, as an author, editor, and reviewer, to identify some common problems in current research investigations in this area. Drawing on these lessons, I make suggestions for future research on this topic. Keywords: TAM; UTAUT; technology use; technology diffusion; technology adoption
Social Networks, Cognition, and Culture

CHAPTER Social Networks, Cognition, and Culture Douglas R. White N ETWORKS Network studies are an important adjunct to further development of cognitive anthro- pology and theory. When reliable means of identifying relational properties of behav- ior, cognition, and cultural structures or systems are available they help overcome limitations of other types of descriptive studies, descriptive statistics, or ad hoc infer- ences about how mind, culture, and social behavior interact. Roles Roles form into key network and institutional structures which can be understood in rela- tion to social processes. Network ethnography can also operate in this way to further understanding (White and Johansen 2006:ch. 1). Network studies enhance our under- standings of cause and effects of emergent roles and their dynamical patterns of shifting stability, including hierarchy. Finding hierarchy and its network embeddings, for example, often depends on global as well as local information on how local patterns fit within global ones. Both the understanding of global network structure and analysis of micro–macro linkages are additional advantages. If we wanted to find the leaders in a large urban com- munity (see Freeman et al. 1960), for example, we could start from a sample of potential leaders, ask them who the leaders are, and iteratively construct a snowball sample of higher order leaders until finally a leader sub-network or evidence of a single leader emerges. Cohesive groups Cohesive groups have patterned interactions that are self-reinforcing and self-stabilizing in certain spatio-temporal frames. Study of these interactions can also account for indi- vidual choices, the emergence of cohesive units as socially and cognitively recognizable A Companion to Cognitive Anthropology, First Edition. Edited By David B. Kronenfeld, Giovanni Bennardo, Victor C. de Munck, and Michael D. Fischer. © 2011 Blackwell Publishing Ltd. Published 2011 by Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
Mechanistic Insights into Notch Receptor Signaling from Structural and Biochemical Studies

Notch proteins are the receptors in a highly conserved signal transduction system used to communicate signals between cells that contact each other. Studies investigating structure-function relationships in Notch signaling have gained substantial momentum in recent years. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the molecular logic of Notch signal transduction, emphasizing structural and biochemical studies of Notch receptors, their ligands, and complexes of intracellular Notch proteins with their target transcription factors. Recent advances in the structure-based modulation of Notch-signaling activity are also discussed.
Sea Surface Temperature Predictions in NCEP CFSv2 Using a Simple Ocean Initialization Scheme

AbstractIn contrast to operational climate predictions based on sophisticated ocean data assimilation schemes at the National Centers for Environmental Predictions (NCEP), this study applied a simple ocean initialization scheme to the NCEP latest seasonal prediction model, the Climate Forecast System, version 2 (CFSv2). In the scheme, sea surface temperature (SST) was the only observed information applied to derive ocean initial states. The physical basis for the method is that, through air–sea coupling, SST is capable of reproducing some observed features of ocean evolutions by forcing the atmospheric winds. SST predictions based on the scheme are compared against hindcasts from the National (lately North American) Multimodel Ensemble (NMME) project.It was found that due to substantial biases in the tropical eastern Pacific in the ocean initial conditions produced by SST assimilation, ENSO SST predictions were not as good as those with sophisticated initialization schemes (e.g., hindcasts in the NMME pro...
Melodic Dictation Instruction: A Survey of Advanced Placement Music Theory Teachers

Based on relevant literature and recent qualitative findings, the purpose of this survey research was to identify pedagogical approaches to melodic dictation employed by Advanced Placement (AP) Music Theory teachers across the United States. The researcher-designed survey questions focused on pitch and rhythm skills, instructional resources, dictation strategies, test-taking skills, and characteristics of successful dictation students. The survey was distributed online to a stratified random sample of 875 AP Music Theory teachers across the United States. Of these recipients, 398 participants from 49 states and the District of Columbia completed the survey, yielding a 45.5% return rate. Results indicated that teachers preferred pitch systems that emphasized scale degree function and rhythm systems that emphasized the meter. Participants also reported the influence of the AP exam on their dictation teaching and described their need for additional instructional time and better preparation for teaching aural...
Analysis of the process of sheath expansion in swollen nerve fibers

Abstract 1. Reactive axon swellings in the proximal stumps of rat sciatic nerves were studied at 1–8 days after transection of the nerves. Sheath thickness and axon circumference were measured in plastic-embedded 1 μm sections; the axon circumference, the number of turns of myelin lamellae in the sheath and the interperiod width were determined in electron micrographs. Measurements in 1 μm sections were a reliable implement for the analysis of pathological fiber population. All data were subjected to statisticak regression analysis by computer. 2. Reconstruction of fibers from serial 1 μm sections showed that reactive axon swellings did not develop in the terminal stump of the fiber, but, rather, at some distance from the stump; the portion distal to the zone of swelling was continuous with the rest of the fiber, and the sheaths were collapsed. 3. Swelling of the axon was accompanied by an increase in axon circumference, a reduction in the number of turns of myelin lamellae, and by an unaltered interperiod width. These data constitute proof of slippage of myelin lamellae. Excessive slippage resulted in denudation of the axon. 4. The changes in fiber structure resulting from different degrees of axonal swelling were calculated; these calculated changes agreed with actual measurements in swollen fibers. Accordingly, the number of turns of myelin lamellae and the axon circumference of a swollen fiber permit determination of the degree of axonal swelling. An estimate of the dimension of the fiber before the onset of swelling is also possible. 5. Fibers with marked slippage of the sheath showed islands of cytoplasm underneath an intact basement membrane. These were interpreted as resulting from sequestration by tearing of the outer mesaxon, which presumably cannot be displaced with the same speed as the myelin leaflets in the sheath can slip. 6. The expansion of the sheath and the denudation of excessively swollen fibers was an acute process, occurring mostly during the first 4 days after cutting; thereafter, the majority of fibers showed normal proportions between axon and sheath, or they were denuded because of excessive swelling. 7. A new technique, using plastic-embedded 1 μm sections, was developed for the demonstration of oxidative enzyme activity in mitochondria. This technique showed swelling of the fiber to correspond to a progressive increase in mitochondrial density in the axoplasm. Maximum mitochondrial density was found in excessively expanded or denuded fibers.
The role of surface plasmon polariton excitation in Laser Induced Periodic Structure formation after single-shot ultrafast irradiation of Au microstructures

Single-shot ultrafast irradiation of Au microstructures on Si substrates forms Laser Induced Periodic Structures (LIPS) on Si surfaces near features. Surface plasmon polariton excitation influences LIPS formation for certain polarization vector orientations with edges.
Twenty Minutes to Mastery of the Cyrillic Alphabet

Every teacher of Russian knows that sooner or later the Cyrillic alphabet must be taught in all elementary Russian courses. Unfortunately, the process of teaching and learning the alphabet for many is dull and time-consuming. But teaching and learning the alphabet need not be simply an activity to be tolerated. Alphabet acquisition can actually be achieved rapidly, enjoyably, and successfully. How? Through the application of mnemonic research. The method described in this article teaches students to recognize the entire Cyrillic alphabet in twenty minutes. The syntax of the model is based on Lorayne and Lucas's Memory Model of Instruction. Within the syntax are five phases: attending to the materials, developing connections in class, practicing recall, using the information memorized as a basis for acquiring new information, and testing recall over time. The success of the model stems from the fact that the syntax is based on current, very convincing theories of information processing, many of which originate with Piaget's work in mnemonics and learning. The differences between long- and short-term memory and their significance for alphabet acquisition are discussed. The syntax of the model also takes into account other key information processing concepts, such as the dependence of memory on understanding, a variable of which is age, and the enhancement of memory by heightened awareness. A letter presentation order and accompanying suggested word list is given, as well as a sample in-class or homework exercise.
Representing design tradeoffs in safety-critical systems

Different fault-tolerance strategies have been shown to be effective at achieving fail-safe behavior in a number of safety-critical application domains with different dependability, service, and cost requirements. A technique for comparing the domain profiles and their fault-tolerance strategies could assist architects of new safety-critical systems in choosing an appropriate fault-tolerance strategy. We suggest an approach using Kiviat graphs to visually represent the dependability, service, and cost profile of a system, and show how such a graph can be used to analyze automotive x-by-wire applications.
Dendritic Surfactants Show Evidence for Frustrated Intercalation: A New Organoclay Morphology

Mixing a smectite clay with some dendritic surfactants shows that despite the large size of some of these molecules, a property that frustrates complete intercalation into the gallery of the clay, organoclay materials are obtained. X-ray powder diffraction (XPD) reveals no significant increases in lattice spacing as these surfactants are added. Infrared (IR) spectroscopy and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) show that interlayer water is preserved. Consistent with an undisturbed interlayer, the amount of organic material in organoclays derived from frustrated surfactants does not exceed 15% of the cationic exchange capacity (CEC) of the composite. Smaller dendritic surfactants do not display frustrated intercalation and instead readily enter into the gallery of the smectic clay yielding traditional organoclay materials. A range of organic compositions (5−50% w/w) that exceed the CEC of the materials are observed. The organic content is corroborated by UV spectroscopy and TGA. XPD reveals increasing latti...
UV curing systems for automotive refinish applications

The combination of the UV flash equipment, which generates UV flashes in short intervals with a high and homogenous energy density, with UV curing systems for automotive refinish leads to a perfectly suitable procedure especially for spot- and micro-repair applications. The UV curing refinish primer technology is well introduced in the market and the repair process time can be reduced by up to 50% compared to conventional systems. The visualization of the reaction grade and speed of the UV-induced radical polymerization is important for development. The skillful combination of the UV flash equipment with a FTIR instrument enables real-time measurements under application oriented UV curing conditions. The influence of applied UV intensity, oxygen inhibition and effectiveness of the polymerization reaction is investigated.
Extended control of marine fouling: formulation of a microencapsulated liquid organometallic biocide and vinyl rosin paint

A process for microencapsulation by complex coacervation, introduced by Green and Schleider in 1957, produced a dry powder form of the liquid biocide tributyltin chloride (TBTCL). Static immersion testing of fiberglass panels painted with the shipbottom paint formulated with 14% w/w TBTCL microcapsules (10–30 µm diam.) gave excellent test results (0% fouling for up to 49 mo) when three coats of this paint were applied to panels. Rationale for the extension of protection against attachment and growth of common marine forms in this formulation are given.
Identification and validation of reference genes for expression studies in human keratinocyte cell lines treated with and without interferon-γ - a method for qRT-PCR reference gene determination.

We conclude that the geometric means of expression values of these four genes represents a robust normalization factor for qRT-PCR analyses in interferon-γ-dependent gene expression studies in keratinocytes. The methodology and results herein may help other researchers by facilitating their choice of reference genes.
Bubble formation from a sparger in polymer solutions—II. Moving liquid

Abstract The role of the motion of a viscous or rheologically complex continuous liquid phase in the process of bubble formation has been investigated. The sequence of pictures obtained using a high-speed photographic technique compares the bubble formation in various polymeric liquids and water in terms of shape, final volume, inclination and the neck length of the bubble. Based on these high-speed motion pictures a theoretical analysis has been developed to study the process of bubble formation under the influence of a large shear rate imposed by the flowing liquid. The analysis contributes to the modelling of gas-liquid phase mixing equipment such as stirred-tank reactors, fermentors, bubble aerators etc.
Astrophysical implications and observational prospects of X-ray polarimetry

X-ray polarimetry is a prime tool for investigating the physics of compact objects, which has not been adequately exploited thus far. However, current low-cost technology and modest launch requirements could provide a large number of positive observations with a sensitivity factor at least 100 greater than 10 years ago.The amount of astrophysical information potentially to be gained from this is enormous. The introduction of polarimetric information (direction and degree) would bring a quantum jump in the parameter space used to investigate compact objects, from the current two (spectra and time variability) to four independent parameters that models need to satisfy. This should greatly improve our ability to discriminate between various possible models. Such observations could lead to an elucidation of the rotation-powered and accretion-powered pulsar radiation mechanisms, could help clinch the identification of black hole canditates, and could decide between thermal and nonthermal AGN radiation models, as well as pin down the geometry of the accretion flows in both galactic and extragalactic sources.
Effects of drugs on the negative (backflow) component of velocity patterns in the dog aorta.

Using an accurately calibrated flowmeter in the descending thoracic aorta of the dog, a study was made of alterations in aortic flow patterns following intravenous and intraarterial injections of vasoactive drugs. When injected distal to the flowmeter, vasopressors caused marked backflow while vasodilators raised the level of the lowest portion of the pulsatile flow curve. When injected into the brachiocephalic artery, vasopressors prevented the development of a significant negative component whereas vasodilators caused the appearance of backflow, or augmented that which was already present. All acute elevations or decreases in peripheral resistance due to drugs were accompanied by increases in the negative or ‘backward’ phase of flow in diastole. A significant negative flow component was noted only during these acute adjustments. A temporary differential in resistances of the upper and lower portions of the arterial circulation protected cerebral and coronary blood flow during acute haemodynamic adjustments.
Small Bowel Enteroscopy

Technologic advancements in visualization of the small bowel with wireless capsule endoscopy (WCE) (Given Imaging Ltd., Yoqneam, Israel) and the double-balloon electronic enteroscopy system (Fujiron, Japan) have created an excitement and thirst for additional knowledge of the small bowel. We now have the means to diagnose and possibly endoscopically obtain histology and treat these maladies, which heretofore has been possible only in the surgical realm. Bleeding is not boccultQ but originates from the small bowel. We have learned through these two new technologies that small bowel radiology will go the way of full column barium enema, which is used only to obtain information about luminal patency or in circumstances that preclude endoscopic advancement. Sources of bleeding have been identified earlier, which has resulted in our ultimate goal: improved patient quality of life. Visualization of early changes of disease has changed our understanding of their natural history. Small bowel tumors initially present with bleeding, not obstruction, and approximately two thirds are malignant. Celiac disease is much more common than we had realized and has a wide spectrum of presentations. It may be complicated by ulcers, strictures, and tumors. WCE allows for its diagnosis as well as diagnose its complications. WCE has a multiplicity of roles in patients with suspected or known Crohn’s disease. It allows the explanation of symptoms in patients with negative radiological studies, may make a diagnosis in patients with intermediate colitis, and established that Crohn’s disease is the cause of iron deficiency anemia in a patient who is otherwise asymptomatic. Gastrointest Endoscopy Clin N Am
The THCRE2 site in the rat tyrosine hydroxylase gene promoter is responsive to phorbol ester

Abstract Recently, our laboratory has identified a tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) gene promoter element, THCRE2 (located at −97 to −90), that is required for maximal response to cyclic AMP. In this study we test whether the THCRE2 is responsive to phorbol ester. Rat PC12 cells were transfected with a reporter gene construct, TH(−272/+27)-CAT, which is driven by the first 272 bp of the rat TH gene 5′ flanking region. Treatment of transfected cells with 0.1 μ M 12- O -tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA) elicited a 5–6-fold increase in TH gene proximal promoter activity. Mutagenesis of the THCRE2 sequence diminished TPA-responsiveness of the TH gene promoter by approximately 50%. Minimal promoter constructs driven by a single copy of the region of the TH gene that encodes the THCRE2 (from −117 to −59) were also responsive to TPA. Our results suggest that the THCRE2 is a phorbol ester-responsive element, as well as a cyclic AMP-responsive element.
Selection of a single antigenic type of rabbit light chains by the 2,4-dinitrophenyl hapten.

Abstract Two antigenic types of rabbit chains (Ra and Rb) were readily distinguished by a goat antiserum to rabbit Fab. Both types were present in all rabbit sera tested irrespective of the serum allotype. Two preparations of purified antibody to the 2,4-dinitrophenyl hapten and a purified anti-p-azobenzenearsonic acid antibody each contained only Rb light chains. Treatment of pooled normal light chains with cyanogen bromide to cleave methionine residues destroyed antigenic sites of Ra light chains but had no apparent effect of antigenic sites of Rb light chains. The major N-terminal amino acid released by cyanogen bromide cleavage was threonine.
PHEROMONES OF HAMSTER VAGINAL DISCHARGE Attraction to Femtogram Amounts of Dimethyl Disulfide and to Mixtures of Volatile Components

The responses of normal male hamsters to the odors of several components of estrous female hamster vaginal discharge (FHVD) were quantified with a two-bottle preference test in order to clarify the role of dimethyl disulfide (DMDS) and dimethyl trisulfide (DMTS) in the attraction of males to females. These two compounds were originally isolated and identified in two separate, behaviorally active fractions of FHVD, one containing DMDS and the second containing DMTS. However, only authentic DMDS proved to be attractive to males; DMTS was inactive in the amounts tested (50 ng to 10 μg). When smaller amounts of highly purified samples of DMTS (0.03–3.32 ng) are assayed, measurable amounts of activity are obtained. This activity of authentic DMTS is not due to any intrinsic activity of its own but rather can be ascribed to the activity of the residual DMDS (0.07%) that it contains. Highly purified samples of authentic DMDS (containing 0.03% DMTS) were again found to be attractive to males. Doses as small as 500 fg were significantly active when compared to controls. Arguments are presented suggesting that the behaviorally effective dose of DMDS is several orders of magnitude less than 500 fg. Deliberate mixtures of DMDS and DMTS failed to show any synergistic effects. In fact, at the two lowest doses examined (0.1 and 0.46 ng total sulfides), the response obtained with the mixture was smaller than that expected if DMDS were the only odorant in the solution. Therefore, DMTS seems to suppress the activity of DMDS.
NEW‐TPI thermoplastic polyimide: Structure and relaxation using SAXS and TSDC

The thermoplastic polyimide RegulusTM NEW-TPI has been studied using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC). SAXS was used to study the development of lamellar structure during isothermal or nonisothermal crystallization. The one-dimensional electron-density correlation function was used to determine structural parameters. The long period, lamellar thickness, and amorphous layer thickness increase as crystallization temperature increases from 300 to 360°C. By combining melting-point data with SAXS results, we report the side and fold surface free energies of NEW-TPI crystals, which are 29 ± 3 and 41 ± 3 erg/cm2, respectively. Real-time SAXS was carried during nonisothermal cold-crystallization at 5°C/min. The long period decreases, while lamellar thickness, linear crystallinity, and interphase thickness increase, with increasing temperature. These changes are explained by a crystal-insertion model. TSDC was used as a more sensitive probe of the amorphous phase structure below 300°C. Both semicrystalline and amorphous NEW-TPI exhibit complex TSDC behavior. Above the glass transition, amorphous NEW-TPI has a strong TSDC peak attributed to short-range-ordered structures, which may serve as nucleation sites for subsequent crystallization. This peak was not seen in semicrystalline material. At the glass transition, both amorphous and semicrystalline NEW-TPI have a strong TSDC peak. In the semicrystalline polymer, relaxation of the amorphous dipoles is slightly restricted by the crystals, which results in a smaller relaxation peak and a shift to higher temperature. Below Tg, another TSDC peak occurs which is not due to dipolar relaxation. This peak is attributed to the combined effects of space charge, electrode type, ionizable species, and interfacial charges. © 1995 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Advanced refactorings in eclipse

We will demonstrate several advanced refactorings for Java that have been implemented in the context of the Eclipse development environment for Java (see www.eclipse.org). These refactorings are semantics-preserving program transformations that are typical of the sorts of transformations object-oriented programmers perform manually in order to improve the structure of existing code, and to promote reuse, clarity, and extensibility.Our demonstration will consist of three parts: (i) a quick review of the implementation in Eclipse of several widely-used refactorings such as Extract Method, Introduce Factory and Change Method Signature as described in Fowler's seminal book on refactoring, (ii) a demonstration of generalization-related refactorings such as Extract Interface, for extracting an interface from a class in order to reduce client dependencies on implementation particulars, and Generalize Type, for remediating over-specific declarations, and (iii) a demonstration of Genericize Container Uses, a refactoring that we are currently developing for migrating occurrences of standard container classes such as ArrayList or HashMap in a user's program to instantiations of the generic versions of these container classes in Java 1.5 (e.g., ArrayList). This involves determining the element types that flow into each container object, modifying their declarations and allocations sites where possible, and removing casts that have been rendered redundant.The latter two categories of refactorings involve non-trivial static analysis, as well as challenging usability issues from a software engineering perspective, which reflect the complications that programmers face when performing the transformations manually. Therefore, during each demonstration, we will give a brief overview of the technical challenges that the refactorings present, along with highlights of the approach we took in addressing them. In particular, we will briefly describe a new piece of Eclipse infrastructure designed to help implement various kinds of context-sensitive and context-insensitive type and pointer analyses for Java.
Ll2 Al3 Ti-based alloys with Al2Ti precipitates—II. Deformation behavior of single crystals

Abstract The operating slip systems and flow behavior of single crystalline Al66.8Ti27.4Fe5.8, a two phase Ll2 + Al2Ti material, was investigated as a function of temperatures using specimens with compressive axes near [001], [ 1 13], [ 1 12], [013] and [ 1 33]. The material shows a very limited compressive ductility, and fracture occurs by cleavage along planes of low indices, such as {011}, {001}, {013} and {111}. Slip occurs exclusively on the octahedral slip systems at low temperatures, and on both octahedral and cube systems at high temperatures. A transition in operating slip systems from octahedral slip to cube slip, similar to the one seen in Ni3Al-type alloys, occurs as the temperature increases and as the orientation of the specimens change from near-[001] to near-[ 1 11]. The transition in slip system is attributed to the hardening effect of the Al2Ti precipitates, rather than to the anisotropy of APB energy on cube and octahedral slip planes of the matrix. Because of the large hardening effect of the Al2Ti, the two phase material is substantially stronger than single Ll2 phase materials. The shape (but not the level) of the flow stress-temperature curve for the two phase material resembles that of the single phase Ll2 material at low and intermediate temperatures. At high temperatures, however, the flow stress of the two phase material exhibits a sharp decrease, a feature which is not observed in the single phase Ll2 materials and can be correlated with a continuous dissolution of the Al2Ti precipitates at high temperatures.
Prospects for a Kantian Machine

A rule-based ethical theory is a good candidate for the practical reasoning of machine ethics because it generates duties or rules for action, and rules are computationally tractable. Among principle- or rule-based theories, the first formulation of Kant's categorical imperative offers a formalizable procedure. We explore a version of machine ethics along the lines of Kantian formalist ethics, both to suggest what computational structures such a view would require and to see what challenges remain for its successful implementation. In reformulating Kant for the purposes of machine ethics, we consider three views of how the categorical imperative works: mere consistency, commonsense practical reasoning, and coherency. The first view envisions straightforward deductions of actions from facts. The second view incorporates recent work in nonmonotonic logic and commonsense reasoning. The last view takes ethical deliberation to follow a logic similar to that of belief revision
Pituitary pathology in patients with Carney Complex: growth-hormone producing hyperplasia or tumors and their association with other abnormalities

First described in the mid 80’s, Carney Complex (CNC) is a rare, dominantly heritable disorder with features overlapping those of McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS) and other multiple endocrine neoplasia (MEN) syndromes like MEN type 1 (MEN 1). Pituitary tumors have been described in a number of patients with CNC; they present with elevated growth hormone (GH) levels and mild hyperprolactinemia. However, most patients with CNC have mild hypersomatomammotropinemia starting in adolescence; this is similar to the situation in MAS patients: in both disorders, pituitary hyperplasia appears to precede tumor development. Familial pituitary tumor syndromes such as CNC provide an important insight into the genetics and molecular pathology of pituitary and other endocrine tumors. Our understanding of these conditions is expanding rapidly due to the identification of the causative genes and the availability of murine disease models. The present report reviews the clinical findings related to pituitary tumor development among patients with CNC and provides an update on murine models of the complex.
Ultradense, Deep Subwavelength Nanowire Array Photovoltaics As Engineered Optical Thin Films

A photovoltaic device comprised of an array of 20 nm wide, 32 nm pitch array of silicon nanowires is modeled as an optical material. The nanowire array (NWA) has characteristic device features that are deep in the subwavelength regime for light, which permits a number of simplifying approximations. Using photocurrent measurements as a probe of the absorptance, we show that the NWA optical properties can be accurately modeled with rigorous coupled-wave analysis. The densely structured NWAs behave as homogeneous birefringent materials into the ultraviolet with effective optical properties that are accurately modeled using the dielectric functions of bulk Si and SiO2, coupled with a physical model for the NWA derived from ellipsometry and transmission electron microscopy.
Late Precambrian bilaterians: grades and clades

Abstract A broad variety of body plans and subplans appear during a period of perhaps 8 million years (my) within the Early Cambrian, an unequaled explosion of morphological novelty, the ancestral lineages represented chiefly or entirely by trace fossils. Evidence from the fossil record can be combined with that from molecular phylogenetic trees to suggest that the last common ancestor of (i) protostomes and deuterostomes was a roundish worm with a blood vascular system and (ii) of arthropods and annelids was similar, with a hydrostatic hemocoel; these forms are probably among trace makers of the late Precambrian. Cell-phenotype numbers in living phyla, and a model of cell-phenotype number increase, suggest an origin of metazoans near 600 my ago, followed by a passive rise in body-plan complexity. Living phyla appearing during the Cambrian explosion have a Hox/HOM gene cluster, implying its presence in the common ancestral trace makers. The explosion required a repatterning of gene expression that mediated the development of novel body plans but evidently did not require an important, abrupt increase in genomic or morphologic complexity.
Inter-University software engineering using web services

We have been funded by the National Science Foundation [6] to investigate the feasibility of distributing large software engineering projects across multiple universities at remote locations. This paper reports on the use of web services to make such inter-university cooperation feasible. The TRavel Itinerary Planner (TRIP), a year long project, was implemented at three universities: Appalachian State University, North Carolina A&T, and DePaul University. After discussing our methodology based on web services we describe the inter-university cooperation that was achieved on this project. We then describe problems encountered and their solutions and conclude with a brief description of a different project that we will develop during the 2006-2007 academic year.
The occurrence of beta-glucocerebrosidase activity in the glucocerebroside-rich deposits of Gaucher's disease.

Glucocerebroside-rich membrane deposits were isolated from the spleen of a patient with Gaucher's disease and purified extensively by sucrose-gradient methods. These low density (1.08 g/ml) Gaucher deposits yield a single sharp band when centrifuged to equilibrium on a continuous sucrose gradient. Fractions from the gradient which contain the deposits will release glucose from the artificial substrate 4-methylumbelliferyl- β - d -glucopyranoside and β -glucocerebroside. The specific activity of the β -glucosidase associated with the Gaucher deposits was nearly twice that of a crude extract of the same spleen from which the deposits were obtained. The β -glucosidase activity of the purified deposits has a pH optimum of 5.1 and is considerably more heat stable than soluble and membrane-bound forms of the enzyme isolated from the same homogenate. The K m obtained using 4-methylumbelliferyl- β - d -glucopyranoside was 0.062 m m for the Gaucher deposit-associated enzyme, a value which is at least 10-fold lower than that of soluble and membrane-bound form of β -glucosidase derived from either normal or Gaucher spleen. These observations demonstrate that the glycolipid-laden deposits which accumulate in individuals with Gaucher's disease contain significant amounts of β -glucosidase activity which may be capable of glucocerebroside mobilization.
Equilibrium condensation from chondritic porous IDP enriched vapor: Implications for Mercury and enstatite chondrite origins

Abstract The origin of Mercury's anomalous core and low FeO surface mineralogy are outstanding questions in planetary science. Mercury's composition may result from cosmochemical controls on the precursor solids that accreted to form Mercury. High temperatures and enrichment in solid condensates are likely conditions near the midplane of the inner solar protoplanetary disk. Silicate liquids similar to the liquids quenched in ferromagnesian chondrules are thermodynamically stable in oxygen-rich systems that are highly enriched in dust of CI-chondrite composition. In contrast, the solids surviving into the orbit of Mercury's accretion zone were probably similar to highly unequilibrated, anhydrous, interstellar organic- and presolar grain-bearing chondritic, porous interplanetary dust particles (C-IDPs). Chemical systems enriched in an assumed C-IDP composition dust produce condensates (solid+liquid assemblages in equilibrium with vapor) with super-chondritic atomic Fe/Si ratios at high temperatures, approaching 50% of that estimated for bulk Mercury. Sulfur behaves as a refractory element, but at lower temperatures, in these chemical systems. Stable minerals are FeO-poor, and include CaS and MgS, species found in enstatite chondrites. Disk gradients in volatile compositions of planetary and asteroidal precursors can explain Mercury's anomalous composition, as well as enstatite chondrite and aubrite parent body compositions. This model predicts high sulfur content, and very low FeO content of Mercury's surface rocks.
The functional anatomy of the shoulder in the European starling (Sturnus vulgaris)

The excursions of wing elements and the activity of eleven shoulder muscles were studied by cineradiography and electromyography in European starlings (Sturnus vulgaris) flying in a wind tunnel at speeds of 9–20 m s−1. At the beginning of downstroke the humerus is elevated 80–90° above horizontal, and both elbow and wrist are extended to 90° or less. During downstroke, protraction of the humerus (55°) remains constant; elbow and wrist are maximally extended (120° and 160°, respectively) as the humerus passes through a horizontal orientation. During the downstroke-upstroke transition humeral depression ceases (at about 20° below horizontal) and the humerus begins to retract. However, depression of the distal wing continues by rotation of the humerus and adduction of the carpometacarpus. Humeral retraction (to within about 30° of the body axis) is completed early in upstroke, accompanied by flexion of the elbow and carpometacarpus. Thereafter the humerus begins to protract as elevation continues. At mid-upstroke a rapid counterrotation of the humerus reorients the ventral surface of the wing to face laterad; extension of the elbow and carpometacarpus are initiated sequentially. The upstroke-downstroke transition is characterized by further extension of the elbow and carpometacarpus, and the completion of humeral protraction. Patterns of electromyographic activity primarily coincide with the transitional phases of the wingbeat cycle rather than being confined to downstroke or upstroke. Thus, the major downstroke muscles (pectoralis, coracobrachialis caudalis, sternocoracoideus, subscapularis, and humerotriceps) are activated in late upstroke to decelerate, extend, and reaccelerate the wing for the subsequent downstroke; electromyographic activity ends well before the downstroke is completed. Similarly, the upstroke muscles (supracoracoideus, deltoideus major) are activated in late downstroke to decelerate and then reaccelerate the wing into the upstroke; these muscles are deactivated by mid-upstroke. Only two muscles (scapulohumeralis caudalis, scapulotriceps) exhibit electromyographic activity exclusively during the downstroke. Starlings exhibit a functional partitioning of the two heads of the triceps (the humerotriceps acts with the pectoralis group, and does not overlap with the scapulotriceps). The biphasic pattern of the biceps brachii appears to correspond to this partitioning.
Self-assembling process of flash nanoprecipitation in a multi-inlet vortex mixer to produce drug-loaded polymeric nanoparticles

We present an experimental study of self-assembled polymeric nanoparticles in the process of flash nanoprecipitation using a multi-inlet vortex mixer (MIVM). β-Carotene and polyethyleneimine (PEI) are used as a model drug and a macromolecule, respectively, and encapsulated in diblock copolymers. Flow patterns in the MIVM are microscopically visualized by mixing iron nitrate (Fe(NO3)3) and potassium thiocyanate (KSCN) to precipitate Fe(SCN) (3−)+ . Effects of physical parameters, including Reynolds number, supersaturation rate, interaction force, and drug-loading rate, on size distribution of the nanoparticle suspensions are investigated. It is critical for the nanoprecipitation process to have a short mixing time, so that the solvent replacement starts homogeneously in the reactor. The properties of the nanoparticles depend on the competitive kinetics of polymer aggregation and organic solute nucleation and growth. We report the existence of a threshold Reynolds number over which nanoparticle sizes become independent of mixing. A similar value of the threshold Reynolds number is confirmed by independent measurements of particle size, flow-pattern visualization, and our previous numerical simulation along with experimental study of competitive reactions in the MIVM.
The Need for a Research Focus on the Possible Causal Link Between Violent Behavior and Videogames

This special double issue marks the beginning of the 30th year of publication for Computers in the Schools (CIS), as well as the first issue of a new year. Landmark dates such as these are certainl...
Extramammary Paget's disease--occupational exposure to used engine oil and a new skin grafting technique.

Summary Extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) is a rare intraepithelial adenocarcinoma, affecting mainly 50–70-year-olds with a female preponderance of 3:1. Exposure to polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is associated with a substantial risk of skin cancer. We report a case of 64-year-old male with longstanding occupational exposure to used engine oil presenting with EMPD of the left scrotum and groin.
A study on the mechanical and electrical reliability of individual carbon nanotube field emission cathodes

Individual carbon nanotube (CNT) field emission characteristics present a number of advantages for potential applications in electron microscopy and electron beam lithography. Mechanical and electrical reliability of individual CNT cathodes, however, remains a challenge and thus device integration of these cathodes has been limited. In this work, we present an investigation into the reliability issues concerning individual CNT field emission cathodes. We also introduce and analyze the reliability of a novel individual CNT cathode. The cathode structure is composed of a multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT) attached by Joule heating to a nickel-coated Si microstructure. The junction of the CNT and the Si microstructure is mechanically and electrically robust to withstand the strong electric field conditions that are typical for field emission devices. An optimal Ni film coating of 25 nm on the Si microstructure is required for mechanical and electrical stability. Experimental current–voltage data for the new cathode structure definitively demonstrates carbon nanotube field emission. Additionally, we demonstrate that our new nanofabrication method is capable of producing sophisticated cathode structures that were previously not realizable, such as one consisting of two parallel MWNTs, with highly controlled CNT lengths with 40 nm accuracy and nanotube-to-nanotube separations of less than 10 µm.
Congestive Heart Failure: Systolic and Diastolic Function

There is increasing recognition that disorders of both left ventricular systolic and diastolic function can result in congestive heart failure. As such, consideration of both the filling and emptying characteristics of the left heart is needed to evaluate the hemodynamic abnormalities present in this syndrome. Considerations of the systolic (emptying) and diastolic (filling) pumping characteristics of the left heart also provides a conceptual basis to classify and understand the pathophysiology of congestive heart failure. In this context, systolic dysfunction can be defined as impaired emptying of the LV, apparent as a decreased (< 50%) effective ejection fraction (forward stroke volume divided by end-diastolic volume). Systolic dysfunction may result from impaired myocardial contractile function, increased left ventricular afterload, and/or structural abnormalities of the left heart. Diastolic dysfunction can be defined as a condition in which filling of the LV sufficient to produce an adequate cardiac output requires an elevated pulmonary venous pressure. Thus, diastolic dysfunction is clinically manifested as pulmonary congestion. Defined in this manner, the most common cause of diastolic dysfunction is systolic dysfunction. In fact, the most common symptom of patients with systolic dysfunction is dyspnea from the resulting diastolic dysfunction. Diastolic dysfunction in the setting of normal systolic function may be due to obstruction of left ventricular filling, impaired left ventricular distensibility, or extensive external compression of the LV. Treatment of diastolic dysfunction can be accomplished by relieving myocardial ischemia, improving systolic function, lowering arterial systolic pressure, and decreasing cardiac distention.
Triangles with vertices on lattice points

A triangle is called embeddable in Zn if it is similar to a triangle whose vertices have integer coordinates in Rn. It was already known that a triangle is embeddable in Z2 if and only if all its angles have rational tangents. We show that a triangle is embeddable in some Zn if and only if it is embeddable in Z5, and if and only if all its angles have tangents with rational squares. We reduce the problem of embeddability to a certain Diophantine equation. We give a complete characterization of the triangles embeddable in Zn for every n. In particular, there are triangles embeddable in Z5 but not Z4, and in Z3 but not Z2, but surprisingly, the same triangles are embeddable in Z3 as are embeddable in Z4. A triangle is embeddable in Z3 if and only if the tangents of its angles are all rational multiples of v4 for some integer k which is a sum of three squares. The proofs use only elementary number theory. The simplest question concerning embeddability is this: is the equilateral triangle embeddable in Z2? That is, are there lattice points in the plane forming the vertices of an equilateral triangle? As it turns out, there are not. Of course, the equilateral triangle is embeddable in Z3 , with vertices at the points one unit along each of the three. axes. This illustrates that more triangles may be embeddable if more dimensions are allowed. The general problem addressed in this paper is to characterize the triangles embeddable in Zn for each n. We give a complete solution of this problem, as described in the preceding abstract. The problem solved in this paper has a surprisingly long history, and is connected to the work of several other authors. These points are discussed in a separate section near the end of the paper. Dimension Two. The following proposition is included as an introduction to the subject. (In the proposition, infinity counts as a rational tangent.)