cssi/SciSciGPT-SciSciNet huggingface dataset:
A multiple charging correction algorithm for scanning electrical mobility spectrometer data

Abstract Accuracy of particle size distribution measurements from scanning electrical mobility spectrometers (SEMS) is critically dependent on the quality of SEMS data inversion. A critical element of SEMS data inversion is the consideration of the charged particle fraction in the sample flow. In particular, when larger, multiply-charged particles are present in the measured aerosol, significant errors in the calculation of size distributions are possible if their contribution is not correctly accounted for. While ignoring the contribution of multiply charged particles may be acceptable when the particles are mostly in the ultrafine size range, a substantial error is possible when a significant fraction of particles are larger than 100 nm. Accurate calculation of size distributions from SEMS data is possible when an inertial impactor is used to eliminate the contribution of multiply-charged particles larger than a cut-size and an iterative multiple-charge correction (MCC) algorithm is used during the data inversion process. The effectiveness of this approach is, however, strongly dependent on the relationship between the aerodynamic and the electrical mobility diameters of the particles. Here, we demonstrate the limitations of the existing inversion algorithms and propose an alternative MCC algorithm for size distribution calculation from non-ideal SEMS data. In the proposed approach, the zeroth order singly charged particle size distribution is fit using a Gumbel distribution function, and the resultant fit is used to correct for the multiply-charged contribution to the SEMS data. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is tested for a range of particle size distribution scenarios and validated with experimental data.
Characterization of Endogenous Ethanol in the Mammal.

Ethanol has been isolated from the tissues of several animal species in amounts ranging from 23 to 145 µmole/100 gm of tissue. Intestinal bacterial flora appear to be excluded as a source of this ethanol. Radioactivity from pyruvate-2-C14 appeared in ethanol after incubation with liver slices; this finding indicates an endogenous synthesis.
Gravitation toward Walls among Human Subjects.

In two studies, participants in a classroom corridor who walked near the wall (“gravitators”) were contrasted with those who walked near the center (“nongravitators”). Gravitators were lower than nongravitators on autonomy and defendence and appeared to be less responsive to other persons. Gravitation is an innate behavior among some animals; among human beings there are marked individual differences. Some social encounters may involve gravitation toward the other person as an object.
ESTERIFICATION OF CHOLESTEROL IN RAT LIVER MICROSOMES.

Washed rat liver microsomes esterify cholesterol in the presence of added ATP and CoA; net synthesis of cholesterol esters was demonstrated. The optimum pH of the reaction was between 6.8 and 7.2; the effects of time and concentration of substrate were investigated. The composition of the C 14 -cholesterol esters synthesized by rat liver microsomes with added ATP and CoA was similar to that present in the microsomes before incubation and consisted predominantly of saturated and monounsaturated esters. A series of CoA esters (palmityl-CoA, oleyl-CoA, linoleyl-CoA, and arachidonyl-CoA) were tested for their effect on the esterification reaction. All of these CoA esters gave much lower levels of esterification than added ATP and CoA. The addition of fatty acid CoA derivatives, fatty acids, or fatty acid-albumin complexes to systems with ATP and CoA inhibited cholesterol esterification. This inhibition was not neutralized by the addition of fatty acid-poor serum albumin. The inhibition by fatty acid CoA esters could not be adequately explained in terms of free fatty acid liberated from the CoA esters by a deacylase in the microsomes. The data suggest that the major pathway for cholesterol esterification in liver microsomes does not involve a simple condensation between cholesterol and fatty acid CoA esters.
Molecular analysis of genes encoding phenazine biosynthesis in the biological control bacterium Pseudomonas aureofaciens 30–84

The DNA sequence of five contiguous open reading frames encoding enzymes for phenazine biosynthesis in the biological control bacterium Pseudomonas aureofaciens 30–84 was determined. These open reading frames were named phzF, phzA, phzB, phzC and phzD. Protein PhzF is similar to 3-deoxy-D-arabino-heptulosonate-7-phosphate synthases of solanaceous plants. PhzA is similar to 2,3-dihydro-2,3-dihydroxybenzoate synthase (EntB) of Escherichia coli. PhzB shares similarity with both subunits of anthranilate synthase and the phzB open reading frame complemented an E. coli trpE mutant deficient in anthranilate synthase activity. Although phzC shares little similarity to known genes, its product is responsible for the conversion of phenazine-1-carboxylic acid to 2-hydroxy-phenazine-1-carboxylic acid. PhzD is similar to pyridoxamine phosphate oxidases. These results indicate that phenazine biosynthesis in P. aureofaciens shares similarities with the shikimic acid, enterochelin, and tryptophan biosynthetic pathways.
The logarithmic convexity of the washout function in tracer kinetics

Abstract The washout function for an open stationary compartmental system is shown to be logarithmically convex for a large class of systems, including the passive system. Examples are presented of compartmental washout curves exhibiting regions of logarithmic concavity.
Can vaccination for common respiratory viruses decrease the incidence of venous thromboembolism

Can vaccination for common respiratory viruses decrease the incidence of venous thromboembolism? -
RNA silencing suppressor p21 of Beet yellows virus forms an RNA binding octameric ring structure.

Summary Many plant viruses encode proteins that suppress the antiviral RNA silencing response mounted by the host. The suppressors p19 from tombusvirus and p21 from Beet yellows virus appear to block silencing by directly binding siRNA, a critical mediator in the process. Here, we report the crystal structure of p21, which reveals an octameric ring architecture with a large central cavity of ∼90 A diameter. The all α-helical p21 monomer consists of N- and C-terminal domains that associate with their neighboring counterparts through symmetric head-to-head and tail-to-tail interactions. A putative RNA binding surface is identified in the conserved, positive-charged inner surface of the ring. In contrast to the specific p19-siRNA duplex interaction, p21 is a general nucleic acid binding protein, interacting with 21 nt or longer single- and double-stranded RNAs in vitro. This study reveals an RNA binding structure adopted by the p21 silencing suppressor.
Thrombocytosis and coronary occlusion.

The differential diagnosis for ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction in young patients without traditional risk factors for coronary artery disease often includes coronary artery vasospasm, dissection, and pericarditis. However, in the setting of focal, sustained arterial closure, one must
Variations of polar cap index in response to solar wind changes and magnetospheric substorms

[1] The polar cap (PC) index is used to measure the geomagnetic activity over the polar caps. Changes in the solar wind are able to cause disturbances in the magnetospheric-ionospheric currents, which in turn cause variations in the PC index. In order to understand how different processes in the solar wind and magnetosphere influence the PC index, it is necessary to separate the effects of solar wind pressure impulses, interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) reorientations, and magnetospheric substorms. We study the variations of the PC index under different solar wind conditions and during substorms and present case analyses and statistical results. The main conclusions are as follows. A solar wind pressure impulse alone, without IMF southward turning or substorm, is to cause a negative spike of ∼1 in the PC index within a time interval of 2–6 min and a subsequent increase to a positive value of ∼1 within 30 min. The PC index enhances significantly after the IMF turns southward, and the increase of the PC index is 3–5 in most cases and can be as large as 8–9. When a solar wind pressure impulse occurs with a simultaneous southward turning of the IMF, the large increase of the PC index is mainly a response to the southward IMF but not to the solar wind pressure impulse. Magnetospheric substorms have significant effects on the PC index. The response of the PC index to substorms is an increase of 2–4 in most cases and can reach 6 or larger. The effects of IMF southward turnings and substorms on the PC index are much stronger than that of solar wind pressure impulses. On average, the increases of the PC index caused by solar wind pressure impulses, substorm onsets, and IMF southward turnings are 0.8, 3.2, and 3.6, respectively.
Ticking Bombs and Interrogations

Torture is like slavery (and unlike murder and genocide) in that it is not inconceivable that torture might be justifiable. But the circumstances that would make it tolerable are unrealistic in philosophically interesting ways. It is unrealistic to think we can predict when torture will be effective and containable; unwarranted to suppose that humane alternatives are impossible; disastrous to remove motivations to create alternatives; unacceptable to be satisfied with available evidence regarding suspects’ identity, knowledge of critical detail, ability to recall it, or reasons for not providing it. Most importantly, the costs of even successful interrogational torture would negate the gains sought. Or so this essay argues.
Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) of the protozoan parasite Eimeria influences the components of the immune system of its host, the chicken

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a soluble factor produced by sensitized T lymphocytes that inhibits the random migration of macrophages. Homologues of MIF from invertebrates have been identified, making it an interesting molecule from a functional perspective. In the present study, the localization of a parasite MIF protein as well as its effect on the host was characterized. Western blot analysis shows that Eimeria MIF (EMIF) is found during all parasite developmental stages tested. Transmission electron microscopy shows that MIF is distributed throughout cytosol and nucleus of Eimeria acervulina merozoites. Immunohistochemical analysis suggests that EMIF may be released into the surrounding tissues as early as 24 h after infection, while later during oocyst formation, MIF expression is localized to areas immediately surrounding the oocysts, as well as in wall-forming bodies. The chemotaxis assay revealed an inhibitory function of EMIF on chicken monocyte migration. Quantitative real-time PCR was performed to examine the effect of EMIF on host immune system by measuring the transcripts of inflammatory mediators. An ex vivo stimulation study showed that E. acervulina MIF (EaMIF) enhanced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Furthermore, sequential treatment of adherent peripheral blood mononuclear cells with EaMIF, chicken MIF, and LPS in 2-h intervals led to the highest levels of interleukin (IL)-1B, chemokine CCLi3, IL-18, and interferon-gamma mRNA expression. This study shows that parasite MIF is widely expressed and may have potential effects on the immune system of the host.
Long-term functional and quality of life outcomes of patients after repair of large perianal skin defects for Paget's and Bowen's disease.

The assessment of long- term functional and quality of life outcomes of these patients following repair of large defects after surgical excision has not been reported. Between 1992 and 2004, at two institutions, 18 patients underwent repair of a perianal defect for Paget’s disease (n = 8) or Bowen’s disease (n = 10) and were alive with intestinal continuity at last follow-up. Patients were mailed the fecal incontinence quality of life scale (FIQL) and the SF-36. Fourteen patients (78%) responded. Median follow-up for responders was 5 years. Mean age was 65 years with 12 females. Subcutaneous skin flaps (11) and split-thickness skin grafts (three) were used to repair the perianal defects, which were circumferential in 11 patients (79%). Nine patients reported incontinence and completed the FIQL. The FIQL scores of patients reporting incontinence were lower for lifestyle, coping/behavior, and embarrassment but not significantly different for depression compared to patients without incontinence. SF-36 scores of the patients were not significantly different from the normative population. Functional results after repair of large perianal defects are acceptable and overall quality of life (QOL) is similar to the normative population although a large proportion of patients have some form of incontinence that impacts certain aspects of their QOL.
Photoreduction of two redox forms of cytochrome 559 in chloroplasts

Two redox forms of cytochrome 559 are present in spinach chloroplast preparations. One form (termed the D-form) cannot be reduced by ascorbate but can be reduced either by dithionite or by photosystem II light. The other form (termed the A-form) is readily reduced by ascorbate and can be either photo-oxidized or photoreduced depending on the experimental conditions. Photoreduction of the low potential form of the cytochrome is not inhibited by 3-(4-chlorophenyl)-1,1-dimethylurea (CMU), but postillumination oxidation rates of the chromophore are greatly accelerated in the presence of this inhibitor. The redox states of the two forms of the cytochrome are not affected by uncoupling of the phenazine methosulfate (PMS+)-mediated phosphorylation in the particles. Cytochrome c, when added to digitonin particles during their preparation, was partly bound to the chloroplast particles in a form similar to the cytochrome 559 D-form, suggesting that the observed redox forms of the cytochromes are a function of their localization in the chloroplast, rather than of their chemical structure. When digitonin particles were prepared from swollen chloroplasts, particles could be obtained which possess high rates of PMS+-mediated phosphorylation although cytochromes b563 and f were not detectable.
The retinoblastoma tumor suppressor and stem cell biology

Stem cells play a critical role during embryonic development and in the maintenance of homeostasis in adult individuals. A better understanding of stem cell biology, including embryonic and adult stem cells, will allow the scientific community to better comprehend a number of pathologies and possibly design novel approaches to treat patients with a variety of diseases. The retinoblastoma tumor suppressor RB controls the proliferation, differentiation, and survival of cells, and accumulating evidence points to a central role for RB activity in the biology of stem and progenitor cells. In some contexts, loss of RB function in stem or progenitor cells is a key event in the initiation of cancer and determines the subtype of cancer arising from these pluripotent cells by altering their fate. In other cases, RB inactivation is often not sufficient to initiate cancer but may still lead to some stem cell expansion, raising the possibility that strategies aimed at transiently inactivating RB might provide a novel way to expand functional stem cell populations. Future experiments dedicated to better understanding how RB and the RB pathway control a stem cell's decisions to divide, self-renew, or give rise to differentiated progeny may eventually increase our capacity to control these decisions to enhance regeneration or help prevent cancer development.
Cytogenetics of modern sugar canes

Modern sugar cane varieties are derived from interspecific crosses involving as many as four species. Because a chromosome increase accompanies certain crosses and backcrosses, modern varieties have very high aneuploid chromosome numbers and complicated genetics. Despite this complexity, the chromosome behavior of some modern varieties approaches that of allopolyploids. In achieving homozygosity, therefore, such varieties should respond to inbreeding almost like diploids. The meiotic chromosome behavior of F1 hybrids and modern varieties indicates little or no genetic exchange between chromosomes ofSaccharum officinarum andS. spontaneum. Irradiation may break linkages between desirable and undesirableS. spontaneum genes not ordinarily broken by crossing-over between the chromosomes of the two species. The quick success of nobilizingS. spontaneum (recurrently back-crossing to “noble canes”) depends on a peculiar increase of the chromosomes ofS. officinarum. Experience with nobilizingS. spontaneum should not make breeders impatient when they turn to interspecific crosses unaccompanied by chromosome increases.
Edge excitations of the ν= spin-singlet quantum Hall state

The spectrum of edge excitations is derived for the spin unpolarized \ensuremath{\nu}=2 and \ensuremath{\nu}=2/3 fractional quantum Hall effect (FQHE). Numerical diagonalization of a system of six electrons on a disk confirms that the edge \ensuremath{\nu}=2/3 spin-singlet FQHE state consists of oppositely directed spin and charge branches on the same physical edge. The highly correlated \ensuremath{\nu}=2/3 singlet edge is shown to have the same spin branch as the \ensuremath{\nu}=2 singlet edge, providing evidence that the same SU(2${)}_{\mathrm{k}\mathrm{=}1}$ Kac-Moody algebra describes all unmixed spin branches. The spin and charge branches of the singlet state at \ensuremath{\nu}=2/3 are less coupled than the two branches of the spin polarized state at the same filling factor, suggesting that the conductance along an edge may increase sharply across the polarized unpolarized transition.
Diverse glandular pathologies coexist with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion in cyto-histological review of atypical glandular cells on ThinPrep specimens.

OBJECTIVE: To identify in cytology, high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions with endocervical glandular extension in cases previously diagnosed as atypical glandular cells (AGC), analyse possible reasons for the diagnostic pitfall and document the frequency of glandular pathology coexisting with high-grade cervical intraepithelial lesion in histology. METHODS: Thirty-nine ThinPrep cervical smear (Pap) tests reported as AGC of undetermined significance and showing high-grade lesions on histology [cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2 or 3, endometrial or extrauterine adenocarcinoma] were reviewed retrospectively to identify the cases of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion with endocervical glandular extension, using the Bethesda 2001 system. Cyto-histological correlation was performed. RESULTS: A high frequency of diverse glandular pathologies coexisted with high-grade cervical intraepithelial lesions on histology. This included endocervical glandular extension in 63%, benign glandular pathology in 33% and pre-neoplastic or malignant glandular pathology (endocervical glandular dysplasia, adenocarcinoma in situ and metastatic breast carcinoma) in 17% cases. On cytology, the sensitivity was 40%, specificity was 80% and positive predictive value was 86% for endocervical gland extension in high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions. CONCLUSIONS: Special efforts to recognize endocervical glandular extension in high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions and glandular neoplasia coexisting with squamous intraepithelial lesions from the heterogeneous category of AGC can contribute to increasing the diagnostic accuracy. The identification of endocervical glandular extension on cervical cytology would alert the gynaecologist to perform a thorough assessment of the endocervix during colposcopy. This could also help to decide on the need to perform deeper conization rather than loop electrosurgical excision procedure to ensure negative margins when colposcopic biopsy shows CIN 2 or 3.
Carolinoside: a phytosteroidal glycoside from Solanum carolinense.

Abstract The glycoside of a new class of phytosteroids has been isolated from Solanum carolinense . The steroidal aglycone (carolinone) is alkylated at C-3 and is identified as C-[(2,4,5-trideoxy-3-keto-4,5-dehydro)-pentulopyranosyl]-(5 → 3)-)-(13,14- seco -l4β,17α-dihydroxy) estrogen. The hydrolytic labile glycosyl moiety is identified as O (β- d -glucopyranosyl) (1 → 1)-[ l -(2,6-dideoxy-3-C-methyl)-arabinopyranose]. The linkage of this disaccharide in the steroidal glycoside (carolinoside) is shown to be O -(α-pentulopyranosyl)-(1 → 4)- O -(α- l -arabinopyranosyl)-(1 → 1)- d -glucopyranose. Carolinoside occurs at concentrations of 10 −7 -10 −6 M in leaf tissue and was shown to be the host plant specific feeding induction factor for Manduca sexta .
Balance Improvements in Independent-Living Elderly Adults Following a 12-Week Structured Exercise Program

The purpose of this study was to validate a comprehensive, functionally oriented exercise program to document any improvement in activity levels and functional capacity (especially balance) in independent-living older adults. Data were collected for 12 weeks on 31 subjects (mean age 84.76 [±4.50]) and 16 controls (mean age 86 [±7.02]). The Berg Balance score in the subjects demonstrated a statistically significant improvement between 0 and 12 weeks (p = 0.003). The controls showed no significant differences in any phase of the program. Perception of balance also improved significantly for the subjects (X 2 = 24.53) using the Activities-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale.
A prospective study of the clinical impact of a multidisciplinary head and neck tumor board

Abstract Objective There have been no studies undertaken on the effect of the multidisciplinary head and neck tumor board on treatment planning. The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of the multidisciplinary tumor board in altering diagnosis, stage, and treatment plan in patients with head and neck tumors. Study Design Case series with planned data collection. Setting Comprehensive cancer center and tertiary academic hospital. Subjects and Methods A prospective study of the discussions concerning 120 consecutive patients presented at a multidisciplinary head and neck tumor board was performed. As each patient was presented, a record was made of the “pre-conference” diagnosis, stage, and treatment plan. After case discussion, the “post-conference” diagnosis, stage, and treatment plan were recorded. Results are compared between malignant and benign tumor cohorts. Results The study population comprised 120 patients with new presentations of head and neck tumors: 84 malignancies and 36 benign tumors. Approximately 27 percent of patients had some change in tumor diagnosis, stage, or treatment plan. Change in treatment was significantly more common in cases of malignancy, occurring in 24 percent of patients versus six percent of benign tumors (P = 0.0199). Changes in treatment were also noted to be largely escalations in management (P = 0.0084), adding multi-modality care. Conclusion A multidisciplinary tumor board affects diagnostic and treatment decisions in a significant number of patients with newly diagnosed head and neck tumors. The multidisciplinary approach to patient care may be particularly effective in managing malignant tumors, in which treatment plans are most frequently altered.
What structural length scales can be detected by the spectral variance of a microscope image

A spectroscopic microscope, configured to detect interference spectra of backscattered light in the far zone, quantifies the statistics of refractive-index (RI) distribution via the spectral variance (Σ˜2) of the acquired bright-field image. Its sensitivity to subtle structural changes within weakly scattering, label-free media at subdiffraction scales shows great promise in fields from material science to medical diagnostics. We further investigate the length-scale sensitivity of Σ˜ and reveal that, in theory, it can detect RI fluctuations at any spatial frequency whatsoever. Based on a 5% noise floor, Σ˜ detects scales from ∼22 to 200–700 nm (exact values depend on sample structure and thickness). In an example involving mass-density distribution characteristic of biological cell nuclei, we suggest the level of chromatin organization, which can be quantified via Σ˜.
Comparison of forward fuselage to Space Shuttle Orbiter flight pressure data to wind tunnel and analytical results in the hypersonic Mach number range

The Space Transportation System (STS) test program is unique in that it combines flight testing with operational flights using the first operational orbital vehicle (OV-102). The Space Shuttle Orbiter was instrumented to obtain various types of flight data. The instrumentation, designated Development Flight Instrumentation (DFI) includes pressure transducers, thermocouples, calorimeters, and accelerometers. A comparison is conducted between orbiter DFI forward fuselage flight pressure data obtained from OV-102 during the STS-1 reentry, and ground facility data obtained utilizing a 0.04 scale Orbiter forebody model. The comparisons are used to validate the existing experimental data base, optimize the pressure modeling technique, and make possible the refinement of error analysis relative to both. The obtained results indicate, in general, good agreement between flight and ground-based data.
Photoaging: Mechanisms and repair

Aging is a complex, multifactorial process resulting in several functional and esthetic changes in the skin. These changes result from intrinsic as well as extrinsic processes, such as ultraviolet radiation. Recent advances in skin biology have increased our understanding of skin homeostasis and the aging process, as well as the mechanisms by which ultraviolet radiation contributes to photoaging and cutaneous disease. These advances in skin biology have led to the development of a diversity of treatments aimed at preventing aging and rejuvenating the skin. The focus of this review is the mechanism of photoaging and the pathophysiology underlying the treatments specifically designed for its prevention and treatment. Learning objectives At the conclusion of this learning activity, participants should be familiar with the mechanism of photoaging, the treatments for photoaging, and the data that supports the use of these treatments.
Constitutive modeling of deformation and damage in superplastic materials

Abstract The superplastic deformation and cavitation damage characteristics of a modified aluminum alloy are investigated at a temperature range from 500 to 550°C. The baseline alloy is AA5083. Nominally this alloy contains about 4.5% Mg, 0.8% Mn, 0.2% Cr, 0.037% Si, 0.08% Fe and 0.025% Ti by weight. The experimental program consists of uniaxial tension tests and digital image analysis for measuring cavitation. The experiments reveal that evolution of damage is due to both nucleation and growth of voids. A viscoplastic model for describing deformation and damage in this alloy is developed based on a continuum mechanics framework. The model includes the effect of strain hardening, strain rate sensitivity, dynamic and static recovery, and nucleation and growth of voids. The model predictions compare well with the experimental results.
Surface-tension induced convection at reduced gravity

Fluid motions are induced by surface-tension gradients on the free surface of a liquid in a cylindrical container which is in free fall in a drop tower. Identical experiments are conducted in a normal gravitational environment. The motions in that case are due to natural convection. The ratio of surface-tension to buoyancy forces in the tests is of the order of 10,000 at reduced gravity conditions and 0.13 under normal gravity. In each case a two-way flow occurs throughout most of the liquid. Comparison of the results from the two types of experiments is made in order to indicate differences in the flow details.
DNA-PK: A dynamic enzyme in a versatile DSB repair pathway

DNA double stranded breaks (DSBs) are the most cytoxic DNA lesion as the inability to properly repair them can lead to genomic instability and tumorigenesis. The prominent DSB repair pathway in humans is non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ). In the simplest sense, NHEJ mediates the direct re-ligation of the broken DNA molecule. However, NHEJ is a complex and versatile process that can repair DSBs with a variety of damages and ends via the utilization of a significant number of proteins. In this review we will describe the important factors and mechanisms modulating NHEJ with emphasis given to the versatility of this repair process and the DNA-PK complex.
The crystal chemistry of silica-rich, alkali-deficient nepheline

Coarse crystals of an extremely silica-rich, potassium-deficient nepheline have been synthesized hydrothermally with albite. Electron microprobe analysis yielded the formula: □1.76Ko.24Na6.00Al6.24-Si9.76O32. A crystal structure analysis of this nepheline has revealed (1) a disordered Si-Al distribution, (2) full occupancy of the smaller cavity site by sodium atoms, and (3) the larger cavity is vacant except for the minor potassium content, with the size of this cavity being the same as when largely occupied with potassium atoms. In addition, the crystal structure of another nepheline prepared by alkali exchange in molten NaCl showed that when Na atoms replace the K atoms of the large cavity: (1) this cavity does not collapse around the smaller atoms, and therefore, (2) the sodium atoms occupy an offcenter position displaced by about 0.3 A from the cavity center in order to form a rather one-sided bonding configuration with some of the cavity wall oxygen atoms.
FEDERAL-STATE RELATIONS IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF SURFACE MINING POLICY

The federal Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 not only established national performance standards and permitting procedures for the coal industry, but also provided for stateprimacy. The principle of state primary is both simple and intuitively appealing: Because states do not have adequate resources to develop effective regulatory programs, the federal government would set up comprehensive procedures and criteria to guide the states in preparing their own plans. The obvious advantage of state primacy is that i t provides for flexibility in implementation. Ultimately, state primacy is an experiment in cooperative federalism, a sharing of authority and responsibility between the states and the federal government to insure both the general welfare and sensitivity to local conditions. The history of surface mining regulation is instructive because i t points out the pitfalls and promise of cooperative federalism as well as the critical role of the courts in making state primacy work.
An MDOE Assessment of Nozzle Vanes for High Bypass Ratio Jet Noise Reduction

The effect of airfoil-shaped vanes placed in the fan stream of a BPR 8 coannular nozzle model system on the resulting jet noise was investigated. The experiments used a Modern Design of Experiments approach to investigate the impact of a range of vane parameters on the noise reduction achieved at representative takeoff conditions. The experimental results showed that the installation of the vanes decreased low frequency noise radiation in the downstream peak-noise direction and increased high frequency noise in the upstream direction. Results also showed that improper selection of the vane configuration resulted in increased low frequency noise radiation in the upstream direction. Large angles of attack are shown to reduce noise near the peak jet noise angle and increase noise in the upstream direction. The MDOE analysis yields an optimum design that minimizes perceived noise levels. Limited data taken with a BPR 5 nozzle system showed that the vanes result in better effective perceived noise reduction for lower bypass ratio nozzles than for the BPR 8 model.
“Walking the Walk” With Teacher Education Candidates: Strategies for Promoting Active Engagement With Assigned Readings

Teacher educators can use active engagement strategies to help teacher candidates interact meaningfully with assigned readings for literacy methods courses. This approach to active engagement with required readings helps teacher candidates learn the content, concepts, and processes from text, and enables them to experience as learners the techniques, strategies, and processes advocated for use in K-12 classrooms. The authors believe that helping teacher candidates understand, value, and apply research-based practices in their own teaching is facilitated by modeling, application, and reflection on using such practices with their own reading and learning. The strategies described are •Alpha boxes •Making connections •Double-entry journals •Text coding •Teachers as readers Also provided are a rationale for each strategy, a description of how to implement the strategy with teacher candidates, an example, and application ideas for the strategy in K-12 classrooms.
EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE AND PHYSICAL IMPLICATIONS OF THE TIME EVOLUTION ALONG THE MASS ASYMMETRY MODE IN HEAVY ION REACTIONS

The complex experimental features associated with the mass or charge distributions, and with the angular distributions as a function of fragment mass or charge, are interpreted as evidence of an intermediate structure, or intermediate complex, evolving in time along the mass asymmetry mode. Strong circumstantial evidence suggests that this time evolution is diffusive in nature and can be described in terms of the Master Equation or the Fokker-Planck Equation. The experimental evidence of broad mass distributions for large ratios E/B, where E is the center of mass energy and B is the interaction barrier, and narrow mass distributions peaked at the projectile and target mass for small ratios E/B, is interpreted as due to an increasing lifetime of the complex with energy. For short lifetimes, the system has little time to evolve in mass asymmetry and gives rise to rather narrow distributions centered about the target and projectile mass. For long lifetimes the system undergoes extensive relaxation in mass asymmetry and gives rise to very broad mass distributions. Similarly the angular distributions seem to evolve from side peaked to forward peaked with increasing E/B. This is interpreted as due to a transition from a short lifetime-slow angular velocity regime whichmore » does not allow for orbiting beyond 0/sup 0/, to a long lifetime-large angular velocity regime which produces orbiting past 0/sup 0/. The evolution from side peaking to forward peaking in the same reaction as one moves away in Z from the projectile is interpreted as due to the time lag introduced by diffusion in the population of fragments farther removed in Z from the projectile. The variation of charge and angular distribution with the fragment kinetic energy allows one to connect the energy relaxation to the mass asymmetry relaxation. Theoretical calculations based on diffusion models allow one to fit mass and angular distributions as well as to extract transition probabilities and Fokker-Planck coefficients.« less
We Fall Down: The African American Experience of Coping With the Homicide of a Loved One

Rates of homicide among African Americans are much higher than those of other racial or ethnic groups. Research has demonstrated that homicide can be psychologically debilitating for surviving family members. Yet, exploring the experiences of homicide victims’ surviving loved ones has received little attention. This study examined the coping strategies of African American survivors of homicide. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 8 African American family members (ages 18-82) of homicide victims. Survivors were recruited from the Massachusetts Office of Victim Services and from homicide survivor support, school, and community groups throughout the New England area. Interviews were conducted using open-ended questions derived from coping, support network, grief, and bereavement literatures. Results indicate that the primary coping strategies utilized by African American survivors of homicide victims are spiritual coping and meaning making, maintaining a connection to the deceased, collective coping and caring for others, and concealment. Implications for research and practice are discussed.
Measuring unresolved surface features using imaging ellipsometric polarization signatures

It is well known that sub-wavelength structures can modify the polarization of incident light. Due to the coupling of electric fields at the sub-wavelength boundary, the responses to TE and TM polarized light are different. This effect has been intensively investigated in optical data storage [1, 2], metrology [3-6] and artificial dielectric synthesis [7, 8]. In optical metrology applications, this effect can be used as a sensitive measure of the sub-wavelength structures. In this summary, we report a measurement technique capable of measuring unresolved isolated features using a high resolution imaging ellipsometer. The imaging ellipsometer technique has been reported in details in a separate publication [9]. Illustrated in Fig. 1, a high numerical aperture (NA=0.8) objective is used in the setup. The high NA illumination gives rise to both a good ellipsometric signal and high spatial resolution. The transmission axes of the polarizer and the analyzer are aligned with the x-axis and y-axis, respectively. The sample is placed at the focal plane of the objective. A fiber bundle with a narrow band filter (10 nm bandwidth with central wavelength at 633 nm) is used as the illumination source to form an image on the CCD. The condenser collimates the light from each point from the source. Since individual points from the source in the field-of-view of the condenser subtend very small angles with respect to the optical axis, we can analyze each image point in the same way as the on-axis point. For a ray from the on-axis point entering the pupil at position (θ, ϕ), where θ is the corresponding incident angle on the sample of this ray after the lens and ϕ is the azimuth angular position from the x-axis, it can be shown that the power contributed from this ray on the detector is:
Gadolinium-Encapsulating Iron Oxide Nanoprobe as Activatable NMR/MRI Contrast Agent

Herein we report a novel gadolinium-encapsulating iron oxide nanoparticle-based activatable NMR/MRI nanoprobe. In our design, Gd-DTPA is encapsulated within the poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) polymer coating of a superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (IO-PAA), yielding a composite magnetic nanoprobe (IO-PAA-Gd-DTPA) with quenched longitudinal spin-lattice magnetic relaxation (T(1)). Upon release of the Gd-DTPA complex from the nanoprobe's polymeric coating in acidic media, an increase in the T(1) relaxation rate (1/T(1)) of the composite magnetic nanoprobe was observed, indicating a dequenching of the nanoprobe with a corresponding increase in the T(1)-weighted MRI signal. When a folate-conjugated nanoprobe was incubated in HeLa cells, a cancer cell line overexpressing folate receptors, an increase in the 1/T(1) signal was observed. This result suggests that, upon receptor-mediated internalization, the composite magnetic nanoprobe degraded within the cell's lysosome acidic (pH 5.0) environment, resulting in an intracellular release of Gd-DTPA complex with subsequent T(1) activation. In addition, when an anticancer drug (Taxol) was coencapsulated with the Gd-DTPA within the folate receptor targeting composite magnetic nanoprobe, the T(1) activation of the probe coincided with the rate of drug release and corresponding cytotoxic effect in cell culture studies. Taken together, these results suggest that our activatable T(1) nanoagent could be of great importance for the detection of acidic tumors and assessment of drug targeting and release by MRI.
Timing of decisions and the competitive firm under input price uncertainty

Abstract This paper studies the behavior of a competitive firm faced with input price uncertainty when the ex ante decision variable is output, not the quantities of the inputs. Highly unconventional results are obtained about the effects of uncertainty and of marginal increases in risk.
Implementing the Baumslag-Cannonito-Miller polycyclic quotient algorithm

This paper discusses the practical problems associated with developing a computerimplementation of an algorithm described by Baumslag, Cannonito, and Miller for computing polycyclic quotients of a finitely presented group. Attention is drawn to the connection with the method of Grobner bases and techniques for computing nilpotent quotients. Some experimentation with computing class-2 nilpotent quotients and metabelian polycyclic quotients is described.
The role of internal variables on the control of viscoelastic structures

Scientists have used internal variables to model time-dependent material behavior for many years. Since the 1980s they have been employed to predict transient response of structures that include viscoelastic materials. The potentially large number of extra states introduced by the internal variables can be problematic when designing control systems, so the purpose of this paper is to explore how internal variables affect control system design. Practical designs are based on output feedback of a limited number of the physical states, but this brings up the question of whether it is advantageous to recreate the full state vector (including internal states) using a standard observer. Internal variables based on Maxwell models are used to address observability and controllability as well as full- and partial-state feedback on a single-degree-of-freedom system. Comparisons are also made between complex-modulus and internal-variable representations of viscoelastic behavior.Copyright © 2002 by ASME
Rapid optical coherence tomography and recording functional scattering changes from activated frog retina

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has important potential advantages for fast functional neuroimaging. However, dynamic neuroimaging poses demanding requirements for fast and stable acquisition of optical scans. Optical phase modulators based on the electro-optic effect allow rapid phase modulation; however, applications to low-coherence tomography are limited by the optical dispersion of a broadband light source by the electro-optic crystal. We show that the optical dispersion can be theoretically estimated and experimentally compensated. With an electro-optic phase modulator-based, no-moving-parts OCT system, near-infrared scattering changes associated with neural activation were recorded from isolated frog retinas activated by visible light.
Even More than Life Itself: Beyond Complexity

This essay is an attempt to construct an artificial dialog loosely modeled after that sought by Robert Maynard Hutchins who was a significant influence on many of us including and especially Robert Rosen. The dialog is needed to counter the deep and devastating effects of Cartesian reductionism on today’s world. The success of such a dialog is made more probable thanks to the recent book by A. Louie. This book makes a rigorous basis for a new paradigm, the one pioneered by the late Robert Rosen. If we are to make such a paradigm shift happen, it has to be in the spirit of the dialog. The relationship between science, economics, technology and politics has to be openly recognized and dealt with. The message that Rosen sent to us has to be told outside small select circles of devotees. The situation has even been described by some as resembling a cult. This is no way for universal truths like these to be seen. The essay examines why this present situation has happened and identifies the systemic nature of the problem in terms of Rosen’s concepts about systems. The dialog involves works by George Lakoff, W. Brian Arthur, N. Katherine Hayles, Robert Reich and Dorion Sagan. These scholars each have their own approach to identifying the nature of the interacting systems that involve human activity and the importance of identifying levels of abstraction in analyzing systems. Pooling their insights into different facets of a complex system is very useful in constructing a model of the self referential system that humans and their technology have shaped. The role of the human component in the whole earth system is the goal of the analysis. The impact of the Cartesian reductionist paradigm on science and the related aspects of human activity are examined to establish an explanation for the isolation of Rosen’s paradigm. The possible way to proceed is examined in the conclusion.
The Equity Index Annuity: an examination of performance and regulatory concerns

Abstract The Equity Index Annuity (EIA) is a recent product development in the insurance industry. This paper details EIA design and interest crediting techniques, examines expected performance, and discusses possible regulatory concerns. Results indicate that the EIA is generally expected to perform better than a traditional fixed annuity for contract periods of at least five years, but is substantially below that of a similar direct equity purchase. EIA contracts are not appropriate for shorter-term investors when factors of risk and efficient markets are considered. The SEC is not currently regulating the EIA product, which should raise industry concern.
Future Applications : Gene Therapy

Gene therapy for brain disorders is one of the most promising frontiers in the practice of restorative neurosurgery. There are significant experimental gene therapy initiatives underway that have led to currently active clinical trials using direct intracerebral delivery of viral vectors, and these treatments have been reported as safe and well tolerated. In the future, other clinical trials will likely use viral vectors to transfer genes that bestow on recipient tissue a desired enzymatic or neurotrophic activity relevant to the treatment of other neurodegenerative diseases, stroke, and traumatic brain injury.
Status of silicon carbide (SiC) as a wide-bandgap semiconductor for high-temperature applications: A review

Silicon carbide (SiC), a material long known with potential for high-temperature, high-power, high-frequency, and radiation hardened applications, has emerged as the most mature of the wide-bandgap (2.0 eV ≲ Eg ≲ 7.0 eV) semiconductors since the release of commercial 6HSiC bulk substrates in 1991 and 4HSiC substrates in 1994. Following a brief introduction to SiC material properties, the status of SiC in terms of bulk crystal growth, unit device fabrication processes, device performance, circuits and sensors is discussed. Emphasis is placed upon demonstrated high-temperature applications, such as power transistors and rectifiers, turbine engine combustion monitoring, temperature sensors, analog and digital circuitry, flame detectors, and accelerometers. While individual device performances have been impressive (e.g. 4HSiC MESFETs with fmax of 42 GHz and over 2.8 W mm−1 power density; 4HSiC static induction transistors with 225 W power output at 600 MHz, 47% power added efficiency (PAE), and 200 V forward blocking voltage), material defects in SiC, in particular micropipe defects, remain the primary impediment to wide-spread application in commercial markets. Micropipe defect densities have been reduced from near the 1000 cm−2 order of magnitude in 1992 to 3.5 cm−2 at the research level in 1995.