cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
Kinematics and Methods for Combined Quasi-static stance/reach planning in multi-limbed robots

This paper provides kinematic analysis and local motion planning methods for multi-limbed robots. In particular, we consider combined stance and reach tasks for robotic mechanisms whose limbs can be used either as legs or manip- ulator arms. An example of such a system is the RoboSimian robot participating in the DARPA Robotics Challenge (Figure 1). We develop relationships which model the key quasi- statics and kinematics of these mechanisms: the stance map, the stance Jacobian, and the reach Jacobian, as well as the stance constrained center-of-mass Jacobian. We also introduce characterizations of multi-limbed mechanism configurations in terms of the properties of these maps: local dexterity and limberness. This paper also introduces local planning methods which seek to balance the motion of legs, body, and arms of such mechanisms so as to realize manipulation goals while also maintaining awareness of stance stability issues. Examples with a simple planar model illustrate the methods.
Activation of NF-kappa B and immunoglobulin expression in response to platelet-activating factor in a human B cell line.

Abstract Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-KB) has been shown to be an important transcriptional regulatory protein in multiple cell types in response to a number of physiological signals. In lymphocytes it has been implicated in transcriptional regulation of the kappa light chain, MHC, IL-6, and IL-2 receptor genes, depending on the differentiation state of the cell. In the present study we demonstrate that platelet-activating factor (PAF), a phospholipid molecule, activates NF-KB and increases kappa light chain mRNA in a human B cell line. Treatment of Ramos cells with PAF (10-9 to 10 6M) increased RNA levels of the NF-KB p50 precursor, known as p105, in a dose-dependent manner, p105 RNA levels increased to a maximum observed at 8-10 hr and then diminished by 24 hr; this induction was not blocked by cycloheximide (CHX). PAF induced nuclear kappa B binding at similar concentrations, but more rapidly, attaining maximal levels within 15 min. CHX did not block this activity either. PAF treatment of Ramos cells also resulted in increased levels of RNA for kappa light chain. These results suggest that PAF activates NF-KB by at least two mechanisms in these cells, one at the level of post-translational protein activation and the other by increasing the level of RNA for NF-KB p105.
Lack of correlation between the magnitude of preservation injury and the incidence of acute rejection, need for OKT3, and conversion to FK506 in cyclosporine-treated primary liver allograft recipients.

In order to study further whether a relationship exists between the extent of ischemia-preservation-reperfusion injury (IPRI) and acute rejection (AR) events in liver allografts, we retrospectively reviewed 213 consecutive cyclosporine-treated patients who received their first liver allograft between 1/1/93 and 12/31/93. Of these, 178 fulfilled the study inclusion criteria. The extent of IPRI was assessed by the peak value of aspartate aminotransferase (ASTmax) observed within the first 72 hr posttransplant. For the purpose of univariate analysis, categorical classification of recipients was done based upon ASTmax as follows: group 1, ASTmax 2000 IU/L (n = 49). For multivariate analysis, stepwise Cox regression was performed with age, ASTmax, and UNOS status as covariates. At a median follow-up of 271 days there were no statistically significant differences between groups with respect to the incidence of a first episode of AR (47%, 55%, 51%, respectively, P = NS), the timing of AR (respective medians, 9, 10, and 10 days, P = NS), or the proportion of patients treated with OKT3 (9%, 20%, 12%, respectively, P = NS) or converted to FK506 (16%, 12%, 10%, P = NS). Cox regression confirmed the lack of an independent association between the extent of IPRI and any of these outcomes. We conclude that in UW-preserved, cyclosporine-treated primary liver allografts, no correlation exists between the extent of IPRI and the incidence, timing, severity, or refractoriness of clinically defined AR events.
Method of complex coordinates: Application to the stark effect in hydrogen

The method of complex coordinates as applied to calculation of resonance parameters for dilitation analytic operators is discussed, and numerical evidence is presented that although the Stark potential Fz is not dilatation analytic, many of the results of the theory seem to hold. In particular, Stark widths and shifts for the H atom ground state in weak and strong fields are calculated in spherical coordinates using only L/sup 2/ basis functions, giving results in excellent agreement with those of methods applying detailed boundary conditions in parabolic coordinates.
Diffuse pollution abatement--a key component in the integrated effort towards sustainable urban basins.

Water bodies are highly stressed by overdrafts of water for many purposes upstream and in the cities, and effluent domination and excessive point and diffuse pollution downstream. Pollution is also caused by the urban landscape which prefers impervious rather than porous surfaces; fast-conveyance infrastructure rather than “softer” approaches like ponds and vegetation; and stream channelization instead of natural stream courses, buffers and floodplains, and development in the floodplains. In future, the comprehensive and complex problems of urban pollution must be solved within the framework of the total hydrological cycle concept. This provides a new impetus to diffuse pollution management in urban areas. The best management practices that have been developed in the past could become key components of the new urban total hydrological cycle paradigm for solving the water shortage and pollution problems in an integrated manner, and making the urban systems hydrologically and ecologically sustainable. The paradigm will include landscape changes (less imperviousness, more green space used as buffers and groundwater recharge) as well application of the best management practices that provide water conservation, storage and reuse.
A low temperature synthesis for powder-form intermetallics and other compounds—II Selenides

Abstract The work previously reported by Kulifay has been extended to include selenides, of which nine have been prepared, including CuSe, βAg 2 Se, CdSe, PbSe, TlSe, HgSe, NiSe, Cu 2− x Se (where x ∼ 0·2) and CuAgSe. As was the case with intermetallics, antimonides, arsenides and tellurides, the selenide synthesis is quantitative, simple and rapid, and uses a temperature of only 100°C at atmospheric pressure. It consists of the reduction of mixed aqueous solutions containing the elements in the stoicheiometric ratio called for in the product, by addition to aqueous ammoniacal hydrazine solutions. Two copper selenides can be prepared by varying the elemental proportions.
Está listo (Are you ready)? Gender, race and land registration in the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve

Geographers and political ecologists are paying increased attention to the ways in which conservation policies disrupt indigenous customary tenure arrangements. However, much less attention is given to the particular ways protected area management shapes natural resource access for indigenous women. With this in mind, this article examines how a recently proposed state land project in Honduras, Catastro y Regularizacion, requires that Miskito residents individuate collective family lands in the interests of ‘sustainable development’ and ‘biodiversity protection’. In the debates that followed the project's announcement, Miskito women feared that such measures would erase their customary access to family lands. As the state's project seeks to re-order Reserve land, intra-Miskito struggles intensified among villagers. Such struggles are not only gendered but are shaped by longstanding processes of racialization in Honduras and the Mosquitia region. Drawing upon ethnographic research, I argue that Miskito wom...
The phosphorylation of tyrosine 332 is necessary for the caspase 3-dependent cleavage of PKCδ and the regulation of cell apoptosis☆

Protein kinase C delta (PKCdelta plays a major role in the regulation of cell apoptosis and survival. PKCdelta is cleaved by caspase 3 to generate a constitutively active catalytic domain that mediates both its apoptotic and anti-apoptotic effects. The caspase cleavage site of PKCdelta in the hinge region is flanked by the two tyrosine residues, Y311 and Y332. Here, we examined the role of the phosphorylation of tyrosines 311 and 332 in the cleavage and apoptotic function of PKCdelta using the apoptotic stimuli, TRAIL and cisplatin. Tyrosine 332 was constitutively phosphorylated in the A172 and HeLa cells and was further phosphorylated by TRAIL and cisplatin. This phosphorylation was inhibited by the Src inhibitors, PP2 and SU6656, and by silencing of Src. Treatment of the A172 and HeLa cells with TRAIL induced cleavage of the WT PKCdelta and of the PKCdeltaY311F mutant, whereas a lower level of cleavage was observed in the PKCdeltaY332F mutant. Similarly, a smaller degree of cleavage of the PKCdeltaY332 mutant was observed in LNZ308 cells treated with cisplatin. Mutation of Y332F affected the apoptotic function of PKCdelta; overexpression of the PKCdeltaY332 mutant increased the apoptotic effect of TRAIL, whereas it decreased the apoptotic effect of cisplatin. Inhibition of Src decreased the cleavage of PKCdelta and modified the apoptotic responses of the cells to TRAIL and cisplatin, similar to effect of the PKCdeltaY332F mutant. These results demonstrate that the phosphorylation of tyrosine 332 by Src modulates the cleavage of PKCdelta and the sensitivity of glioma cells to TRAIL and cisplatin.
Clean Air Corridors: A Geographic and

Meteorological factors, pollutant emissions, and geographic regions related to transport of low optical extinction coefficient air to Grand Canyon National Park were examined. Back trajectories were generated by two models, the Atmospheric Transport and Dispersion Model (ATAD) and an approach using the Nested Grid Model output for a Lagrangian particle transport model (NGM/ CAPITA). Meteorological information along the trajectories was analyzed for its relationship to visibility at the Grand Canyon. Case studies considered days with anomalously clean air from the southwest and dirty air from the northwest. Clean air was most frequently from the north and northwest, rarely from the south. Low emissions, high ventilation and washout by precipitation was associated with clean air. All clean days with transport from the Los Angeles area had upper-level low pressure over the region with high ventilation and usually abundant precipitation. The dirtiest days with transport from the northwest were affected by forest fires.
Highly anisotropic stability and folding kinetics of a single coiled coil protein under mechanical tension

Coiled coils are one of the most abundant protein structural motifs and widely mediate protein interactions and force transduction or sensation. They are thus model systems for protein engineering and folding studies, particularly the GCN4 coiled coil. Major single-molecule methods have also been applied to this protein and revealed its folding kinetics at various spatiotemporal scales. Nevertheless, the folding energy and kinetics of a single GCN4 coiled coil domain has not been well determined at a single-molecule level. Here we used high-resolution optical tweezers to characterize the folding and unfolding reactions of a single GCN4 coiled coil domain and their dependence on the pulling direction. In one axial and two transverse pulling directions, we observed reversible, two-state transitions of the coiled coil in real time. The transitions equilibrate at pulling forces ranging from 6 to 12 pN, showing different stabilities of the coiled coil in regard to pulling direction. Furthermore, the transition rates vary with both the magnitude and direction of the pulling force by greater than 1,000 folds, indicating a highly anisotropic and topology-dependent energy landscape for protein transitions under mechanical tension. We developed a new analytical theory to extract energy and kinetics of the protein transition at zero force. The derived folding energy does not depend on the pulling direction and is consistent with the measurement in bulk, which further confirms the applicability of the single-molecule manipulation approach for energy measurement. The highly anisotropic thermodynamics of proteins under tension should play important roles in their biological functions.
Coca‐Cola brand protection before World War II – it's the real thing!

Purpose – This paper aims to discuss the early brand protection efforts of Coca‐Cola.Design/methodology/approach – The paper examines the hundreds of trademark infringement challenges brought by Coca‐Cola in courts and before the US Patent and Trademark Office and develops a tripartite system of categorizing these challenges by primary legal issue.Findings – Coca‐Cola developed several innovations in brand identity protection including challenges to a wide variety of similar names, logos and packaging, the use of detectives in service settings and the use of consumer psychological evidence in legal proceedings. Ultimately, it protected it name against those rivals that closely imitated both words in its name or words similar to Coca or Coke. However, it was unable to obtain exclusive rights to the word cola which became the generic designation for such drinks.Practical implications – Even today, the scope of Coca‐Cola's brand protection efforts provide a useful model for modern brands. This work also pres...
Surface topography of the branchiuranArgulus appendiculosus Wilson, 1907 as revealed by scanning electron microscopy

The body surface of adultArgulus appendiculosus is characterized by a carapace which dorsally is devoid of surface ornamentation except for the presence of a series of grooves and sutures which are similarly arranged in all specimens. The ventral surface of the carapace is bounded laterally by spines and medially by unadorned respiratory areas. Sucking discs possess circumferential flanges with marginal papilae and supporting rods composed of two elements. Sexual dimorphism is particularly evident in the structure of the natatory lobes of the fourth swimming legs and in the presence of accessory copulatory structures on second, third and fourth swimming legs of males. A previously undescribed pocket on the coxa of the third swimming appendage of males may function together with the peg and socket apparatus in the clasping of males and females during copulation. Ventral surfaces of the thorax and maxillae are covered with posteriorly directed scales which have distal ends bearing comb-like teeth. Presumed sensory structures on the body surface are of at least two types: (1) recurved spinous projections which often arise from cuticular blebs, and (2) small circular pits containing papillae which do not project beyond the rim of the pit. ManyA. appendiculosus had attached peritrichous ciliates on the lateral and ventral body surfaces.
Religion and Ethnicity: Theoretical Connections

The religion literature in Sociology remains largely disconnected from the ethnicity and immigration literature despite enduring connections between religion and ethnicity. This review helps to close this gap. It shows how the dominant theories in each discipline follow a similar trajectory and examines how exploring the theoretical connections between religion and ethnicity can advance our understanding of each social phenomenon. In particular, it can illuminate why America remains so religious as well as why America’s religious congregations continue to be so divided along ethnic and racial lines.
Drosophila Spastin Regulates Synaptic Microtubule Networks and Is Required for Normal Motor Function

The most common form of human autosomal dominant hereditary spastic paraplegia (AD-HSP) is caused by mutations in the SPG4 (spastin) gene, which encodes an AAA ATPase closely related in sequence to the microtubule-severing protein Katanin. Patients with AD-HSP exhibit degeneration of the distal regions of the longest axons in the spinal cord. Loss-of-function mutations in the Drosophila spastin gene produce larval neuromuscular junction (NMJ) phenotypes. NMJ synaptic boutons in spastin mutants are more numerous and more clustered than in wild-type, and transmitter release is impaired. spastin-null adult flies have severe movement defects. They do not fly or jump, they climb poorly, and they have short lifespans. spastin hypomorphs have weaker behavioral phenotypes. Overexpression of Spastin erases the muscle microtubule network. This gain-of-function phenotype is consistent with the hypothesis that Spastin has microtubule-severing activity, and implies that spastin loss-of-function mutants should have an increased number of microtubules. Surprisingly, however, we observed the opposite phenotype: in spastin-null mutants, there are fewer microtubule bundles within the NMJ, especially in its distal boutons. The Drosophila NMJ is a glutamatergic synapse that resembles excitatory synapses in the mammalian spinal cord, so the reduction of organized presynaptic microtubules that we observe in spastin mutants may be relevant to an understanding of human Spastin's role in maintenance of axon terminals in the spinal cord.
Morphometric analysis of craniofacial growth in Cebus apella

The present study was undertaken to provide a quantitative description of craniofacial growth in Cebus apella in three dimensions. Landmarks from a cross-sectional sample of sexed and dentally aged crania were collected using a 3Space digitizer. Two methods of three-dimensional form analysis, euclidian distance matrix analysis (EDMA) and finite-element scaling analysis (FESA), were used to investigate growth changes in the cranium. Male and female growth was examined by comparing the youngest male mean form to all other age/sex specific mean forms. In addition, form differences between the sexes were studied by comparing male and female mean forms at each age. The cranium was divided into four regions for analysis: muzzle, upper face, neurocranium, and basicranium. Growth changes within each region were examined. In the muzzle and neurocranium, most growth occurs along the anteroposterior axis. Growth around pterion and the lower orbital rim is prominent within the upper face. The basicranium shows a surprisingly large amount of form change with growth. This form change is due to the mediolateral expansion of the basioccipital, and to the posterior migration and inferior rotation of basion. Males and females have similar growth patterns, but males tend to be larger than females in nearly all dimensions at every developmental age except the youngest. Evidence suggests that craniofacial sexual dimorphism is primarily due to males growing faster than females for approximately the same amount of time.
Stochastic estimation as a statistical tool for approximating turbulent conditional averages

In this paper, extensions to conventional stochastic estimation techniques are presented, whereby uncertainties in individual estimates may be deduced. Test applications to time series of velocity measurements in a turbulent boundary layer confirm the fidelity of the uncertainty estimation procedure and illustrate how the optimal choice of stochastic estimation model can be strongly dependent on the event upon which the average is conditioned. They also demonstrate how stochastic estimations may be refined to yield more accurate descriptions of particular coherent motions, and how they can reveal the existence of rare events, different in statistical character to their more frequent counterparts, which might otherwise be undetected by conventional stochastic estimation.
Secondary Amyloidosis as an Unusual Cause of Ureteral Obstruction

Localized amyloidosis of the urogenital tract is a rarely described cause of ureteral obstruction and renal failure. Most previously described cases involve primary amyloidosis. We report a case of unilateral ureteral obstruction caused by localized secondary amyloidosis, which to our knowledge has only been described once previously.1 CASE REPORT A 53-year-old female was incidentally found to have unilateral hydronephrosis and hydroureter on computerized tomography of the chest. Computerized pyelography demonstrated a left distal ureteral mass as well as hydronephrosis and hydroureter (fig. 1). The patient underwent ureteroscopy, biopsy and stenting. Biopsies revealed acute and chronic inflammation but no definitive diagnosis. Ureteral brushings and urine cytology were negative. Despite stenting, unilateral renal function did not improve, as the function of the affected side remained less than 10% on renal scintigraphy. Since no definitive diagnosis was made and the renal dysfunction persisted, laparoscopic nephroureterectomy was performed. Histopathological analysis of the ureteral mass showed secondary amyloidosis (fig. 2). Further testing demonstrated mild polyclonal gammopathy with a normal C-reactive protein level. Evaluation for systemic amyloidosis was negative, to include abdominal fat pad biopsy and urine protein electrophoresis. The patient was empirically started on colchicine and the polyclonal gammopathy resolved. She remains asymptomatic 2 years later with normal renal function.
Micromachined acoustic matching layers

Efficient coupling of acoustic energy between different media requires fabrication of materials with precisely controlled acoustic properties. Current materials are formed by suspending particles in an epoxy matrix. Last year, we proposed a technique for making such materials using silicon micromachining. This paper describes the fabrication procedure and acoustic measurements of these materials and their applications. The acoustic properties of the composite materials described in this paper depend on the volume fraction of silicon, and the material used for the other phase of the composite. We investigated two different fillers, epoxy resin and RTV. Silicon structures with graded volume fractions were fabricated to provide broader bandwidth matching.
The Effect of Time and of Vasoactive Drugs on Capillary Leakage Induced During Myocardial Contrast Echocardiography

Background: Premature ventricular contractions (PVC), capillary leakage, and petechial hemorrhage can occur during myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE). The effects occur as a result of the interaction of contrast agent microbubbles and the ultrasound, but the detailed etiology of the effects is not yet clear. This study tested the hypothesis that the capillary leakage results from a physiological response to injury, which might be protracted and modulated by vasoactive drugs. Methods: Hairless rats were anesthetized and transthoracically scanned with a diagnostic ultrasound system (GE Vingmed System V) at 1.7 MHz with 1:4 triggered frames at end systole. The scan head and rats were mounted in a 37 ◦ C water bath to assure free-field conditions and placement of the heart at a similar focal distance as humans. A tail vein was cannulated for injections of Optison contrast agent, vasoactive medications, and Evans Blue dye (EB). EB was injected as a marker of capillary leakage before or after scanning. Results: PVCs, petechia, and capillary leakage occurred during ultrasound exposure of microbubbles in myocardium, with no effects detected in shams. The influence of the vasoactive medications propranolol and isoproterenol on the effects did not support the hypothesis. Capillary leakage occurred during and postexposure, but diminished for EB injection 20 minutes after scanning with or without isoproterenol pretreatment. Conclusion: MCE induced PVCs, petechia, and capillary leakage, all of which ended immediately or within 20 minutes after the examination. Contrary to the hypothesis of a physiological mechanism, the capillary leakage appears to be primarily a mechanical effect rather than a physiological response. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 21, February 2004)
Effects of elemental sulfur during programmed pyrolysis of kerogen

Abstract The effects of elemental sulfur during programmed pyrolysis of Eocene Green River Shale and common rock matrix minerals were assessed experimentally. Mixtures of elemental sulfur and Green River Shale with calcium carbonate, silicon dioxide, calcium sulfate, and zinc sulfide were analyzed. With the weight fraction Green River Shale held at near constant values, the addition of elemental sulfur resulted in substantial decreases in Hydrogen Index and substantial increases in Oxygen Index. The effect is so significant that thermally immature Type I kerogen can yield a pyrolysis response typical of Type III kerogen. Moreover, elemental sulfur appears to influence estimations of thermal maturity during programmed pyrolysis. Only minor differences in pyrolysis response were noted for the different matrix compounds without elemental sulfur. This study suggests that programmed pyrolysis results on rocks containing unusually high contents of elemental sulfur should be interpreted with caution.
Liberalism and Religion: Against Congruence

I argue here against recent trends in liberal and feminist theory contending that the state should insist that religious groups internalize liberal justice and equality. Doing so dangerously ascribes too much power to the state, and threatens liberty and stability. I argue instead that the liberal state must balance different values. I begin by claiming that while Rawls worries that religious people want to impose their way of life on others, a more accurate concern is that of liberalism imposing its way of life on religious conservatives. I also contend that Rawls’s concern about stability leads him wrongly to think that there must be widespread agreement on the principles of justice, which leads to considerable intrusion in conservative religions. This widespread agreement is unattainable; a better route to stability is through extensive agreement on decision making procedures. Feminist arguments are less concerned with stability, but share with Rawls the idea that private values should be congruent with public ones. I argue that doing so leads to unacceptable intrusions on liberty. Religious groups can be internally non-liberal as long as there is pluralism within the society, exit from groups is assured, and their members all receive a decent education.
A ballistocardiographic and electrocardiographic study of 328 patients with coronary artery disease; Comparison with results from a similar study of apparently normal persons

Abstract 1. 1. One hundred thirty-seven cases of old myocardial infarction and one hundred ninety-one cases of angina pectoris were studied by both ballistocardiography and electrocardiography. Results were compared with those from a similar study of three hundred sixty-nine clinically normal subjects. 2. 2. Sixty-nine per cent of patients with old myocardial infarction had abnormal electrocardiograms and 72 per cent had abnormal ballistocardiograms. The incidence of abnormal electrocardiograms and ballistocardiograms was significantly higher in each age decade for the patients with old myocardial infarction than for the normal subjects. There was an increasing frequency of ballistic abnormality with age, ranging from 38 per cent in the fourth decade to 96 per cent in the seventh decade. 3. 3. Twenty-four per cent of patients with angina pectoris had abnormal electrocardiograms whereas 75 per cent of them had abnormal ballistocardiograms. The percentage of abnormal ballistocardiograms was significantly higher than that for abnormal electrocardiograms in the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth decades. There was an increasing frequency of ballistic abnormality with age, ranging from 45 per cent in the fourth decade to 100 per cent in the eighth decade. In a small group of patients with normal or borderline ballistocardiograms and electrocardiograms, the “two-step” exercise test produced ballistic abnormality in 60 per cent, and a positive electrocardiographic response in 30 per cent. 4. 4. Detailed quantitative analysis of the normal and borderline ballistocardiograms from normal subjects and from patients with coronary artery disease failed to reveal any important differences between the two clinical groups. 5. 5. In the age groups in which the incidence of ballistic abnormality was low for clinically normal subjects it was also low for patients with coronary artery disease, and in those age groups in which the incidence of ballistic abnormality was high for patients with coronary artery disease it was also high for clinically normal subjects. It is suggested that significance be attached to abnormal ballistocardiograms from subjects under the age of 50 and to normal ballistocardiograms from those over the age of 60. 6. 6. It is recommended that, for the present, caution be used in attributing clinical significance to abnormal ballistocardiograms from clinically normal persons and from patients whose symptoms and signs are not typical of coronary artery disease. 7. 7. The literature is reviewed with respect to the use of ballistocardiography in coronary artery disease.
The secretory immune system in the uterus of the pregnant rat: production of secretory component by uterine tissues

Abstract Secretory component (SC) was measure in amniotic fluid, fetal serum, and maternal serum and compared with SC production during in vitro culture of uterine tissue segments from pregnant rats. The concentrations of SC in amniotic fluid did not change between days 14 and 20 of pregnancy. Similarly, there was no change in maternal or fetal serum during pregnancy, although, the levels of SC in sera were consistently higher than those in amniotic fluid. When uterine segments were incubated in vitro, release of SC was greater in the absence of cycloheximide than in the presence of cycloheximide at all stages of pregnancy. In contrast to SC values in amniotic fluid, however, SC production by uterine tissue changed markedly during pregnancy. SC levels were low during early pregnancy (day 7 post coitus) and increased to levels found in non-pregnant diestrous rats just prior to parturition (day 20). The findings suggest that the endocrine balance during pregnancy may play a central role in regulation of the uterine immune system. The pattern of SC release may reflect a need both to ensure protection of the fetus from the IgA immune system in early pregnancy and to prevent maternal infection during parturition by reactivation of this system.
Sophisticated Voting in Congress: A Reconsideration

A recent development in the theory of voting is the possibility that agendas over which legislators may engage in sophisticated voting can place legislators in awkward situations. Consequently, some legislators may choose not to vote sophisticatedly. Roll-call votes on the school construction bill of 1956 are cited as support for this "position-taking" hypothesis (Denzau, Riker, and Shepsle 1985). This article questions the relevance of classical sophisticated voting theory in general and the position-taking extension in particular. First, the body of rules and precedents in the U.S. Congress make it easy to avoid opportunities for sophisticated voting. Second, when rare cases arise in which agendas do permit identifiable sophisticated voting, uncertainty makes the application of perfect-information theory inappropriate. Reconsideration of some heretofore overlooked procedural facts surrounding the school aid bill, as well as its distributive content, yields an alternative approach: characterization of th...
How do detemir and glargine compare when added to oral agents in insulin-naïve patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus?

In this Practice Point commentary, I describe the findings and limitations of a 52-week, open-label, noninferiority, head-to-head comparison study of the basal insulin analogs detemir and glargine. Rosenstock et al. enrolled 582 insulin-naive individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus inadequately controlled with oral antidiabetic agents. Participants were randomly allocated to receive either detemir or glargine, titrated to a target fasting plasma glucose level <or=6 mmol/l in the absence of hypoglycemia. Detemir was administered once-daily or (if needed) twice-daily to control predinner blood glucose levels, whereas glargine was administered only once-daily. Comparable improvements in glycemic control were observed in the two treatment groups. By contrast, less weight gain occurred with detemir than with glargine. Nonetheless, higher levels of detemir than glargine were required to achieve these beneficial effects and only 45% of patients in the detemir group remained on the once-daily dosing schedule. The implications of these observations for clinical practice are discussed.
Tropical forest biomass estimation from truncated stand tables.

Abstract Total aboveground forest biomass may be estimated through a variety of techniques based on commercial inventory stand and stock tables. Stand and stock tables from tropical countries commonly omit trees below a certain commercial limit, often ⩾ 35ccm. Biomass estimates made from such tables will fail to include from 25–45% of the total stand biomass. Using stand tables generated for large forested areas, we describe several methods of estimating the numbers of stems in one or two missing small-diameter classes (truncated stand tables) based on the numbers of stems in the larger size classes. We show that an exponential model reasonably approximates diameter distributions among most diameter classes in various types of tropical moist forest. The most accurate method of estimating the number of stems in smaller (missing) diameter classes used the ratio of the numbers of stems in the two smallest diameter classes. The error of estimation of total stand biomass using this approach (10–12%) was always less than the error incurred by omitting the missing classes (25–45%).
Improved estimates for the approximation numbers of Hardy-type operators

Consider the Hardy-type integral operator T : Lp(a,b) → Lp(a,b), -∞ ≤ a < b ≤ ∞, which is defined by (Tf)(x) = v(x) ∫ax u(t)f(t)dt.In the papers by Edmunds et al. (J. London Math. Soc. (2) 37 (1988) 471) and Evans et al. (Studia Math. 130 (2) (1998) 171) upper and lower estimates and asymptotic results were obtained for the approximation numbers an(T) of T. In case p = 2 for "nice" u and v these results were improved in Edmunds et al. (J. Anal. Math. 85 (2001) 225). In this paper, we extend these results for 1 < p < ∞ by using a new technique. We will show that under suitable conditions on u and v, lim supn → ∞ n1/2 |λp-1/p ∫ab |u(t)v(t)|dt - nan(T)| ≤ c(||u'||p'/(p'+1) + ||v'||p/(p+1))(||u||p' + ||v||p) + 3αp||uv||1, where ||w||p = (∫ab |w(t)|p dt)1/p and λp is the first eigenvalue of the p-Laplacian eigenvalue problem on (0, 1).
Proton Transfer Reactions in Native and Deionized Bacteriorhodopsin upon Delipidation and Monomerization

We have investigated the role of the native lipids on bacteriorhodopsin (bR) proton transfer and their connection with the cation-binding role. We observe that both the efficiency of M formation and the kinetics of M rise and decay depend on the lipids and lattice but, as the lipids are removed, the cation binding is a much less important factor for the proton pumping function. Upon 75% delipidation using 3-[(cholamidopropyl)dimethylammonio]-propanesulfonate (CHAPS), the M formation and decay kinetics are much slower than the native, and the efficiency of M formation is ∼30%–40% that of the native. Upon monomerization of bR by Trition X-100, the efficiency of M recovers close to that of the native (depending on pH), M formation is ∼10 times faster, and M decay kinetics are comparable to native at pH 7. The same results on the M intermediate are observed if deionized blue bR (deI bbR) is treated with these detergents (with or without pH buffers present), even though deionized blue bR containing all the lipids has no photocycle. This suggests that the cation(s) has a role in native bR that is different than in delipidated or monomerized bR, even so far as to suggest that the cation(s) becomes unimportant to the function as the lipids are removed.
Parameters of the subthreshold fission structure in $sup 240$Pu

The neutron total cross section of $^{242}\mathrm{Pu}$ has been measured from 600 eV to 81 keV using the new Lawrence Livermore Laboratory Linac. Parameters were obtained for those resonances below 4 keV with significant fission strengths. These parameters were used to study the fission widths of the intermediate structure in $^{242}\mathrm{Pu}$+$n$ and the coupling matrix elements between the levels in the primary and intermediate wells in the double-humped fission potential barrier. The results show that the couplings in $^{242}\mathrm{Pu}$+$n$ is very weak; the magnitude of the average coupling matrix element is less than 0.5 the level spacing in the primary well. The distribution of the fission widths of the levels in the primary well about their expected values is found to be consistent with a Porter-Thomas distribution. However, the distribution of the square of the coupling matrix element appears to require more than one degree of freedom, apparently implying two independent and equally accessible routes across the inner barrier to the deformed configuration. The Wigner distribution is shown to adequately describe the spacings between levels in the intermediate well. These measurements, taken together with Lynn's theory, suggest that fission from the 2741-eV resonance is primarily through the isomeric state. If verified experimentally, this would mean about a ${10}^{4}$ increase in probability for isomeric fission compared to that induced by other reactions. Our results indicate comparable inner and outer barrier heights for the double-humped fission barrier in the compound system $^{245}\mathrm{Pu}$.
Socio-cultural implications of changing organizational technologies in the provision of care

Technology refers to inputs (machines, bureaucratic procedures, management strategies) organized to achieve specified outcomes. Such inputs and how they are used arise from socio-cultural conditions and in turn influence social behavior and values. Advances in medical technology are due to the high value populations place on health, emerging developments in science (also a cultural product). and from the opportunities and incentives the society gives to varying stakeholders. In the United States for example, the development and uses of medical technology are shaped by faith in marketplace competition, technological progress, activism, choice and consumerism. This constellation of values has resulted in very rapid growth and dissemination of hardware and related procedures whose costs pose significant financial dilemmas. In response, a range of management technologies have been developed to restrain the excesses of intervention but, because they are counter to many prevailing values and interests, they have led to much tension and a social backlash. Resolving these rationing tensions--which are rarely acknowledged as such--is a major challenge in American medical care and in much of the world. In the context of American social values, once new preventive or treatment technologies are introduced, they take patients on treatment trajectories that are difficult to control and which result in many being labeled with diagnoses they do not have and receiving interventions they do not need. Major efforts are under way to increase the sophistication of consumers of health care in a manner consistent with evidence-based medicine but these face significant barriers. Underlying what at first appears as simply technical barriers are the particular social and cultural influences on how people acquire and use information, the sources they trust and distrust, and the types of information they find credible and relevant to their situations. In short, the competition between new preventive and treatment technologies and managed care technologies is at its heart a culture war.
Effects of abdominal left ventricular assist device (ALVAD) on myocardial contractility during acute coronary occlusion

Abstract Experiments were designed to investigate the effects of ALVAD pumping on myocardial contractility and performance during acute coronary occlusion. Calculation of local changes in contractile function provided a method of quantitating these effects. The Maxwell-Hill two-component model of muscular contraction was utilized for the calculation of the Vce. Directly measured rate of lengthening of the series elastic component and the velocity of muscle shortening were used for these calculations. During periods of induced myocardial ischemia, ALVAD assistance decreased peak wall tension from a mean of 179 ± 5.8 to 36 ± 4.1 gm/cm2 (P The results of the current study suggest that mechanical left ventricular assistance increases the oxygen supply: demand ratio in acutely ischemic myocardium by reducing the oxygen demands of tension development. This reduction in ventricular wall tension and oxygen demand allows the depressed contractile function of the ischemic segment to increase to normal control levels.
Myelotoxicity and macrophage alteration in mice exposed to ochratoxin A

Six- to seven-week-old female B6C3F1 mice were administered a total of 0, 20, 40, or 80 mg/kg of ochratoxin A (OCT A) ip on alternate days over an 8-day period. Twenty-four hours following the final dose, histopathology, bone marrow, and macrophage parameters were assayed. There was a dramatic dose related decrease in thymic mass with the mean thymus weight of the high dose animals being only 33% of controls. Histologic evidence of nephrotoxicity was minimal and restricted to the inner cortex. Myelotoxicity was present as evidenced by bone marrow hypocellularity, decreased marrow pluripotent stem cells (CFU-S), granulocyte-macrophage progenitors (CFU-GMs), and decreased 59Fe uptake in marrows and spleens of exposed mice. Peritoneal macrophages from sc as well as ip injected mice demonstrated increased phagocytic capacities and increased capacity to inhibit tumor cell growth. These alterations in bone marrow cells and macrophages suggest myelotoxicity is an additional potential hazard of OCT A exposure.
Methods for evaluation of transportation projects in the USA

Abstract “Projects”, as the term is used here, are capital investments—from resurfacing streets to multi-billion dollar construction—that create transportation infrastructure. “Methods” are primarily benefit–cost analysis, although other frameworks have been, and still remain, in use. Most projects are constructed by public agencies and authorities, primarily at the state and local level, but the federal government is the dominant source of evaluation guidance because most transportation projects use some share of federal funds. Benefit–cost analysis (BCA or BC) is a decision framework for government agencies to use in considering the desirability of taking alternative actions, whether investment, operations, or regulation. This survey describes the use of BCA by US transportation agencies, comparing theory, published guidance, and actual practice.
Efficacy of HfN as sintering aid in the manufacture of ultrahigh-temperature metal diborides-matrix ceramics

HfB2 and (ZrB2 + HfB2)-based ceramics containing 19.5 vol% SiC particulate were developed from commercially available powders by hot-pressing. With the assistance of 3 vol% HfN as sintering aid, after hot-pressing at 1900 °C and 50 MPa of applied pressure, full density in both the composites was successfully achieved. The materials revealed a homogeneous microstructure, characterized by faceted diboride grains (2 μm average size) and SiC particles regularly dispersed. Limited levels of secondary phases were found. The thermomechanical properties of the composites were promising: about 22 GPa microhardness and 500 GPa Young’s modulus for both. The HfB2-SiC composite showed values of strength of 650 ± 50 and 465 ± 40 MPa at 25 and 1500 °C, respectively. Likewise, the (ZrB2-HfB2)-SiC composite exhibited values of strength of 765 ± 20 and 250 ± 45 MPa at 25 and 1500 °C, respectively. The excellent response at high temperature in air was attributed to the refractoriness of the phases constituting the composites and to the resistance to oxidation enhanced by the presence of the SiC particulate.
Expanding the Targets Available to Therapeutic Antibodies via Novel Disease-specific Markers

The development of immunotherapies offers significant promise for clinical applications in cancer and infectious diseases. Here the authors describe a novel, integrated approach to immunotherapy that combines novel technologies to discover and target disease-specific peptide/HLA class I complexes. This unique class of markers makes the entire proteome accessible to antibody reagents and offers unsurpassed specificity for targeting cancerous and infected cells. Arm one of the three-armed approach uses an innovative technology for the efficient, direct discovery of new peptide/HLA class I markers. Arm two applies a powerful and inventive strategy to generate T-cell receptor mimics (TCRms), which are antibodies with exquisite binding specificity for peptide/HLA class I markers, and uses TCRms to validate the specific expression of markers on cancerous and infected cells. The third arm uses TCRms to target and kill diseased cells with high sensitivity and specificity. In summary, the combination of two pionee...
A new, highly sensitive and specific assay for chymotrypsin.

Abstract 1. 1. A simple, highly sensitive, specific fluorometric method for the determination of chymotrypsin is described. 2. 2. The new substrate utilized in this assay, N -glutaryl-glycyl-glycyl-L-phenylalanine β-naphthylamide (GGPNA), is readily soluble in water, stable and highly specific for chymotrypsin. It is not degraded by a large excess of carboxypeptidase B, elastase, thrombin or plasmin and is virtually resistant to trypsin. 3. 3. GGPNA is extremely sensitive to the action of chymotrypsin and permits detection of enzyme concentrations as low as 1 ng/ml. Linearity between enzyme concentration and fluorescence produced is maintained up to at least 3000 ng/ml. 4. 4. α 2 -Macroglobulin-bound chymotrypsin hydrolyzes GGPNA at a rate about 2 3 of that exhibited by the free enzyme. 5. 5. Bile pigments in amounts normally found in duodenal juice or traces of blood do not interfere with the assay. 6. 6. GGPNA which releases β-naphthylamine upon hydrolysis is suitable also for colorimetric and histological determination of chymotrypsin.